Introduction: Empowering the Harijan Community in Bangladesh

The Harijan community in Bangladesh, often referred to as Dalits or “untouchables,” has historically faced systemic discrimination and marginalization. Positioned at the bottom of the social hierarchy, the Harijan people have been denied access to basic human rights, including education, healthcare, and employment. Their social exclusion and economic hardships have been a persistent issue, deep-rooted in centuries of caste-based discrimination. Despite these struggles, the Bangladesh Harijan Oikko Parishad (BHOP) has emerged as a beacon of hope, advocating tirelessly for the rights, dignity, and empowerment of the Harijan community.

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of organizations such as BHOP, supported by key partners like FAIR, there has been significant progress in addressing these deep-seated issues. Through effective advocacy and grassroots movements, BHOP has been instrumental in bringing about positive changes in the lives of Harijan people, helping them secure better access to education, employment, healthcare, and social recognition. This article will explore the journey of BHOP, the impact of its work, and how the support of organizations like FAIR has been critical in its success.

Reformation and Brief History: The Beginning of Change

The journey of movement of the Bangladesh Harijan Oikko Parishad (BHOP) dates back to 1998, when the first-ever Harijan Grand Conference was held in Bangladesh. This historic conference, which brought together approximately 5,000 Harijan individuals from across the country, was a pivotal moment in the fight for equality. The conference laid the foundation for BHOP, an organization committed to advancing the rights of the Harijan community.

However, despite its early success, BHOP faced numerous challenges. Leadership struggles, lack of financial resources, and insufficient strategic planning led to a temporary halt in the organization’s activities. District-level committees began to disband, and the movement lost its momentum. This stagnation continued until 2007, when the intervention of FAIR and the Manusher Jonno Foundation provided a much-needed boost.

Turning Point of Reorganization: A New Dawn for BHOP

The turning point for BHOP came in 2008, after a survey conducted by FAIR in 28 districts of Bangladesh’s north-western region to assess the socio-economic conditions of the Dalit community. This survey provided critical insights into the challenges faced by Harijans and set the stage for the reorganization of BHOP.

In 2008, FAIR held a national conference in Kushtia, which brought together nearly 1,000 Harijan leaders and community members. This conference became a defining moment for BHOP, marking the beginning of a new era. The Kushtia Declaration, made during the conference, called for unity and solidarity within the Dalit community, highlighting the need for a more structured and effective leadership.

BHOP’s Goals and Objectives: Advocacy for Equality and Justice

After several rounds of discussions among leaders from various levels, a new ad hoc committee of 11 members was formed in July 2008 in Bogura.

At its core, BHOP’s mission is centered on securing the rights and dignity of the Harijan community. The organization’s primary objectives are as follows:

1. Formation of a Unified Movement: BHOP aims to create a united front for the Harijan people, advocating for their rights and establishing a strong platform for policy reform.
2. Engagement with Government Authorities: Ensuring that Harijan people have equal access to essential services, including healthcare, education, employment, and housing, by working closely with local and national government bodies.
3. Welfare Programs: The organization seeks to implement programs aimed at improving the socio-economic status of Harijans, including initiatives in education, healthcare, and alternative livelihoods.
4. Addressing Human Rights Violations: BHOP strives to address instances of discrimination and exploitation, advocating for legal reforms to protect Harijans from abuse and violence.
5. Building Alliances: Through national and international collaboration, BHOP aims to garner support for Harijan rights and push for systemic reforms to address caste-based discrimination.

The 5 Point Demands: A Roadmap for Justice

After years of workshops and dialogues, Bangladesh Harijan Oikko Parishad (BHOP) has outlined five point key demands to address the needs of the Harijan and Dalit communities. These demands, developed through nationwide discussions, are supported by organizations like FAIR, which provided technical and logistical assistance. With FAIR’s help, BHOP has clearly articulated these demands, aiming for justice and equality.

The five demands focus on securing dignity and human rights for Harijan and Dalit communities. Presented through seminars and rallies, they seek to engage the government and key stakeholders in creating a more inclusive society. Here are the five essential demands of BHOP in their pursuit of equality.

