2.1 Casting out the Caste Flashcards
What is the caste system?
The caste system is a religious and social class system in India, where classes are defined by family and birth. Found mostly among Hindus, it also exists among some Muslims and Christians.
Who are the Dalits?
The Dalits are the lowest caste in the caste system. Once known as the ‘untouchables’, they tend to work in unhealthy, unpleasant or polluting jobs - suffering from social prejudices, segregation, and extreme poverty. Prejudice is greatest in rural areas.
What are the four main castes?
The caste system divides Hindus into four main categories - Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and the Shudras. Many believe that the groups originated from Brahma, the Hindu God of creation.
When did Independent India’s constitution ban discrimination on the basis of caste?
1950
What is ragging?
Ragging in India is a damaging form of interaction of the seniors in college or school with the juniors, new entrants or first years. It is similar to but not the same as hazing in the United States, it is not an initiation. It involves insults (simple or suggestive sexual, sarcastic and even physical), running errands for seniors, and many other complex activities.
What are some of the effects of being part of a lower caste?
According to a 2007 United Nations report Dalit children are segregated in village schools while their parents are denied basic rights such as water, the right to stage marriage processions and the right to vote. The same report claims that every 20 minutes a Dalit girl is raped by upper caste men.
