Informal social group and Lok Sangharsh Samiti (LSS): informal collaboration of Dalits for resistance and ‘land rights’

Abstract

ABSTRACT Dalits, as ex-untouchable caste groups, are at the bottom of India’s hierarchical social structure and are on the margin in the social, educational, cultural, political, and economic spheres of society. Land is one of the vital resources which does not merely determine one’s socio-economic condition but also regulates social position in society. The historical marginalization and exclusion of Dalits denied them land ownership, which affects their socio-economic well-being. Therefore, the denial of Dalits from access to land ownership is not merely visible in their measurable socio-economic condition but also in their social position in society. However, over the period, the social and political mobilization of Dalits has emerged as a tool against structural discrimination and social exclusion, which contributed to their social and economic well-being. Therefore, drawing upon the experience of Lok Sangharsh Samiti (LSS) – an informal social group of Dalit community which was formed in 2002 for land rights in the District of West Champaran, Bihar, the article argues that collective struggle, informal collaboration, and social mobilization of Dalits contributed enormously to their land rights; and thus, Dalits are making a claim for social justice.