DALIT IDENTITY AND LITERATURE: THE KERALA CONTEXT

Abstract

The theorization of caste has transformed significantly after 1990s, especially after the presentation of Mandal Commission Report[1] and the debates based on that. The debate on caste has taken many turns in rapid succession in this scenario. Before, the commonly held idea about caste was that it is a remnant of pre-modern, hierarchical, purity/pollution formation specific to Hinduism alone. But, today, this formulation is rejected and even criticized by many in the academe. Today, everyone considers caste as a live force in Indian culture, society and politics. The caste issue has resulted in the compartmentalization of the society into two sections such as dominating or submissive, based on the economic and social statuses of the individuals belonging to these sections.

[1]                 A report submitted in December 1980 to the Indian Government by Mandal Commission headed by noted parliamentarian - Bindheshwari Prasad Mandal. The commission was set up in 1979 by the then Janata Partygovernment. Commission suggested reservation for OBCs which resulted in many debates and assaults against OBCs in the country