Interactive Effect of Caste and Disability: An Analysis

Abstract

When Disability theory was formulated, the thinkers hadn’t imagined that their idea would intersect with multiple other concepts and themes; for example, Racial theory, then Feminism, Queer and LGTB. The disability theory originated on the western frontier, but its application requires contextualization and localization. This is the reason why, in the case of India, as a third-world country, needs multiple focus lenses for the applicability of disabled discourse; Dalit discourse is one such lens on which disability discourse can be tested, extended, and improvised. We here try to link "Dalit" as an identity with a disability, to understand its cumulative effect on the Dalit person with a disability. We believe that by taking this approach, we can raise the missing questions and assist the disability discourse in addressing the marginalised and neglected issues. In our analysis, we would first define the Disability and Dalit as distinct entities, and highlight the ordeal and discrimination they face. Then, we would take a look at the life of a Dalit person in India living with a disability, as we have described their situation as doubly disadvantageous and miserable, with particular mention of women with disabilities. We examined Indian laws related to, and addressed the problems of, both identities, and the intersection they forget. In conclusion, we would try to justify the need to look into the intersection of the Dalit identity with a disability, to address the raised concern regarding policy formulation and awareness in civil society and academia.