This Article is From Aug 08, 2010

Gypsies face discrimination at Chennai multiplex

Chennai: Every textbook brought out by the Tamil Nadu state education board has following words on the front page - untouchability is a sin, untouchability is a crime, untouchability is inhuman. But the management of a multiplex in Chennai does not seem to have learnt that lesson.

The members of Narikuravar community have to face the scourge when they went to the multiplex.

The bunch of gypsies hailing from Tirupathur in Vellore district were stopped from watching a movie with their children - and the reason they gave for this is quite appalling.

"They refused to let us in. They said we're not civilised because we're not dressed in pants and shirts. They said only those who wear pants and shirts will be allowed inside," said Vijaya, a Narikuravar.

And if that was not shocking enough, the police had to intervene to get them into the multiplex. And even then, they weren't able to get a proper seat.

The management is unwilling to take up the blame, calling this a small issue being blown up by the media.

"This is a small matter... you're blowing it out of proportion. It's no big deal," said Rajendran, Administrative Officer, Devi Theatre.

It might not be a big deal, but those who are told repeatedly that they're indecent and unfit to mix with 'normal' people, it's definitely much more than a non-issue.

"This is a clear case of unctouchability. Already the community is struggling as they're not getting the ST status from the government," said Radhakrishan, an advocate.

This eight member gang comes to Chennai for a week every month to sell their goods - and a small break from their work on a Saturday morning has turned into an hour of humiliation.
.