Kathmandu, July 30: Dalit community leaders have demanded stern action against the culprits involved in a case of caste-based discrimination in Bajhang.

While speaking at a press meet today, the leaders expressed their serious concern over the demolition of an under-construction house belonging to a Dalit individual by a group of non-Dalits at Syaldhunga of Bitthadchir rural municipality-7. The incident occurred on July 26.

According to reports, a group of over 40 non-Dalits allegedly demolished the house being constructed by Pudke Okhada, claiming that he was not allowed to build the structure on the land owned by individuals from the ‘Brahman’ caste.

It has been claimed that during the incident, the group caused damage to property worth Rs 1.2 million, engaged in verbal abuse, physical assault, and inflicted damage on the property.

The leaders at the program also brought the government’s attention to another case of discrimination, wherein a couple (Saraswoti Khadka of Gauriganga municipality-7 in Kailali and Suresh Bishwakarma of Godavari municipality-9) faced discrimination due to an inter-caste marriage.

Former Minister of State and UML central member Asha BK emphasized that cases of caste-based discrimination should not be politicized and should be dealt with through legal means.

CPN (UM) central leader Afilal Okheda highlighted that the entire Dalit community continues to face caste-based discrimination, demanding action against all those involved in the crime in accordance with the Caste-based Discrimination and Untouchability (Offence and Punishment) Act- 2068 BS (2011).