Question

Untouchability is an attitude on the part of a whole group of people that relates to a deeper psychological process of thought and belief, translated into various physical acts and behaviours, norms and practices. Discuss

Answer 1

Approach:

• Define untouchability or provide a brief background.
• Try to elaborate on the statement. Explain how it is an attitude and how this attitude results in actions.

Untouchability is a direct product of the caste system. It is not merely the inability to touch a human being of a certain caste or sub-caste. Untouchability is prompted by the spirit of social aggression and the belief in purity and pollution that characterizes casteism.

The jobs considered polluting and impure are reserved for Dalits, and in many cases Dalits are prevented from engaging in any other work. These jobs include removing human waste (known as “manual scavenging”), dragging away and skinning animal carcasses, tanning leather, making and fixing shoes, and washing clothes. They are supposed to reside outside the village so that their physical presence does not pollute the “real” village.

Not only are they restricted in terms of space, but their houses are also supposed to be inferior in quality and devoid of any facilities like water and electricity.

Untouchability is present in nearly every sphere of life and practiced in an infinite number of forms. At the village level Dalits are barred from using wells used by non-Dalits, forbidden from going to the barber shop and entering temples, while at the level of job recruitment and employment Dalits are systematically paid less, ordered to do the most menial work, and rarely promoted. Even at school, Dalit children may be asked to clean toilets and to eat separately.

In addition, Dalits using public roads, gaining education accessing healthcare etc. are also considered ”pollution". It is not the mere physical presence but any decision taken by the Dalit to ensure his upward social mobility is by default considered "polluting". The 1950 national constitution of India legally abolishes the practice of “untouchability,” and there are constitutional reservations in both educational institutions and public services for Dalits. Unfortunately, these measures have not changed the reality of daily life for most Dalits, as the Indian government frequently tolerates oppression and open discrimination aimed at this group.

Despite a clear record of violence against the Dalits, there are numerous reports that police officials have refused to register complaints about violations of the law or to prosecute those responsible for the abuses. With little knowledge of their rights, limited access to attorneys, and no money for hearings or bail, Dalits are easy targets for human rights violations.