It goes without saying that caste systems, based on segregation and exclusion, contradict the universal principles of non-‐discrimination. The remains of the caste system can still be seen in the way dalits and lower classes are treated by upper class Hindus. Practice of having separate tumblers for caste Hindus and Dalits is still in vogue in some villages in Madurai.
A notice has been served to 463 teashops spread across 149 villages in the district by the Madurai police against the practice of double-tumbler system. The owners of the teashops have been warned of stringent action if discrimination is continued against Dalits and Scheduled Tribes.
As per the details, a study conducted by Evidence, a human rights organisation, discovered that the double-tumbler system was prevalent in 463 teashops where Dalits and STs were given use-and-throw plastic cups while the Caste Hindus were served in steel or glass cups. The organization submitted a report to the Additional Director-General of Police, State Human Rights and Social Justice Wing, which was followed by the ban on practice of double tumbler system by the police.
The fact-finding team also revealed many more shocking facts for example; it found that in many villages, chairs or benches were meant for use only by upper caste people. In a few villages, Dalits have to leave their slippers at home or at a distance before going to the teashop.