dalits’ social acceptance and social exclusion as we have...

377

Chapter-6

Dalits’ Social acceptance and Social exclusion

As we have seen how the word “Dalit”, the new

identity for the “Ati-Shudra” came into being gradually

after they were variously named & called in the epic

times till the advent of Independence. The words

variously used were “Shudra”, “Ati-Shudra”, “Antya”,

“Antyaj” “Antyavasin,1” “Padja2” and the “Pancham3

Varna” (Untouchables) explained in later scriptures as

having come from the offspring of Shudra men and

Brahmin woman. The old name of the untouchables

earlier given was “Chandal.4” Kautilya5 forbids the

Chandalas to follow the custom of the Shudras. Almost

always the Chandalas were exhorted to be treated like

dogs and outcasts6. Apastamba regards it as an offence

even to speak to or look at a Chandala7. The

references to the Chandals in the Yajurveda clearly show

them to be a degraded people.8 The Chandalas were a

degraded group of aborigines.9 The theory that the

Chandalas were the offspring of a Shudra father and a

Brahmin mother is questioned by G.S.Ghurye. He said,

“In the first place, it is difficult how a whole people

could be the outcome of illicit unions between Aryan

females and Sudra males. Secondly they are not the only

378

group described as degraded people in the Vedic

literature. The Paulkasas and Chandalas are referred to as

a despised race of men in the Brhadaranyaka. The use

of a derivative noun from Pulkasa shows the fixity of

the group. The term also occurs in later literature as the

name of the offspring of a Nishad or a Shudra by a

Kshatriya woman. Such a connection of Kshatriya

females, as a regular feature, is much more than can be

believed. It is more reasonable to hold that both these

groups, Chandala and Paulkasa, were sections of the

aborigines that were, for some reason or another,

particularly despised by the Aryans.”10 Then they were

known as the “untouchables”. In different Provinces, they

were called by different names. In 1921 Dr. Ambedkar

had given them the name of “Depressed class.” In 1932

they were given the name “untouchables” and the word “

untouchable” was also defined which we have seen

earlier. The term “Scheduled castes” was used for the

untouchables in Government of India Act, 1935 and the

same continues till date.

The other name given to the untouchables was “Harijan”.

The meaning of the word “Harijan” was “Children of

God.” The untouchables disliked the word because it also

means illegitimate children. This name was given by a

379

Gujarati poet Narsinh Mehta, from Junagadh, Saurashtra

region of Gujarat, to ascribe some respectability to the

untouchables who were previously addressed to or called

by very contemptuous caste names.

After the Constitution of India abolished

untouchability itself by Article 17, now noboday can be

addressed as untouchable. For research and academic

discussion, one can use it but in practical life, the word

“untouchable” is given an unceremonious good bye, by

the Constitution of India.

The word “untouchable” might have originated when

untouchability had originated in 600 A.D. Dr. B.R.

Ambedkar observed, “While untouchability did not exist

in 200 A.D., it had emerged by 600.”11 Gupta period

was the beginning of untouchability. The untouchables

were variously known in various provinces of India. In

West Bengal or Bengal, they were called, “Dushads,” in

South in certain provinces they were called “Mala” &

“Parriya,” in Maharastra they were called “Mahar,”

“Chamar,” “Matang” etc. Caste-based hatred & contempt

are the basis of untouchability.

The origin of the word “Dalit” is widely described

380

in website http://www.dalitchristians.com/Html/dalitmeaning.

htm which is as under :-

“The word “Dalit” has roots in Sanskrit where the

root “Dal” means to “Split, Crack, open”. This Indo-

European root appears in German & English in the

form of ‘Dal’ or ‘tal’, meaning cut. In English, “dale”

is a valley, a cut in the ground; in German, ‘that’: a

tailor who cuts, ‘to tell a tale’ is the same as ‘to cut

a tally’ the cut marks made by the shepherd on his staff

when counting sheep.

‘Dalit’ has come to mean things or persons who

are cut, split, broken or torn asunder, scattered, or

crushed and destroyed. By coincidence, there is in

Hebrew a root ‘dal’ meaning low, weak, poor. In the

Bible, different forms of this term have been used to

describe people who have been reduced to nothingness or

helplessness. The present usage of the term Dalit goes

back to the nineteenth century, when a Marathi social

reformer and revolutionary, Mahatma Jyotirao Phule

(1826-1890), used it to describe the outcastes and the

untouchables as the opressed and the broken victims of

our caste ridden society. Under the charistmatic leadership

of Dr. B.R.Ambedkar (1891-1956), this term gained

381

greater importance & popularity. During the 1970s, the

followers of the Dalit Panther Movement of Maharashtra

gave currency to the term ‘Dalit’ as a constant reminder

of their age-old oppression, denoting, both their state of

deprivation and the people who are oppressed. This term

for them is not a mere name or title: for them it has

become an expression of hope, the hope of recovering

their past self-identity. The term has gained a new

connotation with a more positive meaning. It must be

remembered that Dalit does not mean Caste or low

Caste or poor; it refers to the deplorable state or

condition to which a large group of people has been

reduced by social convention and in which they are now

living.

Names of Dalits :-

The Dalits are called by differnt names in different

parts of the country. These names were given by the

Caste people for expression of contempt. They include:

Dasa, as Dasyu, Raksasa, Asura, Avarna, Nisada,

Panchma, Chandala, Harijan, untouchable. Each of these

name has a history and background. Besides these names,

there are number of other titles or names which have

been given to them at the level of the regional language.

For example Chura in Punjab (North West India), Bhangi

or Lal Beghi in Hindi (North India), Mahar in Marathi

382

(Central India), Mala in Telugu, Paraiya in Tamil and

Pulayan in Malayalam (South India). These names carry

within them the two term contrast of “We the Pure” and

“You the impure”.

The word “Dalit” has almost substituted all other

names & nomenclatures given so far to the former

untouchables. The world has found greater acceptance

among Dalits and non-Dalits both. In all Social &

political speeches and generl talks and discussions, now it

is seen that only “Dalit” word is used. If any ‘Dalit’

goes to any interior village & on being asked about his

Caste, he says “Anusuchit Jati” or the “Scheduled Caste”

no uneducated villager will come to know but if he says

he is a Dalit, quickly his identity will be clear to all

and hence it has gained acceptability and currency both,

yet it is not a Government recognized name of the

former untouchables. It is felt that the Government

should give recognition to this so popular a name for

easy identity and facility for all concerned.

The Dalits feel that even after enactment of so many

laws including Costitution of India and even after burning

of Manu Smruti and officially discarding Hindu Laws based

on Manu Smruti & other Smrutis, our position in society

has not improved so far as our acceptability is concerned.

Most of the times, British supported Brahmanis. They got

the Manu Smruti translated in English as “A Code of

383

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384

Gentoo Laws” as this book served as a law book for

providing justice to the Hindus. The Pandits were

associated with British Judges to administer the Civil Laws

of Hindus. No doubt after all the Constitutional safe

guards & protection, we have made progress in terms of

our advancements in life but social aspect is yet missing &

we have not wholeheartedly been accepted by the Caste

Hindus, feel the Dalits. The Dalits feel that they are

tolerated but not accepted. With this prevailing social

hypothesis now we analyse the ground realities based on

empirical data. We classify data in ascending order. We also

analyse who do not want to accept, accept under

helplessness, conditional acceptance & who wholeheartedly

accept etc.as indicated in the following tables:-

Table N0.6-2

Not willing to accept Dalits on any occasion.

Sr.No. Caste Urban Rural

1. Patel 18.33% 10.00%

2. OBC 12.50% Nil

3. Vaishya 8.45% 50.00%

4. Brahmin 7.84% 1.96%

5. Kshatriya 3.79% Nil

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 10.18% 12.39%

385

The severity & intensity of dishike for the Dalits

by the Patels is the highest. 18.33% Patels from urban

area and 10.00% Patels from rural area respectively do

not want to accept Dalits on any occasions. The Patels

occupy top rank in aversion of Dalits though their own

social standing is not praiseworthy as they are the

“Shudras” as per Hindu scriptures. Next comes OBCs.

They are aso “Shudras” as per Hindu Scriptures but their

aversion for Dalits is equally strong as 12.5% OBCs

from urban areas do not want to accept Dalits on any

occasion. The Vaishyas, whose religion Jainisam preaches

and teaches non-violence & equality for all, are not

prepared to accept Dalits on any occasions. 8.45%

Vaishyas from urban area and 50.00% Vaishyas from

rural areas respectively do not want to accept the Dalits

at all.

7.84% Brahmins from urban area and 1.96%

Brahmins from rural areas respectively are not willing to

accept the Dalits on any social occasions. Similarlly

3.79% Kshatriyas from urban area are not willing to

accept Dalits on any occasions.

This shows the extent of antipathy, contempt, hatred

& very strong sense of aversion against Dalits by above

Caste Hindus which is engrained in them by the priestly

Castes, clerics & the scriptures written by them.

386

On an average 10.18% Caste Hindus from urban

area and 12.39% Caste Hindus from rural areas

respectively are not willing to accept Dalits on any

occasion. They, thus do not want any social interaction

with the Dalits and want to exclude Dalits totally from

all social occasions. It seems that they are so firm, so

resolute, that nothing can change their minds or hearts as

they are highly prejudiced lot.

Then comes a group of people who are yet more

rigid, Casteist and hard nut to crack type who do not

want to tolerate even the presence of Dalits in toilet/

urinal block, bus, train, public garden etc. This group of

Hindus can be easily termed as “Caste Hindu

fundamentalists.” They are as under :-

Dalits are not acceptable even in Bus, Train, Public

Garden, Toilet, common Urinal like in cinema house,

occasionally coming in contact or even seating

together is also not acceptable.

Table N0.6-3

Non-acceptance of Dalits in various

places mentioned above.


1. OBC 8.75% Nil

2. Brahmin 7.84% 1.96%

3. Patel 5.00% Nil


387

5. Vaishya - -

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 5.71% 0.49%

The OBCs are seen as spearheading & leading anti

acceptance theory as 8.75% OBCs from urban areas are

not even ready to accept Dalits even in toilet & urinal

for example, say cinema house’s toilet & urinal. Such

coming together is just momentary for a couple of

minutes but that too is not acceptable by 8.75% OBCs

& that too from urban area. Urban Brahmins, supposed

to be highly educated and modern also nurtures anti-

Dalit hatred & disliking as the OBCs are nurturing and

the percentage of Brahmins in this regard is 7.84% and

01.96% Brahmins from rural area also hold the same

contemptuous belief against the Dalits.

5.00% Patels & 1.26% Kshatriyas respectively from

urban area too have almost zero tolerance of Dalits even

in purely momentary contacts like urinal & toilet, Bus,

Train, Garden etc.places.

Then comes the category of Caste Hindus who by

sheer force of circumstances, most hesitantly would

accept Dalits if there is no way out. Due to their own

helplessness, hesitatingly they will come to terms with

the compelling circumstances. Such acceptance is not

388

coming from within and hence it is as good as or as

bad as no-acceptance. Their percentage is as under:-

Table N0. 6-4

Dalits acceptable if no way out.


1. Patel 25.00% Nil

2. OBC 13.75% Nil

3. Brahmin 7.84% 1.96%

4. Vaishya 5.08% Nil


6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 11.45% 0.39%

The 25.00% Patels from urban area would accept

Dalits only under compulsion. If there is no compulsion

or compelling factors & alternatives are available which

can easily exclude Dalits, then they will go for the same

but would not like to accept the Dalits. Similarly in

descending order 13.75% OBCs, 7.84% Brahmins 5.08%

Vaishyas and 5.60% Kshatriyas all from urban area

respectively would accept Dalits if there is no other

remedy available. This is in fact as good as no

acceptance at all. 1.96% Brahmins from rural areas also

have the same negative attitude in the matter of

acceptance of Dalits. On an average 11.45% Caste

Hindus from urban area & 0.39% Caste Hindus from

389

rural areas will accept Dalits only if there is no way

out. If they can escape from this dilemma of accepting

Dalits, they would certainly like to do it.

