Volume : 2, Issue : 8, AUG 2016

GANDHI'S VIEW ABOUT UNTOUCHABILITY IN INDIA

Meenu Sharma

Abstract

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. It is an attitude on the part of a whole group of people that relates to a deeper psychological process of thought and belief, invisible to the naked eye, translated into various physical acts and behaviors, norms and practices. The problem is of great amplitude and has various facets that are studied and researched time and again.Several forms of untouchability have been identified, many of which are apparently free India's additions to the list. From time immemorial Dalits have been deprived of their right to education and the right to possess land and other forms of property. Left with nothing but their physical labor to earn their livelihood they have all along been forced to do the toughest and most menial jobs for survival. Apart from the denial of access to public roads, tanks, temples and burial/cremation grounds there are other forms of untouchability. While untouchability is still rampant and is taking new forms particularly in villages, the constitutional ban and compulsions of modernity and development have to some extent blunted its rigor. Rail transport has been unifying forces in society. Although all state governments claim that they have abolished manual scavenging reports reveal that this practice is very much alive in many places. Postmen have also been found to practice untouchability.

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