Plight of Dalit Women in Haryana

Abstract

As per the Census 2011, the total population of Haryana is 2.54 crores and in which around one fifth of total population belongs to schedule caste. Around 24 lakhs schedule caste women (47% of total population of s/c population of Haryana) reside in the state of Haryana. The expressions ‘Depressed Class,’ ‘Exterior Caste’ and ‘Untouchables’ were commonly used for the scheduled castes. They are also called ‘Dalit’. Schedule caste women is worst affected by the social division on the basis of caste, class and gender. They have to face violence and remain deprived of their basic rights due to present gender, class and caste intersectionality. Substantial number of crimes against women like rape, sexual harassment, abduction and kidnapping etc happen in Haryana. Most of the Dalits in Haryana reside in rural and have low access to basic amenities. Only 56% of dalits are literates in Haryana as per Census 2011. Among working women of India, SCs and STs are the most vulnerable section of the society. Dalit women face many difficulties to become economically and socially empowered let alone being politically empowered. Despite various constitutional provisions, schemes and policies provided by Indian government, condition of Dalit women is still pathetic. The present study analyzes and evaluates the present status of Dalit women in the state of Haryana on the basis of census 2011 and National Crime Bureau of India and shows it is high time to work for upliftment of Dalit women.