The maps comparing the percentage of the vegetarian population and the practice of untouchability in India reveal a stark and thought-provoking correlation. As a Dalit activist, this visual data compels us to reflect on the deep-rooted social and cultural dynamics that continue to perpetuate caste-based discrimination in our country.
The map on the left illustrates the distribution of vegetarianism across India, highlighting regions with higher percentages of vegetarians. The map on the right shows the prevalence of untouchability, with darker shades representing areas where this practice is more common. What is striking is the overlap between these two maps: regions with higher vegetarian populations also tend to have higher incidences of untouchability.
Historically, vegetarianism in India has been associated with certain upper-caste communities who practice it as a part of their religious and cultural identity. These communities often view themselves as more “pure” and maintain strict dietary codes to reinforce social boundaries. Consequently, untouchability becomes a mechanism to preserve this perceived purity by segregating those who do not adhere to the same dietary practices or caste norms.
As a human rights activist from the Dalit community, it is disheartening to see that despite legal and constitutional measures to abolish untouchability, these practices persist in many parts of India. The data presented in these maps underscore the urgent need for continuous efforts to combat caste-based discrimination and promote social equality.
To address this issue, we must:
- Raise Awareness: Educate people about the harmful effects of untouchability and the importance of social integration.
- Promote Inclusive Practices: Encourage communities to adopt inclusive practices that transcend caste boundaries.
- Legal Enforcement: Strengthen the enforcement of anti-discrimination laws and ensure justice for victims of untouchability.
- Cultural Change: Challenge and change the cultural narratives that perpetuate caste hierarchies and untouchability.
- Support Grassroots Movements: Empower and support grassroots movements and organizations that work towards the annihilation of caste.
At Project Navayan and Madiga Network, our mission is to unite all oppressed communities and fight against caste oppression. We are collaborating with organizations like Equality Labs in the USA to amplify our efforts and create a global movement for social justice. By working together, we can dismantle these oppressive systems and build a more equitable and inclusive society.
Vijay Vangalapudi – Human Rights Activist
