1. Introduction: Dalit in Bangladesh – A Struggle for Equality and Justice

The Dalit in Bangladesh have long faced systemic discrimination, social exclusion, and economic hardships rooted in caste-based oppression. Despite constitutional guarantees of equality, Dalits remain one of the most marginalized communities, suffering from untouchability, poverty, lack of access to education, and job discrimination.

Dalit is not just a caste or a group of castes, but a term used to define a community that has been marginalized through religious sanctions, social discrimination, and economic deprivation. In Bangladesh, approximately 5.5 million Dalits live in conditions of extreme poverty and social exclusion.

Historically, caste-based divisions have placed Dalits at the lowest tier of society, restricting their participation in mainstream economic, social, and political life. Many Dalits are confined to traditional, low-paying occupations such as cleaning, leatherwork, and manual labor, leaving them with limited opportunities for upward mobility. The Dalit community in Bangladesh continues to struggle for basic human rights, including housing, healthcare, and legal protection from discrimination.

In rural and urban areas alike, Dalit children face barriers to education, while Dalit women are subjected to gender-based violence, wage gaps, and lack of healthcare. The social stigma of untouchability forces Dalits to live in segregated settlements, reinforcing cycles of exclusion.

The Dalit population in Bangladesh is divided into two main groups:

• Bengali-speaking Dalits (Bangali Dalit) – These include traditional artisans and laborers such as Charmokar (Cobbler), Kumar (Potter), Malo (Fishermen), and Rana Karmokar (Blacksmiths).
• Non-Bengali Dalits (Non-Bangali Dalit) – These groups migrated from India before 1947, primarily from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. Many work as cleaners, tea garden laborers, and manual scavengers.

Additionally, the term Dalit is often used to refer to individuals or communities who face extreme social stigma or exclusion by the dominant mainstream society. This means that Dalits are not simply defined by caste but also by their systemic marginalization due to social, economic, and occupational factors.

Although some progress has been made through activism, policy advocacy, and community initiatives, the road to social justice and equality for Dalits in Bangladesh remains long. Addressing these challenges requires legal reforms, awareness campaigns, economic empowerment programs, and strong advocacy efforts to ensure the Dalit community can fully participate in society with dignity and respect.

2.     Who Are the Dalits in Bangladesh?

The Dalit in Bangladesh are among the most marginalized and oppressed communities, facing systemic discrimination, social exclusion, and economic hardships due to their caste-based identity. Historically considered “untouchable,” Dalits are often restricted to low-paying, menial jobs such as cleaning, leatherwork, and waste management, leaving them trapped in poverty and social isolation.

Despite Bangladesh’s constitutional commitment to equality, Dalits continue to face discrimination in housing, education, healthcare, and employment. Many Dalit families live in segregated colonies with poor living conditions, lack of sanitation, and limited access to clean water. Dalit children often drop out of school due to bullying, exclusion, and financial struggles, while Dalit women face gender-based violence, wage disparities, and lack of reproductive healthcare.

The Dalit community in Bangladesh consists of various sub-groups, spanning both Hindu and Muslim backgrounds. Key groups include:

• Bengali Dalits – Charmokar (Cobbler), Malakar (Garland Maker), Kumar (Potter), Kai Putro, Koi-borto (Fishers), Kol, Kahar, Nikari (Traders), Bauli, Bhagobania, Manata, Malo (Fishermen), Mahato, Rajo Das, Rajbongshi, Rana Karmokar (Blacksmiths), Roy, Shobdokar, Shobor, Sannasi, Hazra, etc.
• Non-Bengali Dalits – This includes groups that migrated from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha during British rule. Many of them still work as cleaners, tea garden laborers, and sanitation workers.
• Muslim Dalits – Although Islam does not allow caste discrimination, many Muslim communities remain socially excluded, including Jola (Weavers), Hajam (Circumcisers), Bede (Nomadic Tribes), and Moual (Honey Collectors).

Dalits in Bangladesh also face cultural and linguistic challenges. Some Dalit languages and dialects—such as Thar (spoken by the Rishis)—are on the verge of extinction. Additionally, many Dalits have converted to Christianity and Islam, seeking greater social acceptance, though discrimination persists.

Moreover, Dalits are often excluded from mainstream social interactions, reinforcing their marginalization. Many Dalit groups live in segregated communities, preventing them from accessing basic services like healthcare and education. Due to the deeply ingrained caste-based prejudices, Dalits are often denied access to public facilities, such as wells, temples, and even restaurants.

Breaking this cycle of discrimination requires policy reforms, economic empowerment, education, and legal protections. Advocacy for Dalit rights and inclusion in social and economic development programs is essential for ensuring justice, dignity, and equal opportunities for the Dalit community in Bangladesh.

3.     Social Discrimination Against Dalits

The Dalit in Bangladesh continue to face severe social discrimination, despite constitutional guarantees of equality. Historically marginalized due to caste-based oppression, Dalits suffer from exclusion in education, employment, housing, and public spaces, reinforcing a cycle of poverty and deprivation.

