In 1924, he started the organization 'Bahiskrit Hitakarini Sabha,' for the upliftment of the untouchables and adopted a two–pronged strategy: – [1] Eradication of illiteracy and economic uplift of the downtrodden and [2] Non–violent struggle against visible symbols of casteism, like denial of entry into temples and drawing water from public wells and tanks.
In 1942, Dr. Ambedkar formed the 'Scheduled Castes Federation.' He was also a staunch advocate of women's rights. Justifiably bitter and disenchanted with Hinduism, he changed his religion to Buddhism.
In October 1956, Dr. Ambedkar, along with about a quarter million Dalit men and women, converted to Buddhism in Nagpur. For Ambedkar, Buddha was one of the main inspiring personalities in history who raised a strong voice of protest against inequality between people and between men and women.
Dr. Ambedkar died on December 6, 1956, and Dalits continue to remember him as their liberator and a champion of their rights.
Low–caste Hindus make up about 16 percent of India's 1.1 billion population, and have traditionally been at the bottom of the 3,000–year–old Hindu caste hierarchy.
In some parts of the country, including in its most populous state of Uttar Pradesh, the community has been mobilized by low–caste politicians into a potent political force but even there they continue to face widespread discrimination.
Caste discrimination is banned by the Indian Constitution but reports of Dalits being beaten or killed for using a well or worshipping at a temple reserved for upper castes in the conservative rural areas are still common.
Nation
Tens of thousands of Dalits, tribals embrace Buddhism to escape caste oppression
By: Jacob Chaterjee
Monday, 28 May 2007, 10:37 (IST)
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