The following percentage of Caste Hindus very

frankly, boldly, firmly and forthrightly said that they do

not want to accept “Dalits”. They are as under :-

Table No.6-5

Dalits not acceptable in certain matters.

Sr.No. Caste Urban Rural Matters in which

not acceptable.

1. Patel 38.33% 10.00% In all matters

2. Brahmin 21.56% 14.28% Religion, festivals,

eating together,Garba,

Marriage.

3. Kshatriya 20.25% Nil Eating together,

Marriage, Festivals.

4. Vaishya 18.64% 50.00% Marriage

5. OBC 16.25% Nil In all matters

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A. N.A.

Average% 23.00% 14.85% -

The 38.33% Patels from urban area & 10.00%

Patels from rural areas respectively, in all matters they

do not want to accept Dalits. Next comes Brahmins

21.56% Brahmins from urban area and 14.28% Brahmins

from rural areas respectively do not want to accept

390

Dalits in religious matters, festivals, eating to-gether,

garba & Marriage. Almost all matters are covered in

which Brahmins want the social exclusion of Dalits.

20.25% Kshatriyas from urban area do not want to

accept Dalits in matters of eating to-gether, marriage &

festivals. This also encompasses almost everything.

18.64% Vaishyas from urban area & 50.00%

Vaishyas from rural areas respectively do not want to

accept Dalits in marriage ceremonies. They are thus

found a bit liberal in accepting Dalits but the acceptance

is not all inclusive but exclusive in nature.

16.25% OBCs from urban areas do not want to

accept Dalits in all matters. It seems, they are competing

with the Patels in this regard. They believe in total

exclusion of Dalits from all social matters. Though they

themselves occupy the “Shudra” slot in the Caste

hierarchy and they themselves faced tremendus

discrimination & exclusion in both varna system & Caste

system, despite that instead of sympathising with the

“Dalits” they have exibited antipathy against them is an

irony of social fact.

Average 23.00% Caste Hindus from urban areas &

14.85% Caste Hindus from rural areas respectively do

391

not want to accept Dalits in matters indicated against

them in the above Table.

The last question comes as to who and how many of

them want to accept Dalits which is indicated as under:-

Table N0.6-6

How many Caste Hindus are willing to accept Dalits &

in which matters?

Sr. Caste Urban Rural Matters Urban Rural

No.

1. Kshatriya 79.74% 100.00% GARBA, MOU- 16.45% 27.24%RNING MEETINGS,CULTURALPROGRAME

2. Vaishya 79.66% 100.00% -DO- 27.11% Nil

3. OBC 67.5% 100.00% GARBA, MOU- 20.00% 16.66%RNING MEETINGS,CULTURALPROGRAME

4. Patel 60.00% 90.00% GARBA, MOU- 15.00% NilRNING MEETINGS,CULTURALPROGRAME

5. Brahmin 54.90% 42.85% GARBA, MOU- 19.60% NilRNING MEETINGS,CULTURALPROGRAME

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A.

Average% 68.36% 86.57% - 19.63% 8.78%

The above picture, on the first sight, appears to be

cosy as 79.74% Kshatriyas from urban areas & 100.00%

392

Kshatriyas from rural areas are prepared to accept Dalits

but they qualify their preparedness for acceptance of

Dalits only in the matters of garba, mourning & cultural

programmes and they do not want or are not prepared to

accept Dalits on all social occasions like marriage,

meetings, other festivals, Bhajan (Assembly for devotional

songs) eating occasions, religious programmes etc. so the

actual percentage of preparedness to accept Dalits by

Kshatriyas is only 16.45% in urban areas & 27.24% in

rural area.

Similarly 79.66% Vaishyas from urban area &

100% Vaishyas from rural areas are prepared to accept

Dalits but they all are craftly & expertly cought in the

cobweb when after affirming acceptance, the details of

matters in which their preparedness was to accept, then

they faltered suddenly and limited their acceptance only

to 3 things mainly, (1) Garba (2) Mourning & (3)

Cultural programmes and not unequivocal acceptance in

all matters. Same is the case with OBCs, Patels &

Brahmins. So real acceptance average percentage is not

68.36% in urban areas & 86.57% in rural areas

respectively but 19.63% in urban areas & 8.78% in rural

areas respectively after application of theory of exclusion

as per their convenience.

Now, let us see the acceptance level of Dalits by

the Caste Hindus as under :-

393

Table N0.6-7

Average percentage of acceptance by all Caste Hindus.

Sr.No. NOT WILLING NOT ACCEPTABLE NOT ACCEPTABLE A VERAGE ACCEPTE-

TO ACCEPT EVEN IN ACCEPTABLE IF NO WAY NON -BLE INDALITS ON TOILET & OUT ACCEPTABILITY THREEANY OCCASION. URINALS ETC. MA TTERS;

GARBA,MOURNING& CULTURALPROGRAMMES

1.URBAN 10.18% 5.71% 23.00% 11.45% 50.34% 19.63%

2.RURAL 12.39% 0.49% 14.85% 0.39% 28.12% 8.78%

Thus, only 19.63% Caste Hindus from urban areas

and 8.78% Caste Hindus from rural areas are

respectively partially prepared to accept Dalits and that

too only in three matters namely:- (1) Garba (2)

Mourning and (3) Cultural programmes. It is clearly

visible that theory of social exclusion is at its peak.

To 80.37% Caste Hindus in urban areas and

91.22% Caste Hindus in rural areas respectively the

Dalits are not acceptable at all. The 50.34% Caste

Hindus in rural areas have clearly indicated that the

Dalits are not acceptable to them & rest have not

expressed any opinion and left the options unticked

which is treated as negative opinion because positive

opinion they readily expressed but negative opinion, some

of them as mentioned above, have ignored to express or

tick against the option.

394

68.36% Caste Hindus from urban areas & 86.57%

Caste Hindus from rural areas respectively indicated their

acceptance of Dalits was deceptive & illusory which is

proved in foregoing paragraphs by offering options about

acceptability of Dalits by them & then they faltered one

by one and finally restricted themselves to 3 items only

wherein they are prepared to accept Dalits & thus they

excluded Dalits from all other social matters so far as

their acceptance of Dalits was concerned.

The Dalits’ theory & feeling that they are tolerated

but not accepted is thus proved correct on the basis of

above empirical facts gathered from the people from the

field.

It was a hypothesis that the Caste Hindus prefer

Adivasis (STs) on Dalits (SCs). To explore and find out

the facts a question was asked to the Caste Hindus that

out of Dalits & Adivasis, whom they have no objection

to accept in social matters like marriage, death, mourning

meetings, celebrations of festivals, garba, Bhajan

(Assembly for Devotional songs), religious programmes

etc.

Their responses percentage-wise are analysed as

under:-

395

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51

0+

1-

51

+7

=5

8%

7.8

4+

00

.00

3.9

2+

14

.28

68

.62

+7

1.4

21

9.6

0+

14

.28

-

2.K

SH

AT

RIY

A-

3+

06

4+

10

12

+1

-7

9+

11

=9

0%

-3

.79

+0

.00

81

.01

+9

0.9

01

5.1

8+

9.0

9-

3.VA

ISH

YA3

+0

4+

04

3+

19

+1

-5

9+

2=

61

%5

.08

+0

.00

6.7

7+

00

.00

72

.88

+5

0.0

01

5.2

5+

50

.00

-

4.O

BC

9+

09

+2

52

+1

01

0+

0-

80

+1

2=

92

%1

1.2

5+

00

.00

11

.25

+1

6.6

66

5.0

0+

83

.33

12

.5+

00

.00

-

5.P

AT

EL

9+

05

+0

37

+9

9+

1-

60

+1

0=

70

%1

5.0

0+

00

.00

8.3

3+

00

.00

61

.66

+9

0.0

01

5.0

0+

10

.00

-

6.S

C/S

T-

--

-3

8+

23

8+

2=

40

%-

--

-10

0.00

+10

0.00

7.T

OT

AL

--

--

-3

67

+4

4=

41

1R

ES

PO

ND

EN

TS

TAB

LE N

O.

6-8

OU

T O

F D

ALI

TS

AN

D A

DIV

AS

IS,

WH

OM

DO

YO

U H

AVE

NO

OB

JEC

TIO

N T

O A

CC

EP

T I

N A

BO

VE

SO

CIA

L M

AT

TE

RS

?

(1)

U =

Urb

an (

2) R

= R

ural

(3)

T

= T

otal

(4)

+ =

Rur

al r

espo

nden

ts a

nd t

heir

perc

enta

ge

396

Table N0.6-9

No objection for both of them, Dalits & Adivasis.


1. Kshatriya 81.01% 90.90%

2. Vaishya 72.88% 50.00%

3. Brahmin 68.62% 71.42%

4. OBC 65.00% 83.33%

5. Patel 61.66% 90.00%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 69.83% 77.13%

Table N0.6-10

None of them is acceptable. Objection in both of them.


1. Brahmin 19.60% 14.28%

2. Vaishya 15.25% 50.00%

3. Kshatriya 15.18% 9.00%

4. Patel 15.00% 10.00%

5. OBC 12.50% Nil

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 15.50% 16.65%

Table N0.6-11

No objection for Dalits.


1. Patel 15.00% Nil

397

2. OBC 11.25% Nil

3. Brahmin 7.84% Nil


5. Kshatriya - -

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 7.83% Nil

Table N0.6-12

No objection for Adivasis.


1. OBC 11.25% 16.16%

2. Patel 8.33% Nil


4. Brahmin 3.92% 14.28%


6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 6.81% 5.07%

69.83% Caste Hindus from urban area & more

than that i.e. 77.13% Caste Hindus from rural area have

no objection in accepting both Dalits & Adivasis in

social matters. 15.50% Caste Hindus from urban area

and 16.65% Caste Hindus from rural area have objection

in accepting both Dalits & Adivasis and hence they have

expressed “none of them” is acceptable to them. 7.83%

Caste Hindus in urban areas have preferred Dalits over

398

Adivasis in which they have no objection in accepting

them on social occasions whereas such acceptance of

Adivasis in urban areas is 6.81%. A slight 1.02%

advantage to Dalits over Adivasis in urban areas but in

rural areas Dalits were totally non-acceptable whereas

5.07% in rural area Caste Hindus have identified

themselves with the Adivasis. Thus, finally, the Adivasis

find more acceptance i.e. 11.88% combined (Both urban

& rural) whereas the Dalits acceptance is only 7.83%.

Thus average acceptance of Adivasis is on higher scale

than Dalits by 4.05%.

Thus, the untouchability factor seems to have

played its role. No untouchability is practised against

the Adivasis but the same is practised against the Dalits

both in urban & rural areas. The Adivasis can draw

water from village well but the Dalits can not do it or

they are not permitted to do it by the Caste Hindus. So,

the general hypothesis that the Adivasis are more

acceptable than Dalits is clearly proved in this empirical

social study i.e. only because Adivasis are not Hindus.

So non-Hindus can be acceptable but not their brethren

of the same religion.

It was considered to be pertinent to find out as to

what was the objection of the Caste Hindus in various

social & other matters related with them and with the

Dalits. The concealed objection, aversion, dislike and

399

SR

.C

AS

TE

&D

ALI

T W

ED

SC

AS

TE

HIN

DU

OB

JEC

TIO

NIF

DA

LIT

IF D

ALI

TIF

DA

LIT

IF C

AS

TE

HIN

DU

&IF

DA

LIT

IF D

ALI

TIF

DA

LIT

NO

.P

ER

CE

NTA

GE

CA

ST

E H

IND

UW

ED

S D

ALI

TIN

1&

2 B

OT

HR

ES

IDE

S IN

BU

RIE

S/C

RE

MA

TE

SG

IRL

PA

RT

I-D

ALI

T P

AR

TIC

I-E

NT

ER

S IN

TO

EN

TE

RS

INE

NT

ER

S

GIR

LG

IRL

CA

ST

E H

IND

UH

IS D

EA

DC

IPA

TE

S IN

A-P

AT

E I

N C

OM

MU

-Y

OU

R H

OU

SE

TO

YO

UR

INT

O

AR

EA

OR

NE

AR

& D

EA

R O

NE

CA

ST

E H

IND

UN

ITY

ME

ALS

.K

ITC

HE

NT

EM

PLE

SO

CIE

TY

IN A

CA

ST

E H

IND

UG

AR

BA

IN V

ILL-

CR

EM

AT

OR

IUM

-AG

E O

R C

ITY

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

1.2.

