CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF COMMUNAL AWARD AND POONA PACT IN THE CONTEXT OF SINDH’S UNTOUCHABLES
Keywords:
Untouchables, Dalits, Caste system, South Asia, Communal Award (1932), Poona Pact (1932),, Depressed Classes, Political changes, social changes, Discrimination, Constitutional provisions, Advocacy organizations, international bodies, Dalit rights, social marginalization, Economic marginalization, Pakistan, Caste-based discriminationAbstract
The status of untouchables, or Dalits, in South Asia has been a complex issue shaped by historical and legislative factors. This paper investigates the evolution of the caste system in India and Pakistan, focusing on the impact of the Communal Award (1932) and the Poona Pact (1932) on Dalit communities. The Communal Award, introduced by the British colonial government, was a pivotal moment that led to significant political and social changes for the Depressed Classes. The Poona Pact, a response to the Communal Award, aimed to reconcile Hindu and Dalit interests but has been critiqued for perpetuating inequalities. This study explores the ongoing discrimination faced by Dalits in both countries, emphasizing the limitations of constitutional provisions and the challenges in addressing caste-based discrimination. It also examines the role of advocacy organizations and international bodies in promoting Dalit rights. The findings reveal that despite legal advancements, Dalits continue to experience severe social and economic marginalization, particularly in Pakistan, where caste-based discrimination remains entrenched.
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