Scheduled Caste Atrocities

Though the conventional view of Punjab is that of a caste free state, lacking a significant number of the traditional dominant upper caste groups, this is not the case. In the absence of the typical dominant castes as a major group in the state, the boundaries of “upper” have shifted and the lower castes continue to be treated in a sub-human manner.

The population of Scheduled Castes in Punjab is estimated to be 7,028,723 which amounts to 28.9% of the total population of the State. This is proportionately the highest of any other state in the country. In many rural areas, where ones caste is well known by his neighbours, people from lower castes can be treated in a sub-human manner. Caste discrimination can takes its shape in many forms, be it stigmatisation in the community, verbal and physical abuse, harassment and exploitation of women

The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 ensures that this group are not marginalised in society, reserving them a certain number of seats in Parliament, for example. However, in reality the stigma attached to their caste remains. VSJ-DDVA seek to empower these communities, teaching them that they should not tolerate being treated in a subordinate manner. We also make them aware of schemes that exist for them and educate them of the laws that are in place for their protection. This way, we help empower them so that they can articulate their wishes and achieve their desires.