3.4.

5.6.

7.8.

9.10

.

1.B

RA

HM

IN1

0+

38

+3

18

+3

9+

06

+0

5+

08

+1

10

+0

12

+1

6+

0

%1

9.6

0+

42

.85

15

.68

+4

2.8

53

5.2

9+

42

.85

17

.64

+0

0.0

01

1.7

6+

00

.00

9.8

0+

00

.00

15

.68

+1

4.2

81

9.6

0+

00

.00

23

.52

+1

4.2

81

1.7

6+

00

.00

2.K

SH

AT

RIY

A2

3+

32

0+

41

4+

24

+1

6+

05

+0

5+

15

+1

13

+0

2+

0

%2

9.1

1+

27

.27

25

.31

+3

6.3

61

7.7

2+

18

.18

5.0

6+

9.0

97

.59

+0

0.0

06

.32

+0

0.0

06

.32

+9

.09

6.3

2+

9.0

91

6.4

5+

00

.00

2.5

3+

00

.00

3.V

AIS

HY

A1

8+

12

2+

17

+0

3+

04

+0

4+

03

+0

2+

04

+0

1+

0

%3

0.5

0+

50

.00

37

.28

+5

.00

11

.86

+0

0.0

05

.08

+0

0.0

06

.77

+0

0.0

06

.77

+0

0.0

05

.8+

00

.00

3.3

8+

00

.00

6.7

7+

00

.00

1.6

9+

00

.00

4.O

BC

23

+5

22

+5

-7

+2

7+

33

+2

7+

28

+2

6+

24

+2

%2

8.7

5+

41

.60

27

.5+

41

.60

-8

.75

+1

6.6

68

.75

+2

5.0

03

.75

+1

6.6

68

.75

+1

6.6

61

0.0

0+

16

.66

7.5

+1

6.6

6

5.0

0+

16

.66

5.P

AT

EL

19

+6

11

+4

-6

+0

4+

03

+0

4+

04

+0

4+

05

+0

%3

1.6

6+

60

.00

18

.30

+4

0.0

0-

10

.00

+0

0.0

06

.66

+0

0.0

05

.00

+0

0.0

06

.66

+0

0.0

06

.66

+0

0.0

06

.66

+0

0.0

0

8

.33

+0

0.0

0

6.S

C/S

T1

+1

2+

01

+0

--

--

--

-

%2

.63

+5

0.0

05

.26

+0

0.0

02

.63

+0

0.0

0-

--

--

--

7.T

OTA

L-

--

--

--

--

-

SR

.C

AS

TE

&IF

DA

LIT

IF D

ALI

T G

ET

SN

O O

BJE

CT

ION

OB

JEC

TIO

N IN

NO

T A

PP

LIC

AB

LETO

TAL

NO

.P

ER

CE

NTA

GE

EN

TE

RS

GO

OD

/HIG

HIN

AN

Y O

FA

LL

AB

OV

EB

EIN

G S

C/S

TR

ES

PO

ND

EN

TS

INT

O T

HE

JOB

/SE

RV

ICE

AB

OV

E

SA

NC

TU

M

SA

NC

TO

RU

M

OF

TH

E T

EM

PLE

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

-T

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

1.B

RA

HM

IN6

+1

12

+0

33

+5

6+

0-

51

+7

=5

8%

11

.76

+1

4.2

81

1.7

0+

00

.00

64

.70

+7

1.4

21

1.7

6+

00

.00

-2.

KS

HA

TR

IYA

1+

03

+0

49

+7

4+

0-

79

+1

1=

90

%1

.26

+0

0.0

03

.79

+0

0.0

06

2.2

+6

3.6

35

.6+

00

.00

-3.

VA

ISH

YA

3+

03

+0

47

+1

2+

0-

59

+2

=6

1%

5.0

8+

00

.00

5.8

+0

0.0

07

9.6

6+

50

.00

3.3

8+

00

.00

-4.

OB

C6

+2

3+

24

4+

94

+2

-8

0+

12

=9

2%

7.5

+1

6.6

63

.75

+1

6.6

65

5.0

0+

75

.00

5.0

0+

16

.66

-5.

PA

TE

L3

+0

3+

03

7+

44

+0

-6

0+

10

=7

0%

5.0

0+

00

.00

5.0

0+

00

.00

61

.66

+4

0.0

06

.66

+0

0.0

0-

6.S

C/S

T-

-2

8+

1-

6+

03

8+

2=

40

%-

-7

3.6

8+

50

.00

-1

5.7

8+

00

.00

7.T

OTA

L-

--

--

36

7+

44

=4

11

RE

SP

ON

DE

NT

S

TAB

LE N

O. 6

-13

‘ M

AT

TE

RS

OF

OB

JEC

TIO

N F

OR

SO

CIA

L A

CC

EP

TAN

CE

’

(1)

U =

Urb

an (

2) R

= R

ural

(3)

I.C

.M.

Inte

r-C

aste

mar

riage

(3)

T

= T

otal

(4)

+ =

Rur

al r

espo

nden

ts a

nd t

heir

perc

enta

ge

400

contempt and at times disgust have come to the fore

from the analysis of their responses as under :-

Table N0.6-14

Dalit weds Caste Hindu’s girl.

Note:-Percentage of objection. Stronger the objection,

higher the rank in all the tables.

Level of objection.


1. Patel 31.66% 60.00%

2. Vaishya 30.50% 50.00%

3. Kshatriya 29.11% 27.27%

4. OBC 28.75% 41.60%

5. Brahmin 19.60% 42.85%

6. SC/ST 2.63% 50.00%

Average% - 23.70% 45.28%

Table N0.6-15

Caste Hindu weds Dalit girl.

Level of objection


1. Vaishya 37.28% 5.00%

2. OBC 27.5% 41.60%

3. Kshatriya 25.31% 36.36%

4. Patel 18.30% 40.00%

5. Brahmin 15.68% 42.85%

6. SC/ST 5.26% Nil

Average% - 21.55% 27.63%

401

Table N0.6-16

Objection in 1 & 2 both


1. Brahmin 35.20% 42.85%

2. Kshatriya 17.72% 18.18%


4. SC/ST 2.63% Nil

5. OBC - -

6. Patel - -

Average% - 11.23% 10.17%

Table N0.6-17

If Dalits resides in Caste Hindus’ area or society.(Objection)



2. Patel 10.00% Nil

3. OBC 8.75% 16.16%


5. Kshatriya 5.60% 9.09%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 9.30% 5.05%

Table N0.6-18

If Dalit buries/cremates his dead near and dear one in a

Caste Hindus’ burial ground or crematorium. (Objection)

402



2. OBC 8.75% 25.00%



5. Patel 6.66% Nil

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 8.30% 5.00%

Table N0.6-19

If Dalit girl participates in a Caste Hindus’ Garba in

village or in city. (Objection)





4. Patel 5.00% Nil

5. OBC 3.75% 16.66%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 6.32% 3.33%

Table N0.6-20

If Caste Hindus and Dalits participate in community

meals. (Objection)


1. Brahmin 15.68% 14.28%

403

2. OBC 8.75% 16.66%

3. Patel 6.66% Nil

4. Kshatriya 6.32% 09.09%


6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 8.64% 8.00%

Table N0.6-21

If a Dalit enters into your house. (Objection)



2. OBC 10.00% 16.66%

3. Patel 6.66% Nil

4. Kshatriya 6.32% 9.09%


6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 9.19% 5.15%

Table N0. 6-22

Objection over Dalit’s entry in upper caste’s kithcen.


1. Brahmin 23.52% 14.28%


3. OBC 7.50% 16.66%


5. Patel 6.66% Nil

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 12.19% 6.18%

404

Table N0.6-23

Dalit’s temple entry (Objection)



2. Patel 8.33% Nil

3. OBC 5.00% 16.66%



6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 5.86% 3.33%

Table N0.6-24

Dalit enters into the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.(Objection)


1. Brahmin 11.76% 14.28%

2. OBC 7.50% 16.66%


4. Patel 5.00% Nil


6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 6.12% 6.18%

Table N0.25

If Dalit gets good/high job/ service.(Objection)




405

3. Patel 5.00% Nil


5. OBC 3.75% 16.66%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 6.00% 3.33%

Table N0.6-26

No objection in any of above 1 to 12 matters.


1. Vaishya 79.66% 50.00%

2. Brahmin 64.70% 71.42%

3. Kshatriya 62.20% 63.63%

4. Patel 61.66% 40.00%

5. OBC 55.00% 75.00%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 64.64% 60.01%

Table N0.6-27

Objection in all above 1 to 12 matters.



2. Patel 6.66% Nil


4. OBC 5.00% 16.66%


6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 6.48% 3.33%

406

The acid test of acceptability of Dalits by the

Caste Hindus is designed in this question which

elaborately covers salient features, prominent ingredients of

relevant social parameters. Dr. B.R.Ambedkar had said, “I

am convinced that the real remedy is inter marriage. The

real remedy for breaking Caste is inter marriage. Nothing

else will serve as the solvent of Caste. It is a direct

and frontal attack”

Now let us see how intercaste marriage is objected

to not only by Caste Hindus but by the Dalits also.

With 31.66% Patels from urban areas & 60.00% Patels

from rural areas respectively have objection for inter-caste

marriages. The Patels are on top to oppose inter-caste

marriages. The Vaishyas, Kshatriyas, OBCs, Brahmins &

SCs/STs followed suit. Average 23.70% from urban area

& 45.38% from rural areas object to the wedding of a

Dalit with Caste Hindu girl. Surprisingly 2.63%

Scheduled Castes from urban area & 50.00% Scheduled

Castes from rural area have also objected to the inter-

caste marriage between a Dalit boy & a Caste Hindu

girl.

What happens if Dalit girl weds Caste Hindu boy?

This is also objected to by 21.55% urban Hindus &

27.63% rural Hindus including the SCs/STs. Thus total

45.25% urban Hindus & 72.90% rural Hindus including

407

SCs/STs object to inter-caste marriage be it “Anulom”

marriage or be it “Pratilom” marriage. If responses of

point 3 i.e. objection in 1&2 both are added then the

percentage of opposition to inter-caste marriages go very

high i.e. 56.49% in urban areas & 83.07% in rural

areas respectively people object to such inter-caste

marriages. Residing by a Dalit in Caste Hindu area or

society is objected to by 9.30% Caste Hindus from

urban area & 5.05% Caste Hindus from rural area

respectively. The Brahmins are the toppers in raising the

banner of objection. Sharing of crematorium by Dalits

with Caste Hindus is objected to by 8.30% Caste


rural areas respectively. Again the Brahmins are the

toppers in raising the banner of objection.

Participation in a Caste Hindus’ Garba by a Dalit

girl is objected to by 6.32% Caste Hindus from urban

area and 3.33% Caste Hindus from rural areas

respectively. Again Brahmins are the toppers in raising

the banner of objection.

Participation in community meals by Dalits & Caste

Hindus are objected to by 8.64% Caste Hindus from

urban area & 8.00% Caste Hindus from rural area

respectively. Again Brahmins are the toppers in raising

the banner of objection.

408

Entry into Caste Hindus house by a Dalit is

objected to by 9.19% Caste Hindus from urban area &

5.15% Caste Hindus from rural area respectively. Again

Brahmins are the toppers in raising the banner of

objection.

