Who are Dalits?
Dalits, occupy the lowest tier in Nepal’s traditional caste hierarchy and comprise around 13.4% of Nepal’s population. As per the 2021 census, Dalits have historically been subjected to social exclusion, economic marginalization, and cultural oppression. The caste system in Nepal has deep historical roots, with the social stratification derived from Hindu traditions. Dalits, who constitute about significant population size, are regarded to the lowest social status, subjected to severe discrimination, social ostracism, and limited access to resources. Historically, they were denied basic rights such as education, land ownership, and participation in governance, leading to intergenerational poverty and marginalization.
Dalits continue to experience discrimination in all walks of life, including employment, education, and public services. Many face restrictions in accessing temples, public spaces, and households of so-called high caste. They have been the victim of violence, degrading inhumane treatment, and various sexual harassment. In 2020, Navaraj BK and his friends who were killed in the Rukum, embarked nationwide spark protests and demanded assurance of justice and reformation of existing legal provisions. The tragic event created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among the people of the so-called lower castes. Similarly, Dalits exclusion from employment opportunities, and deprived of land ownership has created economic disparity; as a result, they have suffered poverty and access to a dignified life. Traditional occupations often connoted as ‘unclean’ bind them to low-paying jobs, perpetuating cycles of poverty. Lastly, their marginal representation in governance in state organs has clearly violated the social justice principle of proportionate participation. Though the present constitution mandates representation of marginalized communities, the actual political representation of Dalits remains low, reducing their voice in decision-making processes. The meaningful participation of Dalit voices in governance and state affairs has been a mere tokenism.