outcaste

Outcaste is a term historically used in societies with rigid social hierarchies to describe individuals or groups who are outside the established caste system. These individuals are often considered to be impure or ritually polluted, and are subjected to discrimination and social exclusion. The specific groups designated as outcaste vary depending on the region and the specific social structure. In India, the term "Dalit" is now preferred by many of these communities, meaning "oppressed" or "broken," and it reflects their ongoing struggle for equality and social justice.

The concept of outcaste status is characterized by a lack of social mobility and severe restrictions on interaction with higher castes. Outcastes may be barred from participating in religious ceremonies, using public resources, and even living in the same villages as caste Hindus. Their traditional occupations were often those considered ritually unclean, such as sweeping, scavenging, or handling dead bodies. This social stratification has led to centuries of oppression and marginalization.

While the caste system and the designation of outcastes have been legally abolished in many countries, including India, the social and economic consequences of this historical discrimination persist. Efforts to address these inequalities include affirmative action policies, legal protections against discrimination, and social reform movements aimed at fostering greater inclusivity and challenging deeply ingrained prejudices. The term "outcaste" itself is increasingly seen as pejorative, with terms like Dalit being embraced by the communities themselves.