The five demands are:

1. Permanent Employment for Harijans: Ensure permanent jobs for Harijan individuals in municipal, city corporations, and public/private sectors, securing stable employment opportunities.
2. Job and Education Quotas: Reserve at least 80% job quota for Harijans in Cleaning and related roles across sectors, along with educational and job quotas for educated members of the community.
3. Anti-Discrimination Laws: Enforce laws that abolish caste-based discrimination and untouchability, making such practices punishable in all sectors.
4. Inclusion in Social Safety Nets: Guarantee Harijan and Dalit inclusion in social safety programs like pensions, disability allowances, and food assistance, ensuring access to essential welfare support.
5. Dignified Housing and Amenities: Provide Harijan and Dalit communities with dignified housing, basic amenities, and create new housing for landless families, ensuring safe living conditions.

A Flurry of Work: From Demands to Visible Change

The Harijan community in Bangladesh has endured social, political, and economic discrimination for generations. However, over time, they have continuously fought for the recognition of their rights and equality. The Bangladesh Harijan Oikko Parishad (BHOP) has played a crucial role in this struggle by advocating for the dignity, rights, and empowerment of the Harijan-Dalit community. With the invaluable support of FAIR, BHOP has not only raised key demands but also turned these demands into tangible progress that is now visible in society.

Through constant advocacy, programs, and grassroots mobilization, BHOP has significantly enhanced the visibility and inclusivity of theHarijan community in Bangladesh. This chapter highlights the major achievements and positive changes made through the efforts of BHOP, in partnership with organizations like FAIR, to bring about systemic change.

Key Achievements: From Advocacy to Change

1. Strengthening Leadership and Organizational Capacity

• With support from FAIR, BHOP reorganized its central and district committees, enhancing leadership through workshops and training.
• This has contributed to stronger and more effective leadership at both national and local levels, resulting in consistent advocacy for the Harijan Dalit community’s rights.

2. Grassroots Mobilization and Community Empowerment

• BHOP’s continuous programs have successfully mobilized the Harijan-Dalit community, bringing them together to fight for their rights.
• These efforts have increased community awareness and amplified support for the organization’s mission, strengthening its advocacy at all levels.

3. Educational Access and Empowerment

• Thanks to BHOP’s efforts, quotas for Harijan students in universities have been introduced, allowing increased access to higher education for Dalit students.
• This initiative plays a critical role in breaking the cycle of poverty and social exclusion, offering the youth a brighter future.

4. Increased Employment Opportunities

• The introduction of 80% job quotas for Harijans in sanitation and cleaning jobs has significantly increased employment opportunities within the public and private sectors.
• These quotas have created a path toward economic independence for the Harijan community in Bangladesh, promoting their economic stability.

5. Legal Reforms and Advocacy for Anti-Discrimination Laws

• Bangladesh Harijan Oikko Parishad (BHOP) has been instrumental in raising awareness about caste-based discrimination, advocating for anti-discrimination laws.
• As a result of their efforts, the Anti-Discrimination Act is now under consideration, which will ensure greater protection for Harijan-Dalit individuals against caste-based exploitation.

6. Cultural Visibility and Social Inclusion

• Through cultural initiatives and media campaigns, BHOP has worked to raise the profile of Harijan culture, promoting inclusivity within mainstream society.
• The community now enjoys greater visibility, challenging stereotypes and encouraging greater social acceptance and unity.

7. Housing and Socio-Economic Development

• Numerous housing projects initiated by local municipalities and city corporations have addressed the Harijan-Dalit community’s housing needs, offering safer and more dignified living conditions.
• These initiatives are crucial in improving the overall quality of life for the marginalized community.

8. Government-Backed Projects for Dalit Communities

• The Bangladesh government, through the Department of Social Services, has introduced key programs such as scholarships for Dalit students, vocational training programs, and allowances for the elderly.
• These projects focus on improving the socio-economic conditions of the Harijan and Dalit communities, providing critical support in education and livelihood opportunities.

Significant Impacts on the Harijan-Dalit Community in Bangladesh

The BHOP and its partners have played a transformative role in the lives of the Harijan community in Bangladesh. Their efforts have brought about notable social, economic, political and cultural changes. Below are the key impacts that have positively influenced the Dalit community in Bangladesh:

1. Political Impact:

• Creation of Advocacy Platforms: Through collaborations with organizations like the Bangladesh Harijan Student Okko Parishad, Bangladesh Harijan Jubo Okko Parishad and Harijan Women Okko Parishad, BHOP has created powerful platforms that amplify the voices of the Dalit community at the national level.
• Political Empowerment: These platforms have empowered Dalits politically, facilitating their participation in decision-making processes and enabling them to exert more influence in the political arena.