Entry into the kitchen of Caste Hindu by a Dalit

is objected to by 12.19% Caste Hindus from urban area

6.18% Caste Hindus from rural area respectively. Again


objection.

Entry into the temple by a Dalit is objected to by

5.86% Caste Hindus from urban area & 3.33% Caste

Hindus from rural area respectively. Again Brahmins are

the toppers in raising the banner of objection.

Entry into the Sanctum Sanctorum of a temple by

Dalit is objected to by 6.12% Caste Hindus from urban

area & 6.18% Caste Hindus from rural areas respectively.

Again Brahmins are the toppers in raising the banner of

objection.

The Dalit getting a good/high job/service is

objected to by 6.00% Caste Hindus from urban area &

409

3.33% Caste Hindus from rural areas respectively. Again


objection. Even though getting job is not polluting the

personal establishment of Caste Hindus like their houses,

their temples, its sactum sanctorum despite that out of

caste hatred, jealousy and contempt, the Caste Hindus

object to this innocuous matter.

In point No. 13, no objection in any of above 12

matters is not at all correct. In this point 64.64% Caste


rural area have boastfully stated that they do not have

any objection in any matters listed as 1 to 12. This

seems to be a face saving device adopted by them as

128.4% Caste Hindus from urban area and 125.3 %

Caste Hindus from rural area respectively have already

registered their protest & objection in all matters covered

in above 1 to 12 points.

Objection in all above 1 to 12 points may be

correct as 6.48% Caste Hindus from urban area and

3.33% Caste Hindus from rural area respectively objected

to in all matters listed as 1 to 12 above. Again here

also Brahmins are the toppers in raising the banner of

objection.

So any programme aimed at improvement of social

410

SR

.C

AS

TE

&Y

ES

SO

ME

TIM

ES

MA

NY

TIM

ES

NO

, NE

VE

RY

ES

, AS

AIT

AD

VE

RS

ELY

R

ES

ON

S O

FTO

TAL

NO

.P

ER

CE

NTA

GE

SE

RV

ICE

AF

FE

CT

S O

UR

PA

RT

ICIP

AT

ION

RE

SP

ON

DE

NT

S

RE

ND

ER

ER

SO

CIA

L S

TAT

US

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

-T

1.B

RA

HM

IN3

2+

43

2+

47

+2

12

+1

--

ACQ

UA

INTA

NC

ES

51

+7

=5

8%

62

.74

+5

7.1

46

2.7

4+

57

.14

13

.72

+2

8.5

72

3.5

2+

14

.28

--

2.K

SH

AT

RIY

A6

8+

10

36

+5

32

+4

11

+1

-2

+0

“7

9+

11

=9

0%

86

.07

+9

0.9

04

5.5

6+

45

.45

40

.50

+3

6.3

61

3.9

2+

9.0

9-

2.5

3+

00

.00

3.VA

ISH

YA5

4+

23

7+

21

7+

04

+0

0+

11

+0

“

59

+2

=6

1%

91

.52

+1

00

.00

62

.37

+1

00

.00

20

.81

+0

0.0

06

.77

+0

0.0

00

0.0

0+

50

.00

1.6

9+

00

.00

4.O

BC

65

+1

23

2+

11

29

+1

13

+0

--

“8

0+

12

=9

2%

81

.25

+1

00

.00

40

.00

+9

1.6

63

6.2

5+

8.3

36

.25

+0

0.0

0-

-

5.P

AT

EL

48

+9

24

+4

24

+4

10

+2

1+

1-

“6

0+

10

=7

0%

80

.00

+9

0.0

04

0.0

0+

40

.00

40

.00

+3

0.0

01

6.6

6+

20

.00

1.6

6+

10

.00

-

6.S

C/S

T-

--

--

-

N.A

.38

+2

38

+2

=4

0%

--

--

--

100

.00+

100.

00

7.T

OT

AL

--

--

--

-3

67

+4

4=

41

1R

ES

PO

ND

EN

TS

TAB

LE N

O.

6-28

PA

RT

ICIP

AT

ION

IN

A D

ALI

T S

OC

IAL

FU

NC

TIO

N (

BIR

TH

, M

AR

RIA

GE

, D

EA

TH

,B

AR

MU

, B

HO

JAN

, B

HA

JAN

, P

AR

TY

)

(1)

U =

Urb

an (

2) R

= R

ural

(3)

T

= T

otal

(4)

+ =

Rur

al r

espo

nden

ts a

nd t

heir

perc

enta

ge

411

conditions of Dalits like removal of untouchability,

removal of idea of high & low, removal of birth based

social & religious disabilities, discrimination as per one’s

birth in a particular Varna or Caste cannot succeed

without sensitizing the Brahmins first and only after

Brahmins are duly sentsitized as per the modern concepts

of liberty, equality and fraternity & the democratic norms,

values of modern society, the social reforms should be

launched and the servics of Brahmins so sensitized can

be utilized.

The responses of the people were solicited about

their participation in the social function of Dalits like

Birth, Marriage, Death, Barmu (a custom of observance

of 12th day after the death of an individual), Bhojan

(Meals), Bhajan(devotional songs’ assembly of people),

party etc. Various responses received from people are as

under :-

Table N0.6-29

Yes, participated in Dalits’ social functions.


1. Vaishya 91.52% 100.00%

2. Kshatriya 86.07% 90.00%

3. OBC 81.25% 100.00%

412

4. Patel 80.00% 90.00%

5. Brahmin 62.74% 57.14%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 80.31% 87.42%

The Vaishyas are on top & the Brahmins are at

the bottom so far as participation in Dalits’ social

functions by them are concerned. 80.31% Caste Hindus

from urban area & 87.42% Caste Hindus from rural

area respectively have participation is an indicator of

positive thinking about the Caste Hindu people.

Table N0.6-30

Sometims participated in Dalits’ social functions.


1. Brahmin 62.74% 57.14%

2. Vaishya 62.37% 100.00%

3. Kshatriya 45.56% 45.45%

4. OBC 40.00% 91.66%

5. Patel 40.00% 40.00%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 50.13% 66.85%

Analysis will be done at the end of this question.

TableN0.6-31

Many times participated in Dalits’ social functions.

413


1. Kshatriya 40.50% 36.36%

2. Patel 40.00% 30.00%

3. OBC 36.25% 8.33%


5. Brahmin 13.72% 28.57%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 30.25% 20.65%

Table N0.6-32

No, Never participated in Dalits’ social functions.


1. Brahmin 23.52% 14.28%

2. Patel 16.66% 20.00%

3. Kshatriya 13.92% 9.09%


5. OBC 6.25% Nil

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 13.42% 8.67%

Table N0.6-33

Participated in Dalits’ Social functions as service providers.


1. Patel 1.66% 10.00%

2. Vaishya Nil 50.00%

3. OBC Nil Nil

414

4. Kshatriya Nil Nil

5. Brahmin Nil Nil

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 0.33% 12.00%

Table N0.6-34

Not participated in Dalits’ social functions because it

adversely affects our social status.




3. OBC Nil Nil

4. Patel Nil Nil

5. Brahmin Nil Nil

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.


The analysis about above data gives indications that

Caste Hindus having hard-core casteist mentality said not

only “no” but emphatic “Never” also which indicates

their strong aversion to Dalits but fortunately percentage

of such hard-core Caste Hindus is very low. Only

13.42% Caste Hindus from urban area & 8.67% from

rural area respectively have never participated in Dalits’

social occasions. It is also possible that they may not be

actually hard-core, but they would have got no chance to

415

do so, for example no friends in Dalits community.

But real hardcore are those who said they did not

participate in Dalits’ social functions because if they do

so, it will adversely affect their social status in public.

The percentage of such respondents is only 0.84% in

urban area and ‘Nil’ in rural area. 0.33% Caste Hindus

from urban area & 12.00% Caste Hindus from rural

area respectively have participated in Dalits’ social

funcitons only as service providers.

30.25% Caste Hindus from urban area and 20.65%

Caste Hindus from rural area respectively have

participated in Dalits social functions many times and

50.13% Caste Hindus from urban area and 66.85% Caste

Hindus from rural area respectively have sometimes

participated in Dalits’ social functions.

Thus, 80.31% Caste Hindus from urban area and

87.42% Caste Hindus from rural area had participated in

Dalits’ social functions. Whereas 50.13% and 66.85%

caste Hindus from urban and rural areas had participated

in Dalits’ social functions sometimes and 30.25% and

20.65% respectively from urban and rural areas caste

Hindus had participated in Dalits’ social functions many

times. Slight variations in percentage is there due to

some respondents ticking more than one options.

416

SR

.C

AS

TE

&N

EV

ER

ON

CE

CA

N N

OT

BE

NO

T IN

VIT

ED

ON

MA

NY

ALW

AYS

N.A

.TO

TAL

NO

. P

ER

CE

NTA

GE

CA

LLE

D,

OC

CA

SIO

N B

UT

AF

TE

RT

IME

SB

EIN

GR

ES

PO

ND

EN

TS

IT L

OW

ER

SO

CC

AS

ION

WA

S O

VE

R, T

HE

YIN

VIT

ED

SC

/ST

OU

R S

OC

IAL

WE

RE

CA

LLE

D A

S “G

HA

RA

K”

PR

ES

TIG

EF

OR

CO

LLE

CT

ING

FO

OD

AN

DW

ER

E G

IVE

N A

BIT

OF

FO

OD

SE

PA

RA

TE

LY IN

OP

EN

SPA

CE

SU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

-T

1.B

RA

HM

IN1

6+

02

6+

43

+1

3+

13

+1

--

51

+7

=5

8%

31

.37

+0

0.0

05

0.9

8+

57

.14

5.8

8+

14

.28

5.8

8+

14

.28

5.8

8+

14

.28

--

2.K

SH

AT

RIY

A1

5+

05

7+

81

+1

1+

05

+1

0

+1

-7

9+

11

=9

0%

18

.94

+0

0.0

07

2.1

5+

72

.72

1.2

6+

9.0

91

.26

+0

0.0

06

.32

+1

.26

0

.00

+9

.09

-

3.VA

ISH

YA1

8+

03

3+

15

+0

3+

00

+1

--

59

+2

=6

1%

30

.50

+0

0.0

05

5.9

3+

50

.00

8.4

7+

00

.00

5.0

8+

00

.00

00

.00

+5

0.0

0-

-

4.O

BC

9+

25

0+

93

+0

8+

04

+3

3+

1-

80

+1

2=

92

%1

1.2

5+

16

.66

62

.5+

75

.00

3.7

5+

00

.00

10

.00

+0

0.0

05

.00

+3

.75

3.7

5+

8.3

3-

5.P

AT

EL

12

+1

40

+6

0+

16

+2

2+

0-

-6

0+

10

=7

0%

20

.00

+1

0.0

06

6.6

6+

60

.00

00

.00

+1

0.0

01

0.0

0+

20

.00

2.3

3+

00

.00

--

6.S

C/S

T-

--

--

-

N.A

.38

+2

38

+2

=4

0%

--

--

--

10

0.00

+10

0.00

7.T

OT

AL

--

--

--

-

3

67+

44=

411

R

ES

PO

ND

EN

TS

TAB

LE N

O.

6-35

PA

RT

ICIP

AT

ION

OF

DA

LIT

S I

N C

ELE

BR

AT

ION

OF

SO

CIA

L F

UN

CT

ION

S O

F C

AS

TE

HIN

DU

S B

Y I

NV

ITA

TIO

N L

IKE

BIR

TH

DA

Y,

MA

RR

IAG

E,

DE

AT

H O

F R

ELA

TIV

E,

BA

RM

U,

BH

OJA

N,

BH

AJA

N E

TC

.

(1)

U =

Urb

an (

2) R

= R

ural

(3)

T

= T

otal

(4)

+ =

Rur

al r

espo

nden

ts a

nd t

heir

perc

enta

ge

417

Most of the respondents have given reasons of

participation to be acquaintance with Dalits.

