Caste Row Resolved: Unity Restored at Odisha Anganwadi

A caste dispute in Nuagaon village, Odisha, over a Dalit anganwadi helper concluded after three months. Upper caste children returned to the center, accepting meals prepared by Sharmistha Sethy. The resolution came amid nationwide attention, with officials emphasizing reconciliation and a drive for children's rights awareness.

A prolonged three-month caste dispute at an anganwadi center in Nuagaon village of Odisha's Kendrapara district ended as upper caste children resumed attending the facility, accepting meals cooked by Sharmistha Sethy, a Dalit helper.

The impasse began after Sethy's appointment, leading to the center's closure from November 21, 2022. This sparked nationwide outrage, even reaching the Indian Parliament, where opposition leaders highlighted workplace caste discrimination.

Officials, including Kendrapara CDPO Dipali Mishra and Rajnagar MLA Dhruba Charan Sahoo, were present to support the children's return. Villagers are now urged to maintain harmony, with authorities planning awareness drives to protect children's rights.

(With inputs from agencies.)