Karnataka MP from Chitradurga, A. Narayanaswamy, was denied entry in a village in Pavagada taluk of Tumakuru district. According to multiple reports, he was told that he was a member of the dalit community, and that he would not be allowed entry.
Speaking to The Hindu, the BJP MP confirmed the incident. “I was deeply pained I was not allowed into the Gollarahatti as I am a Dalit. I had gone to listen to their problems and provide them housing and other basic amenities, as they have been living in huts for several years without amenities,” he told the publication.
During his visit, Narayanaswamy was accompanied by the representatives from pharma giant Biocon and hospital Narayana Hrudayalaya. Narayanaswamy said he did not want to enter the village with the help of the police. "I want to change their mindset. I don't want to file a case against them. Untouchability is a reality. Change of heart is important. Laws can't change that," he said, reported News18.
