Dalit

High school (ages 12+)
People & Society

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/dalit

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the etymological meaning?Derived from Sanskrit, meaning 'broken' or 'scattered'
2. What is the religious diversity?Predominantly Hindu, with significant populations adhering to Buddhism, Sikhism, Christianity, and Islam
3. What does the word "Dalit" mean?The word comes from Sanskrit and means "broken" or "scattered." It is used to describe people who were treated as outcasts in India.
4. Why were Dalits called "untouchables"?In the old caste system, they were kept away from temples and other places because people thought they were ritually impure. They did jobs like cleaning and leatherwork.

Varna System: The ancient Hindu social hierarchy divided into four main classes, with Dalits excluded from this structure.
Untouchability: The historical practice of ostracizing and discriminating against Dalits based on notions of ritual purity and pollution.
Scheduled Castes (SCs): Official designation in India for historically disadvantaged groups, including Dalits, eligible for affirmative action and legal protections.
Reservation Policy: Affirmative action measures in India designed to ensure representation and opportunities for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.