Introduction
Untouchability is a deep-rooted social problem in India, emerging from the rigid caste
system. It denies millions of people basic human dignity and equal rights.
Untouchability refers to caste-based discrimination, mainly against Dalits, who are
considered impure by upper castes.
It prevents people from participating in society, accessing education, and living with
dignity.
Although banned by law, untouchability still exists in many forms across India.
The aim of this project is to understand its origin, impact, and efforts made for its
eradication.
Historical Background
The practice of untouchability goes back thousands of years, especially during the later
Vedic period. It developed due to occupational divisions and religious ideas.
In ancient India, certain occupations like cleaning, leather work, and manual scavenging
were considered impure.
People doing these jobs were excluded from mainstream society and called
untouchables.
Religious texts and customs justified their exclusion and labeled them as 'polluting'.
This resulted in a system of inhuman treatment that lasted for generations.
Caste System in India
The caste system classified people into groups based on birth and occupation. It formed the
foundation of untouchability.
Indian society was traditionally divided into four varnas: Brahmins, Kshatriyas,
Vaishyas, and Shudras.
Dalits, also called 'Avarnas,' were placed outside this system and treated as
untouchables.
One’s caste determined their job, lifestyle, social status, and rights.
The system left Dalits powerless, voiceless, and vulnerable to abuse.
Life of Untouchables in Ancient India
The daily life of untouchables in ancient times was full of suffering, social rejection, and
denial of basic rights.
They were forced to live on the outskirts of villages in separate colonies.
Access to temples, schools, wells, and markets was strictly forbidden.
They could not eat with or even walk near upper-caste people.
Their children were denied education and forced into the same 'unclean' work.
Social Discrimination and Practices
Untouchability was not just about rejection—it was enforced through cruel customs,
isolation, and public humiliation.
Dalits had to use separate utensils and sit separately in schools and public places.
Even their shadows were considered polluting by the upper castes.
They were not allowed to wear clean clothes, ride horses, or perform religious rituals.
Many were subjected to verbal abuse, beatings, and forced labor.
Dalit Voices and Resistance
Despite the oppression, several Dalits and reformers raised their voices against the cruel
system.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar led the movement for Dalit rights, demanding education and legal
reforms.
Jyotirao Phule opened schools for Dalits and promoted gender and caste equality.
Periyar in South India fought against Brahminical domination and caste-based injustice.
These leaders gave Dalits the confidence to demand equality and justice.
Bhakti and Sufi Movements
Bhakti and Sufi saints preached against caste discrimination and spread the idea of equality
before God.
Bhakti saints like Kabir, Ravidas, and Tukaram rejected caste divisions in their poetry
and teachings.
They emphasized that love and devotion to God were more important than birth or
caste.
Sufi saints welcomed people of all castes and religions to their shrines.
These movements inspired people to rise above caste-based hate.
