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Understanding Untouchability and Dalit Rights

The document discusses the historical context and challenges faced by untouchables, now known as Dalits, in the Indian caste system, highlighting their forced segregation and discrimination. It also outlines the contributions of key leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, B.R. Ambedkar, and Periyar in advocating for the rights and dignity of Dalits. Efforts have been made to uplift and integrate Dalits into society, promoting social equality and justice.

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30 views9 pages

Understanding Untouchability and Dalit Rights

The document discusses the historical context and challenges faced by untouchables, now known as Dalits, in the Indian caste system, highlighting their forced segregation and discrimination. It also outlines the contributions of key leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, B.R. Ambedkar, and Periyar in advocating for the rights and dignity of Dalits. Efforts have been made to uplift and integrate Dalits into society, promoting social equality and justice.

Uploaded by

chawlagunisha10
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Untouchability

Gunisha C h a w l a
Table of contents
01 Who were the
untouchables?
04 Mahatma Gandhi
02 Problems they faced 05 Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
03 Pictures of leaders 06 Periyar
Who were the
untouchables?
Untouchables, now referred to as Dalits,
were historically at the lowest level of the
Indian caste system. They were called
"untouchables" because they were seen
as impure and were often forced into jobs
considered "dirty" or "polluting," like
cleaning streets, handling dead animals,
and other menial tasks. This labeling led
to severe discrimination, as they were
forbidden from entering temples, using
public wells, and mixing with people from
higher castes. The term "untouchable" has
since been rejected, and efforts have
been made to uplift and integrate Dalits
into society with equal rights and respect.
l e m s t h e y f a c e d
The pr o b e m e d is c ri m in a tio n
li ts, fa c e d e x t r
a b le s , o r D a liv e in
Untouch . T h e y w e r e fo r c e d t o
ip s in d a i ly li f e o l s ,
and hard sh te m p le s , s c h o
n ie d a c c e s s t o
e d a r e a s , d e n to
segregat n d w e re oft e n f o rb i d d e
p u b li c w e lls , a a ny
and ev e n e r c a s te s . M
e o p le fr o m h igh
o r c o m e n e a r p i t h n o
touch y i n g , m e nia l j o b s w
f in e d t o lo w - p a t
wer e c o n m is t r e a t m e n
ia l m o b i li t y . T his
rt u n i tie s fo r s oc t y a n d
oppo d a c y c le o f p o v e r
e m a n d cr e a te
isola te d t h u lt f o r t h e m to
in c re d ib ly d if fic
s i o n , m a k in g it s .
oppre s t he ir c o n d i ti o n
y o r im p ro v e
live with dignit
The Leaders

Mahatma Gandhi B.R. Ambedkar E.V. Ramaswamy Naicker


(Periyar)
Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi advocated for the rights of untouchables, whom he
called "Harijans" or "children of God." He campaigned for
their social equality and access to public spaces, aiming to
eliminate untouchability through social reform and
upliftment within the Hindu fold. He promoted inclusive
practices, encouraging society to recognize the dignity of all
people.
B.R. Ambedkar
Ambedkar, himself a Dalit, fought tirelessly against caste discrimination and
worked to uplift the untouchables by emphasizing education, equality, and
social justice. His advocacy led to legal protections in the Indian Constitution,
ensuring rights and dignity for marginalized communities. He also encouraged
Dalits to embrace Buddhism to escape caste-based discrimination.
E.V. Ramaswamy
Naicker (Periyar)
Periyar was a social reformer from South India who
strongly opposed the caste system and
untouchability. He led movements to promote self-
respect and equal rights for the oppressed,
encouraging people to break free from caste-based
oppression and challenge religious orthodoxy. His
Self-Respect Movement empowered Dalits to resist
caste inequalities and demand equal treatment.
Thank
you

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