About the Book

The position of Dalits and their conditions of life were no less shaped by the diverse historical material conditions in different parts of India than by religion and ideology. The regional diversities cover a wide range of differences in the historical evolution of caste hierarchy; social reform movements, the differential impact of socio-economic changes, the affirmative actions and the experiences of collective Dalit resistance and mobilisation. Punjab region, having the largest percentage of Dalit population, is known as a ‘notable exception’ to the widely prevalent Brahmanic view of caste and untouchability. Sikh religion made a significant difference in the region. The Green Revolution may be counted among other notable influences.

This volume brings together specially written articles based on recent studies relating to various dimensions of change in the position of Dalits and their present day living experience in Punjab. These cover a wide range — demographic position; the impact of changes in the political economy, state’s affirmative action, education, gender violence, history of political resistance and mobilisation, Dalit literature and the position of Dalits in the Sikh community.

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Contents

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About the Author / Editor

Harish K. Puri, is (retired) B R Ambedkar Chair Professor, Department of Political Science, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar. He has published extensively on political movements, federalism, Punjab and Akali politics and terrorism. His books include “Ghadar Movement: Ideology, Organisation and Strategy, Terrorism in Punjab: Understanding Grassroots Reality” (co-authored) and “Social and Political Movements in Punjab” (co-edited)

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