Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi on Monday expressed serious concern over the rising crimes against Dalits in the state, particularly targeting Dalit women, and questioned the effectiveness of the justice system and education standards in uplifting marginalized communities. He was speaking at the birth anniversary celebrations of Dr B.R. Ambedkar, the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, held at Raj Bhavan.Highlighting worrying statistics, Governor Ravi said, “In 2020, there were 12,174 cases of crimes against Dalits reported in Tamil Nadu. In the next two years, the number rose to 18,000 — a 50% increase. These are not political statements; these are facts.”
Focusing on crimes against Dalit women, he said such incidents were steadily increasing, yet the conviction rate in Tamil Nadu was less than half the national average. “How long should Dalits wait for justice? How long will the promises made by the Constitution remain unfulfilled?” he asked pointedly.
The Governor also took a critical view of the educational outcomes for Dalit students in government schools. “More than half of high school students from the Dalit community are unable to read a book meant for Class 2. In several cases, they cannot even identify a two-digit number between 11 and 99,” he said.
He expressed concern over students being promoted despite poor foundational skills and being admitted into colleges without being equipped for real-world challenges. “Most government schools declare 100% results in board exams. These students then join government colleges and receive Rs 1,000 per month. But how long will this amount help them?” he asked.
Ravi further questioned the employability of such students, stating, “Who will offer jobs to those who lack industry-required skills or even basic soft skills?”
In a strongly worded address, the Governor emphasized the need for real reform rather than cosmetic success, and urged stakeholders to ensure that the constitutional vision of justice, equality, and dignity for Dalits is translated into reality.