Struggling Against the Caste-based Inequalities: A Study of Dalits in Devisthan VDC, Baglung, Nepal

Abstract

This thesis attempts to examine the struggle of Dalit (untouchable) people against the caste-based inequalities in post-conflict Nepal. The objective of this research is to bring forth the Dalits’ voice against the caste-based inequality and their subtle experiences on the way to struggle. It analyses the ongoing efforts of Dalit Movement and its impact on achieving equality, freedom and social justice. To meet the goal of these objectives, the study draws fourteen qualitative interviews with the members of Dalit community. In addition, the study applies the concepts of subalternity and empowerment in order to analyse the Dalits’ struggle.

The study findings indicate that caste-based discrimination is the root cause of Dalits’ struggle. Dalits are still facing social problems owing to stigma of untouchable low caste despite the constitutional provisions against the caste-based discrimination. Though the continuous struggle of Dalit people along with their involvement in Maoist’s insurgency has played vital role to make them aware of their access opportunities and social rights, it has not brought fundamental change in their socio-political status.

Analytically, the study seeks to provide a theme of social transformation through the socio-political struggle. It contextualizes the Dalit struggle for positive social transformation. Fundamentally, the analysis of the study shows the importance of long-term Dalit struggle that has brought changes into the issues of caste-based discrimination and socio-political marginalization of entire Dalit population. Yet, Dalits are struggling for their equal access to the state opportunities as well as the implementation of constitutional provisions against the untouchability.