One of the most pressing issues is untouchability, where Dalits are denied access to restaurants, salons, and religious institutions. In many rural and urban areas, they are forced to live in segregated colonies, often in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions. Dalit children face bullying and discrimination in schools, leading to high dropout rates and limited access to quality education.

In the workforce, Dalits are often confined to menial, low-paying jobs, such as cleaning, waste management, and leatherwork. Even within these roles, they experience wage discrimination and job insecurity. Dalit women suffer double discrimination, facing gender-based violence, sexual exploitation, and wage inequality.

The Dalit community in Bangladesh is also largely excluded from political representation, legal protections, and government safety net programs, making it difficult for them to advocate for their rights. Social stigma prevents Dalits from fully integrating into mainstream society, depriving them of opportunities for upward mobility.

Ending social discrimination against Dalits in Bangladesh requires strong legal enforcement, policy reforms, education, and awareness programs to promote inclusion and equal rights. By addressing these injustices, Bangladesh can move towards a more equitable and just society for all.

4.     Economic Struggles and Exploitation of Dalit Communities

The Dalit in Bangladesh face severe economic struggles and exploitation, primarily due to historical caste-based discrimination and lack of opportunities. Dalits have been systematically excluded from mainstream employment, education, and financial resources, forcing them into low-paying, hazardous, and insecure jobs.

Many Dalit communities are confined to menial labor, such as street cleaning, waste management, leatherwork, and manual scavenging. These occupations are low-paid and socially stigmatized, preventing them from breaking free from the cycle of poverty and economic hardship. Dalit women face even greater exploitation, often receiving lower wages than men and experiencing workplace harassment and abuse.

Landlessness is another major challenge for the Dalit population in Bangladesh. Most Dalits do not own land or property, forcing them to live in overcrowded and unhygienic settlements. Without land or assets, they have little financial security, making them vulnerable to evictions and displacement.

Even in formal employment sectors, Dalits are often paid less than their non-Dalit counterparts for the same work. They are frequently denied job promotions, fair wages, and social benefits, keeping them trapped in poverty. Limited access to credit and financial resources also prevents Dalit entrepreneurs from starting businesses or improving their economic conditions.

Breaking this cycle of economic oppression requires policy reforms, skill-based training, and inclusive employment opportunities for Dalits in Bangladesh. Empowering Dalits through education, financial inclusion, and vocational training can pave the way for economic independence and social equality.

5.     Legal Rights and Policy Gaps for Dalits in Bangladesh

The Dalit in Bangladesh continue to face systemic discrimination and exclusion, despite constitutional provisions guaranteeing equal rights for all citizens. Article 27 of the Constitution of Bangladesh states that all people are equal before the law, while Article 28 prohibits discrimination based on religion, race, caste, or gender. However, Dalits in Bangladesh experience widespread social and economic marginalization, which highlights the significant policy gaps in addressing their rights.

One of the biggest challenges is the lack of legal enforcement. While Bangladesh has anti-discrimination laws, there is no specific law that protects Dalits from caste-based discrimination in employment, education, housing, and public services. This gap allows social exclusion, wage discrimination, and workplace exploitation to persist without consequences.

Dalits also face barriers in accessing justice. Many Dalit communities lack legal literacy and awareness of their rights, making them vulnerable to land dispossession, police abuse, and workplace discrimination. The absence of legal aid services for Dalits further limits their ability to seek justice when their rights are violated.

Government social protection programs, such as VGD, VGF, disability allowances, and employment schemes, often fail to reach Dalit communities due to bureaucratic hurdles and social biases. Without targeted policies and Dalit representation in decision-making, these inequalities remain deeply entrenched.

To close the policy gaps, Bangladesh must enact anti-discrimination laws, ensure Dalit inclusion in government programs, and provide legal support for marginalized communities. Addressing these legal shortcomings is essential to achieving social justice and equal opportunities for Dalits in Bangladesh.

6.     Struggles for Social Justice and Inclusion for Dalits

The Dalit in Bangladesh continue to fight for social justice and inclusion, as they remain one of the most marginalized communities in the country. Despite constitutional guarantees of equality, they face deep-rooted discrimination in education, employment, housing, and social interactions. The rigid caste-based hierarchy has excluded Dalits from mainstream society, limiting their access to basic rights and opportunities.

One of the key struggles for Dalit inclusion is the fight against untouchability and social stigma. Many Dalit families are forced to live in segregated colonies, denied entry into public places, and face barriers in receiving healthcare and education. Dalit children often experience bullying and discrimination in schools, leading to high dropout rates and limited career prospects.

Access to fair employment opportunities is another major challenge. Dalits are traditionally restricted to low-paying, menial jobs, such as street sweeping, waste management, and leather work. Wage discrimination is rampant, and Dalit workers often receive lower salaries than their non-Dalit counterparts. Without proper legal protection, many remain trapped in poverty and exploitation.

