Intersectionality of Caste Violence: From the Standpoint of Anti-Caste Activists

Abstract

This paper aims to address violence against women discourse outside patriarchal standards and situates it in larger systemic frameworks of caste violence that make dalit women vulnerable. The relationship between caste and violence distinctly outlined, having endured in society, and leading to the marginalisation of dalit communities. The touchable class establishes the Hindu social order, and any attempt by the untouchable to disturb it or violate Hindu social norms triggers a violence mechanism, viewing it as punishable. The justification of committing caste violence against dalits and dalit women is rooted in societal standards, often supported by epic spiritual stories. However, their (Dalits) stories of human rights violations have been neglected. In many caste violence cases in the field, sexual violence against women is embedded, often overlooked by the state mechanism and civil society. Even the dalit male activists, who are vocal about dalit women issues, merely address the caste violence by neglecting the aspect of sexual violence. Therefore, this paper brought the perspectives of anti-caste activists, who worked on this issue and reflect upon the major gaps of addressing it. This article is based on the in-depth interviews conducted with activists. The researcher has sought illuminate aspects of their journey and how they began working on dalit women’s issues. It also addresses how dalit women scholars, activists, and lawyers confronted the causes of caste-based sexual violence, extending the debates over sexual violence discourse.