2. Economic Impact:

• Enhanced Job Opportunities: The implementation of job quotas in cleaning post has expanded employment opportunities for Harijan community, particularly in public and private sectors, improving their livelihoods.
• Increased Educational Access: The introduction of educational quotas has provided Dalit students with more opportunities to pursue higher education, leading to improved social mobility and enhanced economic prospects.
• Welfare and Social Services: Government-backed programs such as old-age pensions, disability allowances, and food assistance have been extended to Dalit communities, significantly improving their quality of life.
• Housing Development Initiatives: Local municipalities and city corporations have taken important steps in providing housing solutions for Dalit families, addressing the challenge of inadequate living conditions, although land ownership remains a barrier.

3. Social Impact:

• Raising Awareness and Ensuring Representation: BHOP’s advocacy campaigns have raised public awareness about Dalit rights, significantly reducing caste-based discrimination and fostering greater social inclusion.
• Boost in Educational Opportunities: Scholarships for Dalit students have reduced financial barriers, ensuring access to quality education and allowing them to advance socio-economically.
• Increased Public Engagement: Cultural and social initiatives, such as sports events and community programs, have amplified the visibility of Dalit culture, fostering understanding and societal acceptance.

4. Cultural Impact:

• Reduction in Discrimination: The combined efforts of FAIR and BHOP have helped challenge caste-based prejudices, promoting social harmony and reducing discrimination.
• Empowering Dalit Women: The creation of the Harijan Women Unity Parishad has empowered Dalit women, elevating their social status and enabling them to advocate for gender equality.
• Strengthened Dalit Identity: Through increased media visibility and cultural initiatives, Dalit communities now enjoy a stronger sense of cultural identity and greater representation in mainstream society.

The positive changes achieved through these initiatives by BHOP, supported by FAIR and other partners, have transformed the economic, social, and cultural landscape for Dalit in Bangladesh. As a result, ongoing efforts are creating a more inclusive, equitable society, addressing the remaining challenges and empowering Dalit communities to reach their full potential.

Challenges Persist: Ongoing Struggles for Equality

Despite significant achievements, BHOP still faces numerous challenges in its mission to achieve full equality for the Harijan community:

1. Internal Divisions: The Harijan community is divided into various sub-castes, leading to fragmentation and difficulty in building a unified platform for advocacy.
2. Resistance from Traditional Social Structures: Deep-seated caste-based prejudices within both the community and broader society continue to hinder progress.
3. Lack of Political Support: Despite growing support from civil society, the Harijan community still struggles with limited political representation.
4. Limited Resources: Financial constraints remain a significant challenge, limiting the scope and scale of BHOP’s initiatives.
5. Slow Legal Reforms: While anti-discrimination laws are being discussed, their slow implementation continues to be a barrier to real change.

The Role of FAIR and Manusher Jonno Foundation

Friends Association for Integrated Revolution (FAIR) has played a pivotal role in supporting the efforts of BHOP. Through technical assistance, logistical support, and strategic guidance, FAIR has helped BHOP strengthen its leadership, navigate the complexities of policy advocacy, and engage with key stakeholders. FAIR’s support has been instrumental in ensuring that BHOP’s initiatives are sustainable and impactful.

Manusher Jonno Foundation has also played a crucial role by providing the necessary financial support to BHOP. Their funding has allowed BHOP to expand its programs, reach more communities, and implement grassroots solutions. Together, FAIR and Manusher Jonno Foundation have been essential partners in the success of BHOP’s mission.

Call to Action: Join the Movement for Equality

While BHOP has achieved significant progress, there is still much work to be done. The fight for equality, justice, and dignity for the Harijan community in Bangladesh continues, and your support is vital. Whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or advocating for policy change, your involvement can make a meaningful difference.

Conclusion: A Future of Equality and Justice for All

The work of Bangladesh Harijan Oikko Parishad, with the support of partners like FAIR and Manusher Jonno Foundation, is reshaping the future of the Harijan community in Bangladesh. Through their tireless efforts, they have brought attention to the plight of Dalits, and their advocacy has paved the way for a more inclusive and equitable society. By supporting this movement, you contribute to the fight for justice and equality. Together, we can ensure that every individual, regardless of caste, enjoys equal rights and opportunities in Bangladesh.