Subject: Indian Society

Contemporary Dalit movements have evolved from mere protest movements to multi-dimensional assertions of identity, drawing inspiration from Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's vision of annihilation of caste while adapting to modern challenges and opportunities.

Contemporary Forms of Dalit Assertion

• Political Representation: The 16% parliamentary reservation for Dalits has enabled their participation in democratic processes, though challenges of genuine representation persist.
• Cultural Renaissance: Modern Dalit movements focus on reclaiming cultural identity through literature, art, and music (e.g., Dalit Sahitya Movement).
• Digital Activism: Social media platforms have become powerful tools for Dalit voices to highlight discrimination and mobilize support (e.g., #DalitLivesMatter).

Contribution to Caste Annihilation

• Educational Empowerment: Emphasis on education as a liberating force through scholarships and support systems (e.g., Post-Matric Scholarship for SC students).
• Economic Emancipation: Government schemes like Telangana's Ambedkar Abhaya Hastham providing Rs. 12 lakh financial assistance to Dalit families.
• Social Consciousness: Raising awareness about caste discrimination through protests, literature, and media advocacy.

Challenges and Limitations

• Persistent Violence: Rising atrocities against SCs from 2,046 in 2020 to 2,902 in 2022 in Odisha indicate continued social resistance.
• Political Co-option: Dalit leaders often become dependent on party establishments, compromising autonomous advocacy.
• Internal Divisions: Sub-caste hierarchies within Dalits sometimes hamper unified movement.

Way Forward

• Intersectional Approach: Addressing multiple forms of discrimination based on gender, class, and religion.
• Institutional Reform: Strengthening implementation of SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act.
• Economic Integration: Focus on skill development and entrepreneurship opportunities.

The contemporary Dalit movement, while building on traditional anti-caste discourse, has evolved into a comprehensive struggle for dignity and equality. Success in caste annihilation requires sustained efforts across political, social, and economic dimensions, as exemplified by initiatives like Ambedkar Abhaya Hastham and digital activism platforms. However, the rising cases of atrocities highlight the need for continued vigilance and systemic reforms to achieve Dr. Ambedkar's vision of a casteless society.