Dalits And Their Human Rights

South Asian countries have a terrible record of inequality in terms of race, gender, and religion and of course ideology. We recently marked 60th international human rights day. Human right is a matter of identity and representation for minorities’ community. Dalit movement seemed to be focused more on the issues of representation in Nepal. That’s fine because it gives access in raising voice. And, voice is a crucial component in pursuit of social justice. Dalits remain at the bottom of Nepal’s caste hierarchy.

Bhagavat Gita, a small section of great ancient epic Mahabharata, is widely know for its eternal knowledge and conventional wisdom. It also gives glimpse how caste-system came into existence in this region. Hindu religion has divided caste into four sub-groups. Brahmins are at the top of ritual orders, with Kshetris just beneath them and in command in political order, next comes Vaishyas (merchants) and Sudras (peasants and Laborers). Sudras were compelled to offer their services to so-called upper caste people. Sudras are popularly known as Dalits, which means untouchable one. They are politically backward, socially excluded and economically dependent on others.

It is a matter of great shame for the humanity itself to know that untouchability is still being practiced in Nepal. However, we must accept that it is in a declining order. Dalit’s participation in the decision making level of political parties, constitutional bodies, bureaucracy, security forces and civil society is still remain very low.

Dalit movement in Nepal has got a crisis of leaders. First, their participation in the executive bodies of political parties remains very low. Second, dalit leaders never bothered to acquire identity of national leader. Those who have occupied space in the decision making body of political party are more loyal to party and blessings of its main leadership. This is the greatest tragedy of dalit movement. From Rana regime to Maoist-led present government, all used the strength of dalit for their vested political interests. Leaders from Madhesh and indigenous community went one step forward this time. They cashed the contribution they have made in the past and hence are enjoying the fruits of power and authority. Unfortunately, dalits failed miserably to follow the suit. Dalit community had harbored bigger expectation from Maoist. This has proved that you cannot expect others to fight for your freedom. But it requires committed leadership and unity among dalits themselves.

During Panchayat period and ten years of multi-party democracy, dalit were entirely absent from parliament. Brahmins dominated in the legislature. They do held lion’s share in the cabinet appointments. They have still got monopoly over public service jobs. Dalits were denied from occupying seats in constitutional posts. Now, the scenario is changing slowly. But, they have not been given even a single seat in the cabinet. There is rumour that assistant ministry will be given. I think it is again the greatest insult to the contribution of dalits in 10 years people’s war.

The situation of large number of dalits in Nepal is miserable. This must change sooner than later. “How the change is possible?” is the right question of the time. I think we can change this in two ways. First, dalit should change their attitude. Second, they have to change their profession. Guru Ravidas was born in Sudra family. He changed his attitude and adopted the life style of Brahmins as prescribed in religious texts. Now the world remembers him as a saint. We don’t have to go to remote past even. Swami Prapannacharya was indigenous by birth. His name was Kale Rai. He changed his attitude and life style. Now people know him as a Swami. Similarly profession counts a lot. These days most of the educated dalits are engaged in teaching profession which has earned them respect and admiration in the society. It applies same with other professions too. This may bring sea change in the next 50 to 100 years. This is what I know for sure.