This is good but it is a one way traffic. The

number of Caste Hindus participated in Dalits’ social

functions is greater than the number of Dalits

participation in Caste Hindus’ social functions will be

established from following data received from them on a

question whether they had ever invited Dalits on their

social occasions like birthday party, marriage function,

Barmu, Bhojan samarambh, Bhajan etc.

Table N0.6-36

The Dalits were never invited.




3. Patel 20.00% 10.00%


5. OBC 11.25% 16.66%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 22.41% 5.33%

Table N0.6-37

The Dalits can not be invited, it lowers our social prestige.

418



2. Brahmin 5.88% 14.28%

3. OBC 3.75% Nil

4. Kshatriya 1.26% 9.09%

5. Patel 00.00% 10.00%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 3.87% 6.67%

Table N0.6-38

Not invited on social occasions but after occasion was

over, they were called as “Gharak” for collecting food

and were given a bit of food separately in open space.


1. Patel 10.00% 20.00%

2. OBC 10.00% Nil

3. Brahmin 5.88% 14.28%



6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 6.44% 6.85%

Table N0.6-39

Once invited Dalits.


1. Kshatriya 72.15% 72.72%

419

2. Patel 66.66% Nil

3. OBC 62.5% 75.00%

4. Vaishya 55.93% 50.00%

5. Brahmin 50.98% 57.14%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 61.64% 50.97%

Table N0.6-40

Many times invited Dalits.


1. Kshatriya 6.32% 1.26%

2. Brahmin 5.88% 14.28%

3. OBC 5.00% 3.75%

4. Patel 2.33% Nil

5. Vaishya Nil 50.00%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 3.90% 13.85%

Table N0.6-41

Always invited Dalits.


1. OBC 3.75% 8.33%

2. Kshatriya Nil 9.09%

3. Brahmin - -

4. Vaishya - -

5. Patel - -

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 0.75% 3.48%

420

Table N0.6-42Summary

Sr. Responses Urban Rural

No.

(1) Always Invited 0.75% 3.48%

(2) Many times Invited 3.90% 13.85%

(3) Once invited 61.64% 50.97%

Total 66.29% 68.30%

(4) Invited as “Gharak” 6.44% 6.85%

(5) Never invited 22.41% 5.33%

(6) Cannot be invited 3.87% 6.67%

Total 32.72% 18.85%

22.41% Caste Hindus in urban area never invited

Dalits whereas 5.33% Caste Hindus from rural area

respectively never invited Dalits in their social functions.

Thus rural people are more open minded than their

counter parts in urban area.


Caste Hindus from rural area had invited Dalits as their

“Gharak” i.e. as per old “Jazamani” system. This is not

an equal & honourable interaction. The percentage of

Caste Hindus who always invited Dalits in their social

functions is very low i.e. 0.75% in urban area and

3.48% in rural area respectively. Only OBCs &

Kshatriyas have done this & none from Brahmins,

Vaishyas & Patels had ever done this. The percentage of

421

Caste Hindus who many times invited Dalits is also very

low. i.e. 3.90% from urban areas 13.85% from rural

areas respectively. Again Rural area Caste Hindus have

shown greater large heartedness than Caste Hindus

belonging to urban area. The percentage of Caste Hindus

who invited Dalits only once is the highest i.e. 61.64%

& 50.97% respectively from urban & rural areas. This is

much less particitpation by Dalits in social occasions of

the Caste Hindus whereas 80.31% & 87.42% Caste

Hindus respectively from urban area & rural area had

participated in Dalits’ social functions. Thus the

participation by Caste Hindus in Dalits’ social functions

is higher but participation of Dalits in Caste Hindus’

social functions is lower. This means that the Dalits

might be liberally inviting Caste Hindus in their social

functions but the Caste Hindus might not be inviting the

Dalits to their social functions so liberally. The social

interaction seems to be tardy & onesided. The invitation

or calling “Dalits” as “Gharak” is again a symbol of

superiority over them and it again speaks volume about

prevalence of untouchability in urban and rural area on

social occasions.

A wide spread complaints all over India have

emerged from mid-day-meal Scheme (Madhyan Bhojan

Yojna) that the children of Dalits are separately seated

from the children of the Caste Hindus and thus the evil

422

TAB

LE N

O.

6-43

LIK

ING

/DIS

LIK

ING

AB

OU

T M

EA

LS B

EIN

G T

AK

EN

TO

-GE

TH

ER

BY

TH

E D

ALI

TA

ND

CA

ST

E H

IND

U C

HIL

DR

EN

IN

SC

HO

OLS

OR

ELS

EW

HE

RE

SR

.C

AS

TE

&Y

ES

, IT

GIV

ES

NO

, IT

LE

AD

S T

OO

UR

CH

ILD

RE

NO

UR

CH

ILD

RE

N C

AN

GO

N.A

.TO

TAL

NO

. P

ER

NC

EN

TAG

EB

IRT

H T

OB

AD

CU

LTU

RE

ING

ET

PO

LUT

ED

AS

TR

AY IN

BA

DR

ES

PO

ND

EN

TS

SO

CIA

LO

UR

CH

ILD

RE

NC

OM

PA

NY

DU

E T

OC

OH

ES

ION

/C

OM

MU

NIT

Y M

EA

LSE

QU

ALI

TYU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-R-T

1.B

RA

HM

IN3

8+

61

0+

11

+0

2+

0-

51

+7

=5

8%

74

.50

+8

5.7

1%

19

.60

+1

4.2

8%

1.9

6+

0%

3.9

2+

0%

-

2.K

SH

AT

RIY

A6

9+

10

7+

1-

3+

0-

79

+1

1=

90

%8

7.3

4+

90

.90

%8

.86

+9

.09

%-

3.7

9+

0%

-

3.VA

ISH

YA4

9+

25

+0

-5

+0

-5

9+

2=

61

%8

3.0

5+

10

0%

8.4

7+

0%

-8

.47

+0

%-

4.O

BC

61

+1

11

3+

04

+1

2+

0-

80

+1

2=

92

%7

6.2

5+

91

.16

%1

6.2

5+

0%

5.0

+8

.33

%2

.5+

0%

-

5.P

AT

EL

52

+9

6+

1-

2+

0-

60

+1

0=

70

%8

6.6

6+

90

.0%

10

.00

+1

0.0

0%

-3

.33

+0

%-

6.S

C/S

T-

--

-N

.A.3

8+

23

8+

2=

40

%7.

TO

TA

L-

--

--

36

7+

44

=4

11

R

ES

PO

ND

EN

TS

(1)

U =

Urb

an (

2) R

= R

ural

(3)

T

= T

otal

(4)

+ =

Rur

al r

espo

nden

ts a

nd t

heir

perc

enta

ge

423

of untouchability, separation on the basis of high & low

caste based discrimination etc. are practised in the school

itself which is the place of foundation of shaping India’s

destiny. Hence a question was asked to the Caste Hindus

whether they would like their children in the school or

else where (on picnic spot etc.) sitting together and

taking their meals with Dalits’ children. Their responses

as under :-

Table N0.6-44

Yes, it gives birth to social cohesion/ equality


1. Kshatriya 87.34% 90.90%

2. Patel 86.66% 90.00%

3. Vaishya 83.05% 100.00%

4. OBC 76.25% 91.16%

5. Brahmin 74.50% 85.71%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 81.56% 91.55%

Table N0.6-45

No, it leads to bad culture in our children.


1. Brahmin 19.60% 14.28%

2. OBC 16.25% Nil

3. Patel 10.00% 10.00%

424

4. Kshatriya 8.86% 9.09%


6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 12.63% 6.67%

Table N0.6-46

Our children get polluted by Dalits’ children.


1. OBC 5.00% 8.33%


3. Kshatriya - -

4. Vaishya - -

5. Patel - -

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 1.39% 1.66%

Table N0.6-47

Our children can go astray in the bad company of

Dalits’ children due to community meals.





4. Patel 3.33% Nil

5. OBC 2.50% Nil

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.


425

Record number of respondents i.e. 81.56% Caste

Hindus from urban area & still more 91.55% Caste

Hindus from rural area respectively felt that community

meals creates social cohesion & unity and they welcome

dinning together of their children with Dalits’ children in

school. Only small percentage of respondents i.e. 12.63%

& 6.67% respectively from urban and rural area felt

that it will lead to development of bad culture in their

children. 1.39% & 1.66% respectively from urban &

rural areas, Caste Hindus (namely OBCs & Brahmins)

believed that their children will be polluted by such

community meals to-gether by all the school children

whereas 4.40% Caste Hindus from urban area felt that

their children will go astray in bad company of Dalits’

children due to community meals (Samuh Bhojan) in

schools. Only these very few people create problems

throughout the country in this regard. They will be there

any where.

Social acceptance or non-acceptance of Dalits is

discernible in responses to a question whether they would

like to give residential facility to educated Dalits like

Government officers, employees, teachers, professors in

their village, city in a Caste Hindus’ area/mohallah/pol/

society/colony/kasba etc.? Responses are anyalysed as

under :-

426

SR

.C

AS

TE

&Y

ES

NO

, N

OT

NE

VE

RIF

TH

EY

RE

MA

INE

VE

N T

HE

RE

N.A

. BE

ING

TOTA

LN

O.

PE

RN

CE

NTA

GE

AT A

LLO

UR

“YE

SM

EN

” &S

HA

DO

W I

S N

OT

SC

/ST

RE

SP

ON

DE

NT

SU

ND

ER

OU

R C

ON

TR

OL

AC

CE

PTA

BLE

TO

US

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

-T

1.B

RA

HM

IN4

0+

66

+1

1+

03

+0

1+

0-

51

+7

=5

8%

78

.43

+8

5.7

11

.76

+1

4.2

01

.96

+0

0.0

05

.88

+0

0.0

01

.96

+0

0.0

0-

2.K

SH

AT

RIY

A7

0+

96

+1

2+

00

+1

1+

07

9+

11

=9

0%

88

.60

+8

1.8

17

.59

+9

.00

2.5

3+

00

.00

00

.00

+9

.09

1.2

6+

00

.00

-

3.VA

ISH

YA4

5+

27

+0

1+

03

+0

3+

0-

9+

2=

61

%7

6.2

7+

10

0.0

01

1.8

6+

00

.00

16

.94

+0

0.0

05

.08

+0

0.0

05

.08

+0

0.0

0-

4.O

BC

65

+1

04

+1

5+

05

+1

1+

0-

80

+1

2=

92

%8

1.2

5+

83

.33

5.0

0+

8.3

36

.25

+0

0.0

06

.25

+8

.33

1.2

5+

00

.00

-

5.P

AT

EL

50

+1

06

+0

1+

03

+0

--

60

+1

0=

70

%8

3.3

3+

10

0.0

01

0.0

0+

00

.00

1.6

6+

00

.00

5.0

0+

00

.00

--

6.S

C/S

T-

--

--

38

+2

38

+2

=4

0%

--

--

-10

0.00

+10

0.00

7.T

OT

AL

--

--

--

36

7+

44

=4

11

R

ES

PO

ND

EN

TS

TAB

LE N

O.

6-48

WO

ULD

YO

U L

IKE

TO

GIV

E R

ES

IDE

NT

IAL

FAC

ILIT

Y T

O E

DU

CA

TE

D,

WE

LL P

LAC

ED

DA

LIT

S (

DO

ING

GO

OD

JO

B/O

CC

UP

AT

ION

) LI

KE

GO

VT.

OF

FIC

ER

S,

EM

PLO

YE

ES

, T

EA

CH

ER

S,

PR

OF

ES

SO

RS

IN

YO

UR

VIL

LAG

E,

CIT

Y I

N A

CA

ST

E H

IND

U A

RE

A/M

OH

ALL

A/P

OL/

SO

CIE

TY

/CO

LON

Y/K

AS

BA

ET

C.

?

(1)

U =

Urb

an (

2) R

= R

ural

(3)

T

= T

otal

(4)

+ =

Rur

al r

espo

nden

ts a

nd t

heir

perc

enta

ge

427

Table N0.6-49

Willing to give residential facility to Dalits.


