HC Deb 15 June 1899 vol 72 cc1176-7
SIR MANCHERJEE BHOWNAGGREE (Bethnal Green, N.E.)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for India whether he has received any official particulars regarding the riots which took place in the Tinnevelli district of Madras last Saturday; and, if so, will he state the same to the House; whether he has received any confirmation of the statement that 100 murders have been committed and whole villages sacked; and what steps are taken to quell the disturbances.

THE SECRETARY or STATE FOR INDIA (Lord G. HAMILTON,) Middlesex, Ealing

In reply to my hon. friend's question I will read the telegram which I have to-day received from the Governor of Madras— Tinnevelli riots due to dispute between Shanars on the one hand and Maravars on the other, regarding religious privileges of Shanars. Serious riots 6th June, at Sivakasi. Ten Shanars and ten Maravars killed, numerous houses burnt. Disturbance spread to Madura District to some extent, and serious riot reported from Shencottah in Travancore. Seventy persons wounded. Six companies of native troops called out. European magistracy and police strengthened. Active steps being taken to quell disturbances and punish rioters. I may add that the Shanars and Maravars are castes of low social position, whose occupations and manner of life are such as might readily lead to rioting and fighting. A similar encounter took place between the same two castes about four years ago.

MR. DILLON (Mayo, E.)

Will the noble Lord, in view of what took place at Omdurman the other day, consider the desirability of levelling the temples and digging up the remains of the saints—

*MR. SPEAKER

Order, order.