A wedding celebration in Gujarat’s Patan district descended into violence this week after a Dalit groom was allegedly attacked for leading his procession on horseback, a practice that continues to trigger caste-based hostility in parts of the state.
The incident occurred on Monday in Chandrumana village, when Vishal Chavda, a young man from the Dalit community, set out for his wedding in a traditional varghodo. According to eyewitnesses, the celebrations were abruptly halted when a group of men from the dominant community confronted the procession, objecting to the groom riding a horse through the village.
According to media reports, what began as verbal opposition quickly escalated. Witnesses said the group, allegedly armed with swords, threatened the groom and assaulted members of the wedding party. Slurs were reportedly hurled at Vishal, questioning his right to follow a custom that the attackers claimed was reserved for upper castes. The music stopped, guests scattered, and the wedding procession was forced to halt amid fear and chaos.
Police officials have been quoted saying that an FIR has been registered in connection with the incident and additional security was deployed in the village to prevent further unrest. While law enforcement action has been initiated, the emotional impact on the groom and his family has been severe. “This was supposed to be the happiest day of our lives,” a relative said. “Instead, it became a moment of humiliation and terror.”
The Patan incident has once again brought attention to a troubling pattern in Gujarat, where Dalit grooms riding horses during wedding processions have repeatedly faced resistance and violence. Despite legal protections under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, such attacks continue to be reported from different districts.
In February 2024, a Dalit groom named Vikas Chavda was allegedly pulled off his horse and slapped by four men in Chadasana village of Gandhinagar district. Earlier, in 2020, a wedding procession involving an Army jawan was reportedly pelted with stones in another part of the state because the groom was riding a mare.
Social activists say these incidents reflect deep-rooted social hierarchies that remain entrenched in rural areas. “Horse riding during a wedding has become a symbol of equality for Dalits, and that is precisely why it is resisted,” said a rights activist. “The violence is meant to enforce an unwritten rule about who is allowed to be visible and dignified in public spaces.”
As investigations continue in the Chandrumana case, calls are growing for stricter enforcement of existing laws and greater accountability to ensure that caste-based discrimination does not rob families of moments meant for joy and celebration.
Also Read: Gujarat: Dalit Youth Attacked In Botad, Jignesh Mevani Alleges ‘Upper Caste Goons’ Behind ‘Atrocity’ https://www.vibesofindia.com/jignesh-mevani-alleges-upper-caste-goons-after-a-dalit-youth-was-attacked-in-botad-gujarat/