1. Kshatriya 88.60% 81.81%

2. Patel 83.33% 100.00%

3. OBC 81.25% 83.33%

4. Brahmin 78.43% 85.70%

5. Vaishya 76.27% 100.00%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 81.57% 90.26%

Table N0.6-50

No, not at all willing to give residential facility to the

Dalits.



2. Brahmin 11.76% 14.20%

3. Patel 10.00% Nil

4. Kshatriya 7.59% 9.00%

5. OBC 5.00% 8.33%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 9.24% 6.30%

428

Table N0.6-51

Never Dalits will be given residential facility.



2. OBC 6.25% Nil



5. Patel 1.66% Nil

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.


Table N0.6-52

If they remain our ‘yes man’/henchman and under our

control then residential accommodation can be given to

the Dalits.


1. OBC 6.25% 8.33%



4. Patel 5.00% Nil

5. Kshatriya Nil 9.09%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 4.44% 3.48%

429

Table N0.6-53

Even the shadow of Dalit is not acceptable to us.

(Caste Hindus)




3. Kshatriya 1.26% 75.00%

4. OBC 1.25% 50.00%

5. Patel - -

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 1.91% 25.00%

The SCs/STs are facing acute problems of housing

as no builders even in the Metropolitan areas like

Ahmedabad city which is going to become a Megha city

in near future sells flats, tenaments etc. to even few

educated & Highly placed SCs/STs. They first ask caste

related question and find out SCs/STs & particularly

Scheduled Caste, and then they (builders) straightaway

refuse12 accommodation to the members belonging to the

Scheduled Castes. Nobody gets tenaments/flats by

concealing his caste as these builders ask them to bring

their Caste certificates or school leaving certificates in

which caste is clearly mentioned so that not even by a

mistake persons belonging to these castes get into their

residential complexes. This is the height of social

430

unacceptability of the SCs/STs by the Caste Hindus. Now

let us examine how this trait is reflected here in their

responses.

81.57% and 90.26% Caste Hindus respectively

from urban & rural area have expressed affirmation but

this is a treachery only as in fact no Caste Hindu wants

a member of Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe as his

neighbour. Take the example of 2001 earthquake of

Kutchh district where none from Caste Hindus was

prepared to even live side by side in the land to be

allotted for reconstruction of houses. This information

furnished by them is actually against the ground realities.

9.24% & 6.30% Caste Hindus respectively from

urban area & rural area have openly said “No, Not at

all” to accommodate SCs/STs in their society, locality etc.

Whereas 5.56% Caste Hindus from urban area are frank

when they said “Never”. On the other hand the ground

reality is few caste Hindus have expressed conditional

preparedness to accept SCs/STs only if the SCs/STs give

up their independence and become their “yesman,”

“henchman”and remain under their control.

Further data indicates the strongest hatred, contempt

and scorn of the Vaishyas, Brahmins, Kshatriyas & OBCs

for the SCs/STs when they expressed that even the

Scheduled Castes’ & Scheduled Tribes’ shadow is not

431

SR

.C

AS

TE&

YES

NO

NEV

ERW

E M

AYTH

E ‘S

AN

ATA

N’

N.A

.TO

TAL

NO

. P

ER

CE

NTA

GE

INC

UR

SIN

DH

AR

MA

WIL

LR

ES

PO

ND

EN

TS

BY

DO

ING

BE

PO

LLU

TED

SO

BY

DO

ING

TH

ISU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-R-T

1.B

RA

HM

IN2

9+

41

0+

23

+1

4+

08

+0

-5

1+

7=

58

%5

6.8

6+

57

.14

19

.60

+2

8.5

75

.88

+1

4.2

81

.96

+0

0.0

01

5.6

8+

00

.00

-

2.K

SH

AT

RIY

A6

7+

81

0+

1-

-2

+2

-7

9+

11

=9

0%

84

.81

+7

2.7

21

2.6

5+

9.0

0-

-2

.53

+1

8.1

8-

3.VA

ISH

YA3

5+

12

1+

12

+0

-1

+0

-5

9+

2=

61

%5

9.3

2+

50

.00

35

.59

+5

0.0

03

.38

+0

0.0

0-

1.6

9+

00

.00

-

4.O

BC

48

+3

24

+9

4+

03

+0

1+

1-

80

+1

2=

92

%6

0.0

0+

25

.00

30

.00

+7

5.0

05

.00

+0

0.0

03

.75

+0

0.0

01

.25

+8

.33

-

5.P

AT

EL

46

+5

12

+5

1+

01

+0

--

60

+1

0=

70

%7

6.6

6+

50

.00

20

.00

+5

0.0

01

.66

+0

0.0

01

.66

+0

0.0

0-

-

6.S

C/S

T3

5+

21

+0

-1

+0

-1

+0

38

+2

=4

0%

92

.10

+1

00

.00

2.6

3+

00

.00

-2

.63

+0

0.0

0-

2.6

3+

00

.00

7.T

OT

AL

--

--

--

36

7+

44

=4

11

R

ES

PO

ND

EN

TS

TAB

LE N

O.

6-54

DA

LIT

S A

S R

ELI

GIO

US

PR

IES

TS

& N

ON

DA

LIT

S’

RE

AC

TIO

N.

(1)

U =

Urb

an (

2) R

= R

ural

(3)

T

= T

otal

(4)

+ =

Rur

al r

espo

nden

ts a

nd t

heir

perc

enta

ge

432

acceptable by them. Even an iota of acceptance of Dalits

by these people cannot be expected at all looking to

their explosive & acidic strongest caste prejudice. It is

shocking that such people are from urban area of

Ahmedabad city and not from rural areas. Urbanization,

industrialisation, democratization, etc., in fact nothing has

left any mark on them. Fortunately percentage of such

persons is only 1.91%. Others might be nurturing such

mindset but they might be wise than this group as they

might not have wisely expressed it openly.

It was asked whether they would like the

appointments of Dalits, who are well-versed in religious

rites & rituals in religious places like temple, religious

institutions etc. Data given in Table N0.6.55 shows

their responses as under :-

Table N0.6-55

Acceptance of appointments of Dalits in religious places

for officiation of religious rites and rituals


1. Kshatriya 84.81% 72.72%

2. Patel 76.66% 50.00%

3. OBC 60.00% 25.00%

4. Vaishya 59.32% 50.00%

5. Brahmin 56.86% 57.14%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 67.53% 50.97%

433

Table N0.6-56

Non-acceptance of Dalits in religious places for

officiation of religious rites and rituals.


1. Vaishya 35.59% 50.00%

2. OBC 30.00% 75.00%

3. Patel 20.00% 50.00%

4. Brahmin 19.60% 28.57%

5. Kshatriya 12.65% 9.00%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Averag% - 23.56% 42.51%

Table N0.6-57

Dalits shall never be accepted as priests in Hindu

religious places


1. Brahmin 5.88% 14.28%

2. OBC 5.00% Nil


4. Patel 1.66% Nil

5. Kshatriya - -

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 3.18% 2.85%

434

Table N0.6-58

Caste Hindus would incur sin if Dalits are appointed in

religious places for performance of rites and rituals.


1. OBC 3.75% Nil


3. Patel 1.66% Nil

4. Kshatriya - -

5. Vaishya - -

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.


Table N0.6-59

The “Sanatan Dharma” will be polluted by doing this.



2. Kshatriya 2.53% 18.18%


4. OBC 1.25% 8.33%

5. Patel - -

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 4.23% 5.30%

435

Table N0.6-60

Summary Urban Rural

(1) Yes 67.53% 50.97%

(2) No 23.50% 42.51%

(3) Never 3.18% 2.85%

(4) Incur sin 1.47% Nil

(5) “Sanatan Dharma” 4.23% 5.30%

will be polluted.

Table N0.6-61

Summary Urban Rural

Positive(+) 67.53% 50.97%

Negative(-) 32.38% 50.66%

Total 35.09% 00.31%

Thus, 67.53% Caste Hindus from urban area &

50.97% Caste Hindus respectively from rural area would

like the well-versed Dalits in religion matters to be

oppointed in temples as priests and in other religious

institutions.

In all 32.38% and 50.66% Caste Hindus

respectively from urban & rural areas are against such

appointments of Dalits in temples & religious institutions.

Sin & pollution to “Sanatan Dharm” are grounds for

436

SR

.C

AS

TE

&Y

ES

NO

NE

VE

RIF

WE

DO

SO

, WE

INC

UR

N.A

.TO

TAL

NO

. P

ER

CE

NTA

GE

SIN

& G

ET

RE

LIG

IOU

SLY

PO

LLU

TE

DR

ES

PO

ND

EN

TS

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

U-R

-T

1.B

RA

HM

IN2

3+

21

8+

49

+1

1+

0-

51

+7

=5

8%

49

.09

+2

8.5

73

2.2

9+

57

.14

17

.64

+1

4.2

81

.96

+0

0.0

0-

2.K

SH

AT

RIY

A5

0+

72

4+

41

+0

4+

0-

79

+1

1=

90

%6

3.2

9+

63

.63

30

.37

+3

6.3

61

.26

+0

0.0

05

.00

+0

0.0

0-

3.VA

ISH

YA2

2+

13

6+

11

+0

--

59

+2

=6

1%

37

.28

+5

0.0

06

0.0

1+

50

.00

1.6

9+

00

.00

--

4.O

BC

43

+3

32

+8

5+

1-

-8

0+

12

=9

2%

53

.75

+2

5.0

04

0.0

0+

66

.66

6.2

5+

8.3

3-

-

5.P

AT

EL

42

+2

15

+8

2+

01

+0

-6

0+

10

=7

0%

70

.2+

20

.00

25

.00

+8

0.0

03

.33

+0

0.0

01

.66

+0

0.0

0-

6.S

C/S

T2

8+

2-

-1

+0

9+

03

8+

2=

40

%7

3.6

8+

10

0.0

0-

-2

.63

+0

0.0

02

3.6

8+

00

.00

7.T

OT

AL

--

--

-3

67

+4

4=

41

1

RE

SP

ON

DE

NT

S

TAB

LE N

O.

6-62

OF

FIC

IAT

ION

OF

PU

JA/R

ITE

S/R

ITU

ALS

BY

DA

LIT

AN

D T

HE

IR A

CC

EP

TAN

CE

/N

ON

-AC

CE

PTA

NC

E B

Y C

AS

TE

HIN

DU

S

(1)

U =

Urb

an (

2) R

= R

ural

(3)

T

= T

otal

(4)

+ =

Rur

al r

espo

nden

ts a

nd t

heir

perc

enta

ge

437

their such view point for a negative opinion which

appear prima facie absurd from scientific point of view.

For further probing their real thinking and

convictions about acceptability of Dalits they were asked

whether they would like to get such religious rites and

rituals performed by Dalits who are knowledgeable and

proficient in this connection, on birth, marriage or any

such other occasions? Data given in Table N0.6-63 gave

us picture as undeer:-

Table N0.6-63

Agreeable in acceptance of Dalits for officiation of

religious rites and rituals.


1. Patel 70.2% 20.00%

2. Kshatriya 63.29% 63.63%

3. OBC 53.75% 25.00%

4. Brahmin 49.09% 28.57%

5. Vaishya 37.28% 50.00%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 54.72% 37.44%

Table N0.6-64

Non-acceptance of Dalits for officiation of religious rites and rituals.


1. Vaishya 60.00% 50.00%

2. OBC 40.00% 66.66%

438

3. Brahmin 32.29% 57.14%

4. Kshatriya 30.37% 36.36%

5. Patel 25.00% 80.00%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 37.53% 58.03%

Table N0.6-65

Dalits shall never be acceptable for officiating religious

rites and rituals.


1. Brahmin 17.64% 14.28%

2. OBC 6.25% 8.33%

3. Patel 3.33% Nil



6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 6.03% 4.52%

Table N0.6-66

Officiation of religious rites and rituals will incur sin and

religious pollution to the Caste Hindus.




