Indian Society and Untouchability

The Concept of Purity and Pollution in Indian Society

• The concept of purity and pollution in Indian society led to the formation of a category known as untouchables (antyajas), who were considered outside the Brahmanical society.

Origins of Untouchability

• The notion of untouchability took roots during the last phase of the Vedic period and became a separate social category in the age of the Buddha.

Types of Untouchables

• Chandala is a term used loosely for many types of untouchables, including hunters (nishada), fishermen (kaivartas), leather workers (charmakaras), sweepers (kukkusa), and basket makers (vend).

Living Conditions and Restrictions

• Untouchables were not allowed to reside in caste villages and had to stay in special quarters outside the main settlements.
• They were forced to wear iron ornaments, dress in the garments of the corpses they cremated, and eat food from broken vessels.

Decline in Status

• By the Gupta period, their status had fallen so much that they were forced to strike a wooden clapper on entering a town.

Other Untouchable Categories

• The 'Dom' and 'Domb' tribe became an untouchable category after coming into contact with caste-divided groups.
• Mlechchas were also considered untouchables.

Efforts to End Untouchability

• Mahatma Gandhi initiated a campaign against the practice of untouchability, referring to them as "Harijans".
• The Government of India has enacted laws against practicing or promoting untouchability.
• Education and social movements have contributed towards bridging the gap between untouchables and others.

Current Status

• Although the practice of untouchability is considered a crime, it still continues in rural areas.
• It is hoped that this inhuman practice will soon be wiped out.