Police guard Dalit groom on horse

For the first time after independence in Pathredi village of Jaipur district, a Dalit groom rode a horse in his marriage procession, though in presence of heavy police force.

It was the first instance when a Dalit family defied age-old customs and performed the marriage ceremony on the lines of upper caste families in the village. 

“More than 50 police personnel were deputed around the residence of the Dalit family. The policemen accompanied the groom during the marriage procession,” said R L Yadav, a police official at Kotputli police station.

The marriage was solemnised peacefully on Thursday, he added.  
Earlier, a delegation of Ambedkar Vichar Manch gave a memorandum to the Additional District Magistrate and demanded police protection to perform the marriage.

Family members were apprehensive and expected opposition from upper caste villagers. Later, the administration ordered police to provide security to the family and ensure a peaceful marriage ceremony.

“In Rajasthan, Dalits are still deprived of their basic rights. In order to avoid any untoward incident, we informed the local administration that a Dalit groom will ride a horse during his marriage procession and it may invite the wrath of upper  community,” said Anil Regar, the 26-year-old groom.

“All ceremonies have been performed peaceful and surprisingly many people from upper castes also supported us,” he added.

Regar said his community leaders along with local administration held a joint meeting with leaders and people from the upper castes.

Most extended their full support but a few people raised objections.
“Baring a few people, everyone was supportive. It was the first instance in the village when any Dalit groom rode a horse in a marriage procession,” said Anil.

Most villagers including those from the upper caste attended the marriage on Thursday and presented a unique example of social harmony in Pathredi village.