439

3. Patel 1.66% Nil

4. Vaishya - -

5. OBC - -

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.


Thus, 54.72% Caste Hindus from urban area and

37.44% Caste Hindus from rural area respectively

expressed readiness to get religious rites & rituals

performed by the Dalits who are knowledgeable and

proficient in these matters.

37.53% Caste Hindus from urban area & 58.03%

Caste Hindus from rural area respectively have said “No”

in this regard. They do not want to accept Dalits for

performance of religious rites & rituals even though the

Dalits might have knowledge and proficiency in such

matters. Why do they object such performance of rites &

rituals by Dalits? The answer is because they are Dalits

and considered to be untouchables as no other reason

can be offered by any one in this regard. The Dalits are

also Hindus & the proposition is about Dalits who are

knowledgeable and proficient in Hindu rites & rituals

and they are so, and yet 37.53% Caste Hindus in urban

area & 58.03% Caste Hindus in rural area are not

accepting Dalits in this regard.

440

There are some other Caste Hindus with even

stronger Caste prejudice who go a step further & say

that never they have accepted & never they will accept

Dalits for performance of religious rites and rituals and

percentage of such Caste Hindu is 6.03% in urban area

& 04.52% in rural area who are seen determined never

to get their religious rites and rituals performed by the

Dalits.

Still worse is the situation where 1.72% Caste

Hindus from urban area feel that if they call Dalit

priests who are knowledgeable & proficient for

performance of their rites and rituals then they will incur

sin and religiously get polluted. Shockingly these are

Caste Hindus from Kshatriya, Brahmin & Patel Castes

only & they are from Metropolitan urban area & they

are educated & modern and yet surprisingly their thinking

and mindset is outdated, obsolete & obysmally dismal.

None from village area holds such putrefied view points

& hence really the village people deserve our unlimited

accolodes.

To test the respondents’ preparedness about

acceptability of SCs/STs in private sectors, they were

asked whether would it be appropriate to enact a law or

frame rules for reservation in private industries for

Dalits? Their responses are as under :-

441

Table N0.6-67

Opinion in favour of enacting a Law or framing of

Rules for reservation for SCs/STs in Private Industries.


1. Kshatriya 43.93% 18.18%

2. OBC 35.00% 33.33%

3. Patel 33.33% 30.00%

4. Brahmin 19.60% 14.28%


6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 29.76% 19.15%

Table N0.6-68

No reservation should be made for SCs/STs in Private

Industries.


1. Brahmin 49.01% 57.14%

2. Vaishya 44.60% 50.00%

3. OBC 38.75% 25.00%

4. Patel 33.33% 6.66%

5. Kshatriya 29.11% 27.27%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 38.96% 33.21%

442

Table N0.6-69

Never: The SCs/STs should never be provided reservation

in Private Industries.




3. OBC 5.00% 8.33%

4. Patel 5.00% Nil


6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 5.96% 1.66%

Table N0.6-70

The matter of reservation in Private Industries should be

left to the discretion and sweet will of the industrialists.


1. Vaishya 28.81% 50.00%

2. Patel 28.33% 30.00%

3. Brahmin 25.49% 28.57%

4. Kshatriya 24.50% 54.54%

5. OBC 22.50% 33.33%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 25.92% 39.28%

Only 29.76% Caste Hindus from urban area &

443

19.15% Caste Hindus from rural area respectively are in

favour of formulation or enactment of law or rules

providing for reservation to SCs/STs in private industries.


Caste Hindus from rural area respectively have said “No”

for reservation in private industries. The percentage of

Caste Hindus against such reservation in private

industries is higher than those who are in favour of it

as mentioned above. This is also a case of non-

acceptability of Dalits by the Caste Hindus as it is not

asked whether in your private industries reservation for

SCs/STs should be made by law or rules. Industries

belonging not to the respondents but to others where

accommodation of Dalits is objected to by the Caste

Hindus.

The third group of Caste Hindus are even having

harder view and prejudice when they respond with the

word “Never”. 5.96% Caste Hindus from urban area &

1.66% Caste Hindus from rural area have respectively

given such strong negative opinion.

Yet another group of Caste Hindus seen quite

clear, diplomatic & politician like who opined that

whether reservation in private industries should be done

by any act or rules should be left to the discretion &

sweet will of the industrialists. The number of persons

444

SR

.C

AS

TE

&N

EV

ER

, IN

IF T

HE

RE

IS N

O C

AS

TE

IF T

HE

RE

IS N

O O

TH

ER

ALW

AYS

P

RE

FE

RN

.A.

TOTA

LN

O.

P

ER

CE

NTA

GE

NO

HIN

DU

S’ T

EA

STA

LL,

RE

ME

DY

AVA

ILA

BLE

RE

SP

ON

DE

NT

SC

IRC

UM

S-

HO

TE

L, P

AA

N S

HO

PT

O S

AT

ISF

Y H

UN

GE

R,

TAN

CE

SE

TC

. IN

TH

E V

ICIN

ITY

QU

EN

CH

TH

IRS

T E

TC

.U

-RU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-R-T

1.B

RA

HM

IN1

0+

06

+2

7+

12

8+

4-

51

+7

=5

8%

19

.60

+0

0.0

01

1.7

6+

28

.52

13

.72

+1

4.2

85

4.9

0+

57

.14

-

2.K

SH

AT

RIY

A1

5+

11

2+

17

+1

45

+8

-7

9+

11

=9

0%

18

.98

+9

.09

15

.18

+9

.09

8.8

6+

9.0

95

6.9

6+

72

.72

-

3.VA

ISH

YA3

+0

1+

13

+0

52

+1

-5

9+

2=

61

%5

.08

+0

0.0

01

.69

+5

0.0

05

.8+

00

.00

88

.13

+5

0.0

0-

4.O

BC

15

+1

8+

12

0+

33

7+

7-

80

+1

2=

92

%1

8.7

5+

8.3

31

0.0

0+

8.3

32

5.0

0+

25

.00

46

.25

+5

8.3

3-

5.P

AT

EL

2+

19

+0

7+

04

2+

9-

60

+1

0=

70

%3

.33

+1

0.0

01

5.0

0+

00

.00

11

.66

+0

0.0

07

0.0

0+

90

.00

-

6.S

C/S

T-

--

-3

8+

23

8+

2=

40

%-

--

-10

0.00

+10

0.00

7.T

OT

AL

--

--

-3

67

+4

4=

41

1R

ES

PO

ND

EN

TS

TAB

LE N

O.

6-71

WO

ULD

YO

U L

IKE

TO

TA

KE

TE

A,

SN

AC

KS

, M

EA

LS,

PA

AN

FR

OM

DA

LIT

ST

EA

VE

ND

OR

S,

HO

TE

L O

WN

ER

S,

LOD

GE

, P

AA

N S

HO

P O

WN

ER

S E

TC

. ?

(1)

U =

Urb

an (

2) R

= R

ural

(3)

T

= T

otal

(4)

+ =

Rur

al r

espo

nden

ts a

nd t

heir

perc

enta

ge

445

holding this view is 25.92% from urban area & 39.28%

from rural areas respectively.

Thus, the non-acceptance level in private industries

of SCs/STs by Caste Hindus comes to 70.84% in urban

area & 74.15% in rural area respectively. The option “it

should be left to the discretion of the industrialists” is

taken as a very cleaver, diplomatic answer & it is taken

as negative response.

To further test the acceptability aspect of the Caste

Hindus, they were asked whether would they like to take

meals, tea, snacks, paan from Dalit tea vendors, hotel

owners, Lodge owners, Paan shop owners? Their

responses are as under :-

Table N0.6-72

Never, in no circumstances eatables from Dalit

Shopkeepers are acceptable.



2. Kshatriya 18.98% 9.09%

3. OBC 18.75% 8.33%


5. Patel 3.33% 10.00%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 13.14% 5.48%

446

Table N0.6-73

If there is no Caste Hindus’ tea stall, hotel, Paan shop

etc. in the near vicinity then the eatables from the Dalit

shops/hotels can be accepted.


1. Kshatriya 15.18% 9.09%

2. Patel 15.00% Nil

3. Brahmin 11.76% 28.52%

4. OBC 10.00% 8.33%

5. Vaishya 1.69% 50.00%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 53.63% 19.18%

Table N0.6-74

If there is no other remedy available to satisfy hunger,

quench thirst etc. then only eatables from Dalit shops/

hotels are acceptable.


1. OBC 25.00% 25.00%

2. Brahmin 13.72% 14.28%

3. Patel 11.66% Nil

4. Kshatriya 8.86% 9.09%


6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 13.00% 9.67%

447

Table N0.6-75

Always prefer to accept eatables from Dalit shopkeepers.


1. Vaishya 88.13% 50.00%

2. Patel 70.00% 90.00%

3. Kshatriya 56.96% 72.72%

4. Brahmin 54.90% 57.14%

5. OBC 46.25% 58.33%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 63.24% 65.63%

The “No, Never” is clear non-acceptance with

greater Caste prejudice. The second response is also no

acceptance of Dalits as they (Caste Hindus) will take the

services of Caste Hindu caterers only but in the

situation of helplessness where Caste Hindu caterers are

not there, they may accept tea, snacks, Paan etc. from

Dalit shopkeepers. Third response is also negative and

amounts to non-acceptance of Dalits that if they suffer

hunger & thirst & no other remedy is available, then

only they will accept Tea, Paan, Snacks etc. from Dalit

shopkeepers, otherwise not. The summary of non-

acceptance is as under :-

448

Table N0.6-76

Summary

Sr. Urban Plus Rural Matters

No.

(1) 13.14% + 5.18% Never, in no circumstances.

(2) 53.63% + 19.18% In absence of Caste Hindu

caterers.

(3) 13.00 + 9.67% If no other remedy is available.

Total 79.77% + 34.03% -

Thus 79.77% Caste Hindus from urban area and

34.03% Caste Hindus from rural areas are not prepared

to take meals, tea, snacks, paan etc. from Dalit shop

owners, vendors etc.


Caste Hindus from rural area respectively said that they

always prefer to take meals, tea, snacks, paan etc. from

Dalits. The figure from rural area tally with the figure

of non-acceptance percentage but the figure of 63.24%

from urban Caste Hindus does not tally as these

respondents might have ticked more than two options. So

we prefer to place reliance on percentage mentioned in

1,2,3 points mentioned above and the total percentage

arrived at from those 3 Points.

Now the acceptability theory reaches a piquant

situation for the Caste Hindus when they were asked, “If

449

SR

.C

AS

TE

&N

OT

FR

OM

FR

OM

CA

ST

EF

RO

M D

ALI

TS

CA

N’T

SAY

I DO

N’T

WA

NT

N.A

.TO

TAL

NO

.

PE

RC

EN

TAG

ED

ALI

TS

HIN

DU

SA

NY

TH

ING

TO

DE

CLA

RE

RE

SP

ON

DE

NT

ST

HIS

MAT

TE

RU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-R-T

1.B

RA

HM

IN5

+0

6+

15

+0

25

+3

10

+3

-5

1+

7=

58

%9

.80

+0

0.0

01

1.7

6+

14

.28

9.8

0+

00

.00

49

.01

+4

2.8

51

9.6

0+

42

.85

-

2.K

SH

AT

RIY

A1

6+

13

+0

3+

13

3+

42

4+

5-

79

+1

1=

90

%2

0.2

5+

9.0

93

.79

+0

0.0

03

.79

+9

.09

41

.77

+3

6.3

63

0.3

7+

45

.45

-

3.VA

ISH

YA4

+0

13

+0

4+

11

9+

01

8+

11

+0

(F

RO

M W

HE

RE

%6

.77

+0

0.0

02

2.3

+0

0.0

06

.77

+5

0.0

03

2.2

0+

00

.00

22

.78

+5

0.0

01

.69

+0

0.0

0

C

HE

AP

LY5

9+

2=

61

AVA

ILA

BLE

)

4.O

BC

11

+2

12

+0

2+

23

7+

31

8+

5-

80

+1

2=

92

%1

3.7

5+

16

.65

15

.00

+0

0.0

02

.5+

16

.66

46

.25

+2

5.0

02

2.5

+4

1.6

6-

5.P

AT

EL

9+

19

+1

3+

03

0+

39

+4

-6

0+

10

=7

0%

15

.00

+1

0.0

01

5.0

0+

10

.00

5.0

0+

00

.00

50

.00

+3

0.0

01

5.0

0+

40

.00

6.S

C/S

T-

--

--

38

+2

38

+2

=4

0%

--

--

-10

0.00

+10

0.00

7.T

OT

AL

--

--

--

36

7+

44

=4

11

RE

SP

ON

DE

NT

S

(1)

U =

Urb

an (

2) R

= R

ural

(3)

T

= T

otal

(4)

+ =

Rur

al r

espo

nden

ts a

nd t

heir

perc

enta

ge

TAB

LE N

O.