To achieve social justice, Dalits in Bangladesh must be given equal access to education, legal aid, economic opportunities, and political representation. Stronger anti-discrimination laws, awareness campaigns, and Dalit leadership in policymaking can pave the way for a more inclusive society where Dalits are treated with dignity and respect.

7.     Dalit Rights Movement and Achievements in Bangladesh

The Dalit rights movement in Bangladesh has been shaped by the collective efforts of Dalit-led organizations, human rights groups, and advocacy initiatives aimed at securing equal rights, social justice, and economic empowerment. Over the years, Dalit communities have mobilized to challenge caste-based discrimination, demand policy reforms, and advocate for equal access to education, employment, and public services. Several Dalit organizations have emerged to lead this movement, including Bangladesh Harijan Oikya Parishad (founded in 1998), Bangladesh Dalit and Excluded Rights Movement (BDERM), and Bangladesh Dalit Parishad (BDP) (both established after 2003). These organizations have been instrumental in raising awareness, lobbying for legal reforms, and uniting Dalit communities under some common deman.

Since 2001, Friends Association for Integrated Revolution (FAIR) has been actively involved in the Dalit rights movement, beginning with research-based initiatives to identify key challenges faced by Dalit communities. Recognizing the urgent need for capacity building, FAIR has provided technical support to Bangladesh Harijan Oikya Parishad (BHOP) since 2006, strengthening their advocacy efforts at both national and local levels. Through this collaboration, the organization has successfully mobilized Dalit leaders, conducted awareness campaigns, and amplified Dalit voices in policy discussions. In addition, donor organizations such as Manusher Jonno Foundation have extended financial and strategic support to reinforce advocacy initiatives for Dalit empowerment. These combined efforts have enhanced the visibility of Dalit issues, compelling government agencies to take action.

As a result of sustained advocacy and collective activism, the Bangladesh government has introduced key policy measures to improve the socio-economic conditions of Dalits. These include stipends for Dalit students, vocational training programs, housing projects for Harijan communities, and employment quotas in municipal services. Furthermore, universities like Dhaka University, Jahangirnagar University, and Islamic University Kushtia have introduced reserved quotas for Dalit students, allowing them greater access to higher education. Additionally, government initiatives such as social safety net programs and affirmative action policies have provided increased economic opportunities for Dalit communities. The drafting of an anti-discrimination law further underscores the progress of the Dalit rights movement, though it awaits formal approval.

Despite these advancements, Dalits in Bangladesh continue to face discrimination and barriers to full social inclusion. Ensuring the effective implementation of existing policies, stronger legal protections, and greater political representation remains crucial. The Dalit rights movement must continue to push for systemic change, ensuring that Dalits can live with dignity, equality, and justice in Bangladesh.

8.     Call to Action: Empowering the Dalit Community

The Dalit in Bangladesh have endured generations of discrimination, poverty, and exclusion. Now is the time to stand in solidarity and create meaningful change. Social justice, equality, and empowerment are not privileges; they are fundamental rights that every human deserves.

By supporting education, legal advocacy, economic opportunities, and social inclusion, we can help break the cycle of oppression and uplift the Dalit community. Here’s how you can contribute:

• Support Dalit Education: Advocate for equal access to education and scholarships for Dalit children. Encourage inclusive school policies to ensure every child has the opportunity to learn in a discrimination-free environment.
• Promote Economic Empowerment: Encourage vocational training and skill-building programs that help Dalits access better job opportunities beyond traditional, low-paying occupations.
• End Social Discrimination: Raise awareness about Dalit rights and challenge the deep-rooted caste-based stigma that keeps them marginalized. Promote social acceptance and inclusion in workplaces, schools, and communities.
• Advocate for Stronger Legal Protections: Push for the enforcement of anti-discrimination laws that protect Dalits from social injustice, wage inequality, and restricted access to public services.
• Support Organizations Working for Dalit Rights: Partner with local NGOs and advocacy groups working to promote Dalit welfare. Your donation, volunteer work, or voice can make a difference.

9.     Conclusion

The Dalit in Bangladesh have long faced systemic discrimination, economic struggles, and social exclusion, making it difficult for them to break free from the cycle of poverty and injustice. Despite constitutional protections and international human rights frameworks, Dalits continue to experience barriers to education, employment, healthcare, and legal justice.

However, change is possible. Through policy reforms, education, economic empowerment, and community advocacy, we can work towards a society where equality, dignity, and human rights are accessible to all. The fight for Dalit rights is not just their fight—it is a collective responsibility to ensure that every individual, regardless of caste or background, can live with dignity and opportunity.

To build a truly inclusive Bangladesh, government bodies, civil society, and individuals must come together to challenge caste-based discrimination and create lasting change. Awareness, action, and advocacy are the key pillars to ensuring social justice for Dalits and all marginalized communities. ???? The time to act is now. By supporting education, legal rights, and economic inclusion, we can break the barriers of discrimination and build a more equitable society where every Bangladeshi has the chance to thrive.

Writer: Dewan Akhtaruzzaman, Director, FAIR