Oct 16-31, 1983
Editorial: Untouchability in Indian sub-continent
A testimony submitted by Bhagwan Das, Chairman, All-India Samata Sainik Dal, at the 36th Session of the UN Sub-Commission on Human Rights at Geneva :-
Untouchability is a phenomenon peculiar to Hinduism. It took birth in India and spread to other religions and other countries. No religion in India is free from Un- touchability. Sikhism, Christianity and Islam are more progressive and egalitarian religions but not free from caste and Untouchability.
Nepal is a Hindu state, but its Hindus have 59 castes. Several groups are treated as Untouchables. Pakistan with 97% Muslim population is divided into numerous castes. Sweeper, scavengers, cobblers, weavers etc who are termed as scheduled castes under the India Act 1935, are treated as Untouchables by Muslims. Even among the Pakistani Christians, the Christian Punjabi sweepers, the descendants of chuhra com- munity, are kept segregated. In Lanka, the Sinhalese Buddhistts do not admit lower castes as Bhikkus. Among the Lankan Tamils, caste is rigidly followed. Many of the Muslims in Bangladesh are Untouchable and Buddhist converts. They are discriminated by Hindus of Bangladesh.
Untouchability, deep rooted in the minds of Hindus, regulates their behaviour. The growing trend towards mass conversion among Untouchables may force Hindus to introduce some changes but without touching their caste system. They want us to believe that caste system is god-made.
A report by V.T. Rajshekar on his visit to Japan.
It says that the discrimination against the Burakumin is the result of Hindu influence on Japan.
Rev. M Azariah, Madras, appeals to WCC that caste oppression is as serious an evil as racism and requests a programme to combat it under WCC. It was readily accepted and passed.
Rev. S. Jayamma & Rev. IMN Jyoti, two women, were ordained to priesthood.
The All-India Brahmins Federation warns central Govt not to implement Mandal Commission report.
Ramdas Althavale, Dalit Panther leader Inaugurated the Tamilnad unit of Dalit Panthers at Madurai on Sept. 19, 1983.
Hindu resurgence conference at Nagercoil Tamilnad, calls for declaring India a ‘Hindu Nation’ and enactment of a common civil code for all communities.
