Page 197 - SST Class 07

Dalit is a self-designation for a group of people
traditionally known as untouchables (outcastes). It is
impossible to differentiate between Dalits and the
various other caste groups on the basis of pheno-
types or genetics. Many social organisations have
encouraged proactive provisions to better the
conditions of Dalits through improved education,
health and employment.

Here Are Few Narrations Of Caste
RECOGNISING THE DIGNITY OF AN
Discrimination
INDIVIDUAL
1. During primary education, I was very good
When individuals are not treated equally, their
in my studies. The Brahmin headmaster
dignity is violated. Nobody deserves to be treated
used to purposely ignore and discourage me
unequally. Everyone deserves the same respect
and dignity. by referring to my caste openly in the class.
In the school, others students of the higher
castes used to practise untouchability. We,
Scheduled Caste students were not allowed
to drink water from the same place where
others used to drink.
2. I belong to the sweeper community. All my
caste fellows should give up these occupations.
The government should also not employ
people as sweepers. I faced acute financial
problems at each stage of my educational
career. I also had very unpleasant life.
3. During my schooling, I did not like to
disclose my caste as I found that the peo-
ple’s attitude suddenly changed. Even today,
we do not like others to know our caste and
this leads to tension in our lives. Sometimes,
I used to be caught. Even today, in day-to-
day life, we do no open our caste identity
and feel very much burdened about it.

Protective Discrimination : The system of protective
discrimination grants special privileges to the
Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). In
India, with its introduction in the late 19th century, it
has contributed much to the upliftment of the
Scheduled Castes.

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