Changing Role of Dalit Women: A Case From Chadani Village of Mahakali Municipality, Kanchanpur

Abstract

This study tried to explain changing role of the Dalit women living in Chadani villageof Mahakali Municipality. The specific objectives were; to examine socio and economic status of selected Dalit households, to assess socio-economic role of Dalit women on their family livelihoods and to analyze changing status of the Dalit womenin social level. The study was based on case study methodology in which quantitative dominant qualitative data/information were collected and analyzed with descriptive and illustrative methods.In so doing, out of the total 366 households, 50(25 employed and 25 unemployed) household respondents were taken as sample and structured questionnaires were asked to the selected female respondents. The findings indicate the role of Dalit people is improved better during the recent few years in comparison to social and economic aspect. However, majorities of the respondents do not have an access to health and education. They are also found poorest amongst with the soc called upper caste groups in the community and society.They are facing caste based discrimination in everyday social and economic life.Hierarchical Hindu cultural practices, inter-cast discrimination within Dalits themselves and illiteracy are the deep rooted causes against empowerment and social inclusion of the Dalit community in the study area. In conclusion the policies that are designed in central level without participation of the target group cannot prepare people for overcoming challenges in real life situations. It requires planning, resourcing the community to meet needs,increasing people’s skills and capabilities, building community networks and providing support through social action groups in order to lead improving life quality of Dalit people. These all can be achieved by empowering individuals and more importantly women in the Dalit communities. Reforms in bureaucracy and more effective awareness campaigns are needed against discriminatory practices guided by culture and as a form of social system.