Untouchability In India: An Illusion Of Progress

Hemant Sharma, BA LLB, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies

ABSTRACT

The Indian caste system can be interpreted as a closed system of stratification which helped in deciding the social status of an individual after their birth. The domino effect has resulted in the issue of untouchability in India. Untouchability is a stain on the social fabric of the Indian Constitution. It is a believed notion that the rate of crime against lower caste groups has decreased a lot after the independence. The generalisation of the notion that caste-based violence has come to an end in India is spreading while the reality may depict a different picture. This article dives into a historical understanding of the caste system while analysing the laws created for lower caste groups and the level of implementation behind them. The question remains, have caste-based atrocities really come to an end in India?