Dalits

Dalits are a collective term for groups in South Asia historically subjected to caste-based discrimination and social exclusion. In India, Dalits are communities officially designated as the Scheduled Castes in the Constitution and are commonly referred to as Dalits by activists and scholars. The term is also used in Nepal and by diaspora communities to describe similar historically marginalized groups.

In traditional Hindu society, Dalits occupied tasks deemed ritually impure and were barred from full participation in religious and social life. They faced segregation, limited access to education, and discrimination in housing and public spaces. Beginning in the 20th century, social reform movements, political organizing, and legal measures sought to dismantle caste hierarchies and expand rights for Dalits.

Legal protections include constitutional guarantees against caste-based discrimination and the abolition of untouchability (including Articles 15 and 17). The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act provides penalties for offences against Dalits. The Indian state grants affirmative action in education, employment, and political representation for Scheduled Castes. Dalit rights movements, literature, and political leaders—most notably B. R. Ambedkar—have been influential in advancing social reform and fighting violence against Dalits.

Dalits remain a diverse and populous group with varying social and economic statuses across regions. Even where legal protections exist, caste-based violence and unequal access to resources persist, motivating ongoing advocacy for rights, inclusion, and social reform.