Introdution
In Nepal, the Dalit caste refers to a marginalized and historically oppressed group of people who have faced social and economic discrimination for centuries. The term “Dalit” comes from Sanskrit and means “broken” or “downtrodden,” and it is used to describe individuals who have been considered “untouchable” in the traditional caste system.
Dalits in Nepal have historically been relegated to the lowest rungs of society, facing discrimination and exclusion in various aspects of life, including education, employment, and access to basic services. They have often been subjected to social segregation and untouchability practices, which involved physical and social separation from higher-caste individuals.
The caste system in Nepal has been officially abolished, and discrimination against Dalits is prohibited by law. The 2015 Constitution of Nepal includes provisions for affirmative action and social inclusion to address historical injustices against marginalized groups, including Dalits. These measures aim to uplift Dalits and provide them with opportunities for education, employment, and political representation.
The Historical Origins of Caste Discrimination
The origins of Nepal’s caste system can be traced back to ancient Hindu scriptures such as the Vedas and the Manusmriti. These sacred texts divided society into four hierarchical varnas: Brahmins (priests and scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and farmers), and Shudras (servants and laborers). Dalits found themselves outside this system, relegated to the most degrading occupations like leatherwork and scavenging. They were barred from entering temples, forbidden to touch upper-caste individuals, and denied access to public resources.
The caste system’s institutionalization was perpetuated by the successive rulers of Nepal, particularly the Shah dynasty (1768-2008). This dynasty adhered to Hindu law and promoted the supremacy of the Khas-Arya group, consisting of Brahmins and Chhetris. Nepali was established as the national language, and Sanskrit became a compulsory subject in schools. This educational setup greatly disadvantaged Dalits, who were predominantly illiterate and confined to their traditional trades.
Abolition of the Caste System
Officially, the caste system was abolished in 1961 through the Naya Muluki Ain (New Legal Code). This historic declaration proclaimed all citizens equal before the law, explicitly prohibiting any form of discrimination based on caste. However, the ground reality remained grim, as Dalits continued to encounter widespread prejudice and exclusion from mainstream society.
The democratic movements of 1990 and 2006, which toppled autocratic rule and established a federal republic, kindled hope among Dalits. They began demanding more representation and rights within the new political landscape. The 2015 constitution of Nepal recognized Dalits as a marginalized and disadvantaged group. It guaranteed them proportional representation in state organs, affirmative action in education and employment, and special protection against caste-based discrimination and untouchability.
The Plight of Dalits in Nepal
As of the 2011 census, Nepal is home to approximately 3.6 million Dalits, constituting 13.6% of the total population. Some Dalit activists argue that this percentage could be even higher, reaching an estimated 20%, with around 5 million individuals. It is essential to note that Dalits in Nepal are not a monolithic group
Dalit Caste List In Nepal:
While there are various Dalit castes in Nepal, they can be broadly categorized into two main groups based on their regional origins:
- Hill Origin Dalit Castes:
- Gandarva (Gaine): Associated with music and entertainment.
- Pariyar (Damai, Darji, Suchikar, Nagarchi, Dholi, Hoodke): Engaged in occupations such as tailoring, leatherwork, and drum-making.
- Badi: Historically known for traditional entertainment, including dancing and singing.
- Viswakarma (Kami, Lohar, Sunar, Wod, Chunara, Parki, Tamata): Involved in artisan and craftwork professions, including blacksmithing, goldsmithing, and woodworking.
- Sarki (Mijar, Charmakar, Bhool): Engaged in leatherwork, especially shoemaking.
- Madhesi Origin Dalit Castes:
- Kalar: Involved in manual labor and agriculture.
- Kakaihiya: Engaged in agricultural and labor-intensive work.
- Kori: Associated with occupations such as weaving and agriculture.
- Khatik: Known for butchery and meat processing.
- Khatbe (Mandal, Khanka): Involved in leatherwork and other manual trades.
- Chamar (Ram, Mochee, Harijan, Rabidas): Engaged in leatherwork and cobbling.
- Chidimar: Involved in agricultural and labor-intensive work.
- Dom (Marik): Associated with cleaning and waste disposal.
- Tatma (Tanti, Das): Engaged in weaving and rope making.
- Dusadh (Paswan, Hajara): Involved in various manual labor and agricultural activities.
- Dhobi (Hindu Rajak): Traditionally engaged in laundry and related services.
- Pattharkatta: May be involved in various labor-intensive work.
- Pasi: Historically associated with agricultural and labor-related occupations.
- Bantar: Engaged in various manual labor and agricultural activities.
- Mushar: Known for involvement in agricultural and labor-intensive work.
- Mestar (Halkhor): Associated with manual trades and labor.
- Sarvanga (Sarbaraiya): Engaged in various manual labor and agricultural activities.
Dalit SubCaste List In Nepal:
Despite the progress, the Dalits continue to face daunting challenges:
1. Poverty and Inequality: Dalits are the poorest in Nepal, with a poverty rate of 48%, far surpassing the national average of 25%. Access to land, property, credit, and markets remains limited, forcing them into low-paid, insecure jobs. Discrimination even extends to essential services, such as education, health, water, and electricity.
2. Education and Literacy: The Dalits have the nation’s lowest literacy rate at 40%, compared to the national average of 66%. They grapple with numerous hurdles to access quality education, including a lack of schools and teachers, language barriers, caste-based bullying, and early marriage.
3. Health and Nutrition: With a life expectancy of just 60 years, ten less than the national average, the Dalits battle diseases and malnutrition. They lack access to proper healthcare, sanitation, clean water, and nutritious food. Discrimination persists even within healthcare facilities.
4. Justice and Human Rights: Dalits endure rampant human rights violations and caste-based violence, including physical and verbal abuse, sexual assault, and forced labor. Perpetrators often go unpunished, making justice elusive.
5. Political and Cultural Representation: Historically, the Dalits have been excluded from the political and cultural aspects of Nepalese society. Their representation in state institutions has been minimal, and their cultural identity has been subjugated.
A Resilient Struggle for Justice
The Dalits of Nepal have waged a relentless battle for dignity and equality. They’ve founded numerous organizations and movements, working to amplify their voices and demand their rights. Their presence in national and international forums has drawn attention to their issues, making incremental progress.
These resilient individuals are not merely a problem; they are a solution and a resource for the nation’s development and transformation. Their journey is one of courage, resilience, and unwavering determination.
Conclusion
As we unravel the history of Dalit caste in Nepal, it becomes clear that their struggle is a testament to the human spirit’s indomitable will. The story of the Dalits serves as a stark reminder that despite the breathtaking landscapes of Nepal, the true beauty lies in the resilience of its people.
Now, let’s stand together and support the Dalit community in Nepal on their journey toward a more equitable future.
