Tamil Nadu Cherakulavellalar Sangam assembly meeting in Pollachi criticizes lack of educational and employment benefits despite community's inclusion in backward class list.
Coimbatore: The Tamil Nadu Cherakulavellalar Sangam held its 75th assembly meeting in Pollachi, coinciding with the 94th Gurupuja worship festival of Cheraman Perumal Nayanar. The event, which took place at a private wedding hall on Pollachi-Udumalpet Road, saw a large gathering of community members and officials from various districts including Coimbatore, Tirupur, and Erode.
The assembly meeting began with a cultural program featuring Valli Kummiyattam, a traditional dance performance by women of the Cherakula community. The performance, depicting the marriage of Lord Murugan and Valli, aimed to create awareness among the younger generation about their cultural heritage.
Following the meeting, N.S. Mani, the state vice-president of the association, spoke to reporters. He expressed disappointment that despite the community's inclusion in the backward class list based on Justice Mohan Commission's recommendation after years of struggle, they have not received any benefits in education or employment.
Mani stated, "The Cherakulavellalar community remains in a backward state due to the lack of promised benefits. We urge both the central and state governments to take immediate action to provide priority in education and employment opportunities for our community members."
The association's leadership emphasized that the inclusion in the backward class list alone is not sufficient. They demand tangible benefits to uplift the community from its current socio-economic condition. The meeting concluded with a resolution to continue their efforts to secure the rightful benefits for the Cherakulavellalar community.