Introduction to Caste Discrimination:
- In India society was historically divided into different castes. People belonging to lower castes faced discrimination and were often denied access to various social privileges.
Emergence of Movements:
- By the late 19th century several movements emerged to challenge these unfair practices and fight for equality and justice.
The Satnami Movement in Central India:
- The Satnami Movement was led by Ghasidas, who worked among the leatherworkers, a group that was considered low in the caste hierarchy.
- This movement aimed to improve the social status of its members by rejecting traditional caste-based discrimination and advocating for equality.
The Matua Sect in Eastern Bengal:
- Similarly, the Matua sect was established by Haridas Thakur in Eastern Bengal.
- This group primarily consisted of the Chandala cultivators who were treated as untouchables.
- Haridas Thakur and his followers questioned the religious texts that supported the caste system and promoted messages of equality among all humans.
Objectives of These Movements:
- Both movements sought to:
- Eradicate caste discrimination: They challenged the prevailing social norms that justified inequality based on caste.
- Promote social equality: They advocated for equal rights and opportunities for all regardless of caste.
- Empower the community: By educating their members and raising awareness about their rights these movements helped empower the marginalised sections of society.
Impact of the Movements:
- The efforts of these movements gradually led to increased awareness and support for caste equality.
- They inspired other reform movements across India contributing to a broader national discourse on social justice and equality.
