Satnamis Protest : Chhattisgarh
A large mob from the Satnami community in Chhattisgarh’s Baloda Bazar district attacked the Superintendence of Police (SP) office, over the alleged desecration of a ‘jaitkhamb’ (victory pillar, a sacred structure for the Satnami community).
- Satnami Community is the largest Scheduled Caste (SC) community, including peasants, artisans, and untouchables in Chhattisgarh.
- It was founded by Guru Ghasidas, a 19th-century saint, who preached monotheism, believing in one God called Satnam “Truthful Name” and social equality.
- They’ve faced challenges in securing land rights, obtaining fair employment opportunities, and accessing education and healthcare encountered social prejudice and haven’t had a strong voice in government.
- The Chhattisgarh government renamed a section of the Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve to Guru Ghasidas National Park in his honour.
