Thirsting for Equality: Caste Barriers and Water Rights

Humanities

Water is a globally ubiquitous resource that belongs to all members of society, regardless of any form of discrimination. Caste discrimination has been practiced throughout India's history, resulting in the marginalization of certain individuals due to their lower caste status. According to Hindu sacred texts, water has traditionally been regarded as an element symbolizing purity. Consequently, individuals from upper castes have imposed water segregation based on the belief that contact with lower caste individuals would render the water impure. This paper will examine the severe discrimination manifested in the denial of water access to marginalized individuals belonging to lower castes. Through an analysis of Bama's Karakku and Om Prakash Valmiki's Jhoothan this paper will elucidate how water, a resource that should be equally accessible to all, has been historically denied to certain subaltern sections of society. This study will also demonstrate the significance of sustainable development goals in India for addressing issues related to water scarcity.

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