Water and Violence Against Dalits in Maharashtra: A Multi-case Approach

Abstract

Water is one of the most vital resources required for human existence. Yet access to this natural resource has not been easy, especially for dalits living in rural India. There have been numerous violent incidents that have been perpetrated against dalits, ranging from verbal to physical abuse and sometimes even ending in murder when this under-privileged community has asserted its right to water. A multi-case study method has been used in selected villages located in Beed district of Maharashtra to examine the various forms of violence that have been employed to prevent dalits from accessing water. Most have occurred because upper caste Hindus believe that since the so-called ‘impure’ dalits in villages pollute water therefore it should be denied to them. The study concludes with B. R. Ambedkar’s views on accessing water on the principle of social justice, equality and human rights.