Before independence Dalits were not allowed to enter and worship in temples. This scenario changed after independence however there are still some places where Dalits are not allowed to worship.  

Mariamman temple was one such place. Dalits at Panthapuli village in Tirunelveli district entered the Kannanallur Mariamman temple on Wednesday with the help of local authorities. This temple was closed for nearly 10 years due to a conflict between Dalits and upper castes. This victory is the symbol of the retaliation of Dalits against the tradition made by upper castes.  

G Prakash, collector, Tirunelveli said: "We have now facilitated Dalits to enter this temple. We spoke to both parties. If we find there can be any trouble in the area, we will take necessary action."

Local authorities are making efforts to bring this temple under the Hindu Rights and Charitable Endowments Board, a government body that controls temples across Tamil Nadu.