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‘You are SC? Then stand there’: BJP MLA discriminates against Dalit sarpanch in NDA-ruled Andhra

While most condemned this act, calling it an open display of untouchability, others called for a criminal case against the leaders on stage.

Saicharan Sana

Published Jun 19, 2025 | 11:28 AM ⚊ Updated Jun 19, 2025 | 4:22 PM

Adoni MLA Parthasarathi caught on tape allegedly discriminating against SC Sarpanch.

Adoni MLA Parthasarathi caught on tape allegedly discriminating against SC Sarpanch. (Screengrab)

Synopsis: A viral video from Andhra Pradesh’s Adoni shows BJP MLA Parthasarathi allegedly humiliating a Dalit sarpanch by refusing him access to the stage upon learning his caste. The incident sparked outrage, with people demanding legal action. Social media erupted, calling it an open display of untouchability and questioning the silence of political leaders.

A disturbing video from Kurnool’s Adoni constituency has triggered a wave of outrage across Andhra Pradesh. Dated to 16 June, the footage shows BJP MLA Parthasarathi allegedly humiliating a Dalit sarpanch during a public meeting.

As the sarpanch hesitates to join the MLA on stage, Parthasarathi can be heard asking about his identity. Upon learning that he belongs to a Scheduled Caste, the MLA instructs him to remain below the stage — a moment viewed as a blatant display of caste-based discrimination.

The clip has since gone viral, drawing sharp condemnation on social media.

‘Come and stand here, then’

In the video, which is now going viral on social media, Adoni MLA Parthasarathi can be seen speaking at a public meeting in his constituency in Kurnool. He is explaining the BJP’s work and positing that the Union government transfers funds to Sarpanchs, calling on the local Sarpanch.

“Hey Sarpanch, you come here, why are you standing there,” the MLA can be seen asking. Noticing that the Sarpanch was reluctant to join the Legislator on stage, he inquired further. “Is he a Christian?” he can be heard asking the TDP member next to him. “He is an SC, sir,” she replied, repeating herself multiple times.

After this, the Parthasarathi and the TDP leader can both be seen pointing towards the bottom of the stage, right in front of them, indicating the Sarpanch to stand there. “Okay, come and stand here then,” he directed the Sarpanch who complied.

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‘Open display of untouchability’

As the video spread online, it attracted criticism from numerous citizens. While most condemned this act, calling it an open display of untouchability, others called for a criminal case against the leaders on stage.

The criticism also took on the BJP’s ideology, calling it inherently biased against Dalits.

“This is so stupid. MLA there should have warned other lady and called that guy on to stage. Now this is true SC ST atrocity case. Can state govt book case on this discrimination act by TDP and BJP leaders? (sic.)” a user under the handle @Andhrawatchdog posted to X.

“An elected Dalit sarpanch was publicly insulted by MLA Parthasarathi — not for his actions, but for his caste. This is the India envisioned by Manu. This is the ‘glorious’ India that Manu dreamed of. Even in 2025, casteism still thrives — silent, systemic, and shameful. We can build smart cities and powerful rockets, but if we can’t treat every Indian with equal dignity, then we are failing as a nation,” another user, Veenu Kumar, a self-proclaimed citizen journalist, posted to X.

Even The Dalit Voice, a group which campaigns for human rights took issue with the incident stating that “MLA Parthasarathi publicly humiliated a Dalit sarpanch because of his caste.”

With outrage building online, it remains to be seen how the state will respond to the incident.

(Edited by Sumavarsha)

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