Protecting the Rights of Dalits and Adivasis

In addition to policy measures, our nation has enacted specific legislation aimed at preventing discrimination and exploitation against marginalized communities. The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, was enacted in response to the persistent demands from Dalit and tribal groups regarding the mistreatment and indignities they endure.

The intensity of such mistreatment escalated into violence during the late 1970s and 1980s, particularly in certain regions of southern India. During this period, several Dalit groups vehemently opposed the imposition of their traditional caste duties and demanded equal treatment.

In response, dominant castes unleashed violent reprisals against them. Advocating for new laws that would explicitly enumerate various forms of violence against Dalits and prescribe severe penalties for perpetrators became a focal point for Dalit advocacy groups.

The Act categorizes offenses into several types.

Firstly, it addresses acts of humiliation, both physically degrading and morally reprehensible, seeking to penalize those who

(i) compel a member of a Scheduled Caste or a Tribe to consume inedible or repugnant substances, or

(ii) forcibly strip or publicly shame a member of a Scheduled Caste or Tribe by parading them naked or with painted faces or bodies, or any similar act that degrades human dignity.

Secondly, it addresses actions aimed at depriving Dalits and Adivasis of their limited resources or coercing them into forced labor.

Accordingly, the Act aims to punish individuals who

(iii) unlawfully occupy or cultivate land owned by or allotted to a member of a Scheduled Caste or Tribe, or facilitate the transfer of such allotted land to themselves.

(iv) assaults or uses force against a woman belonging to a Scheduled Caste or Tribe with the intent to dishonor her.

Chapter 6: Confronting Marginalisation: Explore the accounts of various marginalized groups and their encounters with inequality and prejudice. Despite their lack of power, these groups have vigorously resisted exclusion and domination through acts of protest and resistance spanning generations.

Throughout history, they have employed diverse strategies such as seeking solace in religion, engaging in armed struggle, pursuing self-improvement through education, and striving for economic advancement. There is no singular approach to addressing these challenges, as the choice of struggle is contingent upon the specific circumstances faced by marginalized communities.

Chapter 6 of CBSE Class 8 Civics delves into these narratives, offering insights into the myriad ways in which groups and individuals confront existing inequalities. For comprehensive exam preparation, students are encouraged to review CBSE Notes Class 8 Civics Chapter 6, which provides a consolidated overview of the chapter’s key concepts and themes.