6-77

AC

CE

PTA

NC

E /

NO

N A

CC

EP

TAN

CE

OF

DA

LIT

S’

ETA

BLE

S/C

OM

MO

DIT

IES

WIT

H G

OO

DQ

UA

LIT

Y A

ND

AT

CH

EA

PE

R R

AT

ES

TH

AN

TH

E C

AS

TE

HIN

DU

S’.

450

tea, Paan, bidi, meals etc. are served by Dalits at a very

cheap rates and with good quality and such stuff is

served by others (Caste Hindus) at higher rates and of

lower quality, then from whom would you accept such

services?” Their responses are as under :-

Table N0.6-78

Not from Dalits.


1. Kshatriya 20.25% 9.09%

2. Patel 15.00% 10.00%

3. OBC 13.75% 16.65%



6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 65.57% 7.14%

Table N0.6-79

From Caste Hindus.



2. Patel 15.00% Nil

3. OBC 15.00% Nil

4. Brahmin 11.76% 14.28%


6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 13.57% 4.85%

451

Table No.6-80

From Dalits.



2. Vaishya 6.77% 50.00%

3. Patel 5.00% Nil

4. Kshatriya 3.79% 9.09%

5. OBC 2.50% 16.16%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 55.72% 15.05%

Table N0.81

Cann’t say anything.


1. Patel 50.00% 30.00%

2. Brahmin 49.01% 42.85%

3. OBC 46.25% 25.00%

4. Kshatriya 41.77% 36.36%

5. Vaishya 32.20% 00.00%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 43.84% 26.84%

Table N0.6-82

I don’t want to declare this matter.

452


1. Kshatriya 30.37% 45.45%

2. Vaishya 22.78% 50.00%

3. OBC 22.50% 41.66%

4. Brahmin 19.60% 42.85%

5. Patel 15.00% 40.00%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 22.05% 43.99%

NOTE :- 1.69% - from where it is cheaply available

(one Vaishya)

This is a queer case of non-acceptability of Dalits

by the Caste Hindus. 65.57% Caste Hindus from urban

area & 7.14% Caste Hindus from rural area

respectively do not prefere to accept things from Dalits

even when the same is of good quality & sold at

cheaper rates as compared to the quality & rate of the

Caste Hindus’ goods, commodities & victual. 13.57%

from urban and 4.85% from rural area respectively will

accept all items from Caste Hindus only and not from

Dalits without any other consideration other than Caste &

Caste based idea of high & low and the untouchability.

55.72% and 15.05% Caste Hindus from urban & rural

area respectively said that they will purchase such stuff

from Dalits.

453

43.84% Caste Hindus from urban area and 26.84%

Caste Hindus from rural area respectively have said that

they can’t say anything in this regards. They are in fact,

called proverbial fence-sitters.


Caste Hindus from rural area respectively said that they

do not want to declare this matter. A diplomatic reply in

fact.

Table N0.6-83

Summary of acceptability/non-acceptability of victual and

goods from Dalit shopkeepers.

Sr. Item Urban Rural

No.

(1) Not from Dalits 65.57% 7.14%

(2) From Caste Hindus 13.57% 4.85%

(3) Can’t say anything 43.84% 26.84%

(4) Don’t want to declare 22.05% 43.99%

this matter.

Total 145.03% 82.82%

(5) From Dalits (-) 55.72% 15.05%

Total (=) 89.31% 67.77%

Thus 89.31% Caste Hindus from urban area &

67.77% Caste Hindus from rural area respectively are not

454

TAB

LE N

O.

6-84

RE

LAT

ION

SH

IP W

ITH

DA

LIT

S &

AD

IVA

SIS

SR

.C

AS

TE

&V

ER

Y C

LOS

EC

LOS

EAV

ER

AG

EN

OT

AT

ALL

N.A

.TO

TAL

NO

.P

ER

CE

NTA

GE

RE

SP

ON

DE

NT

SU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-RU

-R-T

1.B

RA

HM

IN3

+2

14

+1

26

+4

8+

0-

51

+7

=5

8%

5.8

8+

28

.57

22

.45

+1

4.2

85

.88

+2

8.5

72

7.4

5+

00

.00

-

2.K

SH

AT

RIY

A7

+4

22

+2

47

+4

3+

1-

79

+1

1=

90

%8

.86

+3

6.3

62

7.8

4+

18

.18

59

.49

+3

6.3

63

.79

+9

.09

-

3.VA

ISH

YA6

+1

23

+0

23

+1

7+

0-

59

+2

=6

1%

10

.16

+5

0.0

03

8.9

8+

00

.00

38

.98

+5

0.0

01

1.8

6+

00

.00

-

4.O

BC

11

+1

21

+4

44

+7

4+

0-

80

+1

2=

92

%1

3.7

5+

8.3

32

6.2

5+

33

.33

55

.00

+5

8.3

35

.00

+0

0.0

0-

5.P

AT

EL

5+

16

+5

36

+2

13

+2

-6

0+

10

=7

0%

8.3

3+

10

.00

10

.00

+5

0.0

06

0.0

0+

20

.00

21

.66

+2

0.0

0-

6.S

C/S

T-

--

-3

8+

23

8+

2=

40

%-

--

-10

0.00

+10

0.00

7.T

OT

AL

--

--

-3

67

+4

4=

41

1

R

ES

PO

ND

EN

TS

(1)

U =

Urb

an (

2) R

= R

ural

(3)

T

= T

otal

(4)

+ =

Rur

al r

espo

nden

ts a

nd t

heir

perc

enta

ge

455

in favour of acceptance of Dalits’ good & services only

because of Caste prejudice & hatred.

The Caste Hindus were asked about their

relationship with Dalits and Adivasis. The percentage of

responses is indicator of degree of acceptability which

is as under :-

Table N0.6-85

Very close relationship with SCs/STs.


1. OBC 13.75% 8.33%

2. Vaishya 10.16% 50.00%

3. Kshatriya 8.86% 36.36%

4. Patel 8.33% 10.00%

5. Brahmin 5.88% 28.57%

6. SC/ST - -

Average% - 9.39% 26.65%

Table N0.6-86

Caste Hindus’ close relationship with SCs/STs.



2. Kshatriya 27.84% 18.18%

3. OBC 26.25% 33.33%

4. Brahmin 22.45% 14.28%

456

5. Patel 10.00% 50.00%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 25.10% 23.15%

Table N0.6-87

Caste Hindus’average relationship with SCs/STs.


1. Patel 60.00% 20.00%

2. Kshatriya 59.49% 36.36%

3. OBC 55.00% 58.33%

4. Vaishya 38.98% 50.00%

5. Brahmin 5.88% 28.57%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 43.87% 38.65%

Table N0.6-88

Caste Hindus do not have any relationship at all with

SCs/STs



2. Patel 21.66% 20.00%


4. OBC 5.00% Nil

5. Kshatriya 3.79% 9.09%

6. SC/ST N.A. N.A.

Average% - 13.95% 5.81%

457

9.39% Caste Hindus from urban areas and 26.65%

Caste Hindus from rural areas respectively have stated

that they have “very close” relationship with the Dalits

& Adivasis.


Caste Hindus from rural area respectively have stated

that they have “close” relationship with Dalits and

Adivasis.


Caste Hindus from rural area respectively have stated

that they have “Average” relationship with Dalits &

Adivasis.


Caste Hindus from rural area respectively “do not have

at all” any relationship with the Dalits & with the

Adivasis. If we combine “very close” and “close”

relationship, the percentage of relationship of Caste

Hindus with Dalits & Adivasis from urban and rural

areas comes to 34.49% and 49.8% respectively. The

Caste Hindus in rural areas are having “closer” relations

with the Dalits & adivasis as compared to caste Hindus

from urban areas.

458

The 13.95% Caste Hindus from urban area &

5.81% Caste Hindus from rural area stated that they do

not have any relationship with either the Dalits or with

the Adivasis. Why such state of total non-communication

has occurred is not known but may be, they might not

have been occupationally connected with the Dalits &

with the Adivasis at all and hence total isolation prevails

or they might have kept themselves away from such

relationship due to Caste based hatred & contempt.

In this Chapter we have seen the acceptence of the

Dalits as well as non-acceptance of Dalits by the Caste

Hindus both in urban areas & rural areas and the

percentage of such acceptance and non-acceptance in both

urban and rural area and at the same time seen &

analysed the social opposition from Caste Hindus in

many social matters like wedding of a Dalit boy with a

Caste Hindu girl or a Caste Hindu’s boy with Dalit girl.

Though the “Varnavyavastha” had permitted “Anulom” &

“Pratilom” marriages between different varnas, today’s even

highly educated persons belonging to Caste Hindu fold

do not hesitate to oppose such inter-caste marriages.

Besides marriage, they also oppose inter-caste community

dinner not only of themselves but also of their wards &

children in schools. We have also seen responses from

Caste Hindus like “We do not want to accept the Dalits

on any occasion,” which suggests the prevalence of social

459

theory of exclusion. Such opposition & exclusion

mentality is so strong that in certain cases, even a most

temporary and transitory company of the Dalits like

accidental meeting in toilet for urinal purposes is also

not acceptable and the same is completely abhorred by

the Caste Hindus. Some of the Caste Hindus have also

expressed their opinions that, “We don’t want even the

shadow of the Dalits.” Dalits to them are not acceptable

but even their shadows are also not acceptable. This

reminds of the Peshwas’ Rule13 in Poona when the

Peshwas by official notification & declaration ordered the

Dalits not to come out of their houses before 9.00 AM

& after 3.00 PM as during this period, due to position

of sun in the sky, the shadows are longer and hence if

the Dalits come out during morning and evening, they by

their shadows can pollute larger numbers of Caste

Hindus. One can conclude on the basis of above facts

that the same Peshwas’ Caste based mentality still exists

in some Caste Hindus who said , “Even shadow of the

Dalits is not acceptable” to them.

____________________________________________________

References:-

1. Ambedkar, Dr. Baba Saheb, Writing and Speeches, The

Education Department, Government of Maharashtra,,

Bombay-400032, January, 1990, Vol.7, p.365-366.

2. Ghurye, G.S., Caste, Class and Occupation, Popular

Book Depot,, Bombay-7, October,1961, p.58

460

3. Lynnvincentnathan, Untouchable Concept of Person,

Department of Sociology, Aurora University, Aurora,

Illionois-60506-4892, U.S.A., November,1988 (Paper

Presentation), p.62


Book Depot,, Bombay-7, October,1961, p.51

5. Ibid, p.79

6. Ibid, p.7

7. Ibid

8. Ibid, p.51

9. Ibid

10. Ibid, p.51-52

11. Ambedkar, Dr. Baba Saheb, Writing and Speeches, The

Education Department, Government of Maharashtra,,

Bombay-400032, January, 1990, Vol.7, p.379

12. Makwana M.H., Impact of Globalization and Socio-

Economic Development of Dalits - A Case Study of

Gujarat, (Survey of six Urban Areas of Gujarat)

2009


Book Depot,, Bombay-7, October,1961, p.11.

dalits’ social acceptance and social exclusion as we have...

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