The shadows of the Devadasi system refuse to fade, as the National Federation of Indian Women (NFIW) Karnataka challenges the state government’s handling of a critical resurvey. President Jyoti A. led the charge, demanding transparency and completion amid allegations of gross mismanagement.
This cultural curse dedicated pubescent girls to deities, evolving into rampant abuse of marginalized women. Legally outlawed, it persists covertly. The February report by Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar to CM Siddaramaiah revealed only 23,395 former Devadasis, halving prior figures without justification.
No committee convened to address grievances, Jyoti noted, deeming the survey unacceptable for sidelining the oppressed. Grassroots insights show unprocessed names, irregular meetings, and awareness gaps. Documentation hurdles and departmental apathy compound the issues, per secretary K. Renuka.
Renuka stressed ongoing risks necessitate ageless surveys, a point repeatedly ignored. Member Shekamma detailed eyewitness accounts of list tampering—ineligible women added, deserving ones ousted. NFIW calls for probes and withholding rehabilitation benefits until rectified.
As Karnataka grapples with this legacy, NFIW’s intervention highlights the moral imperative for meticulous efforts. True rehabilitation hinges on accurate identification, promising dignity and support to survivors long denied justice.