• Dr.VENKATESHA

The module begins by analysing the notion of Dalit and the origin of untouchability. It tries to discuss the factors responsible for the rise of the Dalit movement in India. A historical overview of these movements is also done to appreciate the social reality that gave rise to these movements in different parts of the country. The module particularly discusses the contributions of B. R. Ambedkar and other leaders in shaping the future contours of such movement. Finally, it tries to reflect on the issues of the backward class movements in the Indian context.

It is widely known that traditional Indian society was based on varna and jati. Though this traditional system has undergone many changes over a period of time, caste continues to be a powerful institution in our socio-economic, religious and political life. In this system, Dalits were considered as impure and this resulted in untouchability towards them. They were assigned the lowest position in the caste hierarchy based on ritual purity and occupation. Dalits are oppressed throughout the recorded history of India. They were predestined to do some polluting occupations which were considered as impure in the society, for example, disposing dead bodies, leather work, cleaning toilets and sewage etc. Human Rights Watch in its report (1999) termed the caste system of India as a hidden apartheid. In this system, the entire village in many Indian rural societies remain completely segregated by caste. Under such a condition, it is often argued that the national institutions and constitutional protections have so far served only to mask the social realities of discrimination and violence faced by these living below poverty line. The Dalits continue to experience discrimination and deprivation despite several initiatives and efforts.

"Dalit Movement and Backward Class Assertions in India", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.6, Issue 2, page no.593-603, February-2019, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR1902G81.pdf

"Dalit Movement and Backward Class Assertions in India", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.6, Issue 2, page no. pp593-603, February-2019, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR1902G81.pdf