Karnataka Government Opens Barber Shop in Gadag to Address Dalit Service Denial

In Shingatalur village, Karnataka, a barber shop was established after Dalit residents faced denial of haircut and shaving services by upper-caste barbers, particularly during a specific annual period linked to local customs. The Social Welfare Department, Taluk administration, Taluk panchayat, Dalit organizations, and the Shivasharana Hadapada Appanna community collaborated to open the shop under an untouchability eradication and social harmony program. The initiative aims to ensure equal access to basic services and promote social equality, addressing petitions from affected residents.