Question

Why were the lower castes referred to as the untouchables?

• A. The supposed upper castes believed that touching the supposed lower castes polluted them.
• B. The supposed upper castes couldn't touch them because the lower castes were placed higher in the social order.
• C. The supposed upper castes believed that them touching lower castes polluted the lower castes.
• D. The supposed upper castes believed that the lower castes were violent and dangerous.

Answer 1

The correct option is A The supposed upper castes believed that touching the supposed lower castes polluted them.

The supposed upper castes felt that touching the supposed lower castes would make them impure or pollute them. Hence they referred to the lower castes as untouchables and denied them access to wells, ponds and even streets.