Tamil Nadu Ordered to Eliminate Caste Discrimination in Water Access by High Court

The Madras High Court has taken decisive steps to address caste-based discrimination related to water access, a critical issue concerning social inequality. The court’s ruling, stemming from a case in Tamil Nadu’s Tenkasi district, mandates statewide implementation to ensure equal access to water resources. The case was initiated by a bail petition filed by an elderly woman from the Scheduled Caste community, who reported denied water access in Thalaivankottai village. The court expressed strong disapproval, calling the situation “pathetic and surprising.” The court underscored that access to clean drinking water is a fundamental right. The court had previously instructed the Tenkasi District Collector to ensure that SC residents were not made to wait for water. A compliance report showed the installation of new public taps and the formation of a monitoring committee. Justice Manjula also pointed out that authorities should not wait for official complaints and that caste-based discrimination often goes unreported. All officials in Tamil Nadu are required to replicate the practices of Thalaivankottai within three weeks. The case is scheduled to be heard again on August 21.