Chennai, April 1st, 2023: Ambedkar Sena’s National women wing President, Fathima Fida, has expressed her outrage after a tribal family was denied entry to Rohini Movie hall in Chennai.
The incident occurred when the tribal family, who had purchased tickets for a movie at Rohini theatre, were prevented from entering the hall by the staff. The family, consisting of a mother, father, and their two children, were reportedly told that their appearance was not suitable for the theatre’s dress code policy.
Fathima Fida, who was present at the theatre, immediately intervened and demanded an explanation from the staff. Despite her repeated protests, the staff refused to budge from their stance, leaving the tribal family in a state of humiliation and distress.
“This is a clear case of discrimination against a particular community. The theatre’s dress code policy is nothing but a thinly veiled attempt to exclude people from marginalized communities. It is unacceptable and against the spirit of our constitution,” Fathima Fida said in a statement.
Fida has called for an immediate ban on Rohini Movie hall until the theatre management issues a public apology and revokes its discriminatory dress code policy. She has also urged the Tamil Nadu government to take action against such practices and ensure that all citizens have equal access to public spaces.
The incident has sparked outrage on social media, with many people condemning the theatre’s discriminatory policy. People from different walks of life have come forward in support of the tribal family, demanding justice for them.
The incident has also reignited the debate around the need for a comprehensive anti-discrimination law in the country. Many activists and civil society organizations have long been demanding the enactment of such a law to protect the rights of marginalized communities.
It remains to be seen what action the theatre management and the Tamil Nadu government will take in response to Fathima Fida’s demand. However, the incident has once again brought to the fore the urgent need for greater sensitivity and inclusivity in our public spaces.