A constructive approach, not polemic, is needed to address Dalit concerns

More nuanced conversations on the representation of the socially vulnerable sections are needed. Industry, media and civil society should take the discussion on social diversity at leadership positions ahead.

There is a need to redefine the contours of social justice in our country.

Last year, in March, India witnessed massive protests by Dalit organisations over the dilution of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The protests were a response to the Supreme Court’s direction barring automatic arrests and the provision of anticipatory bail for the accused in cases of atrocities against Dalits and tribal communities. It also ruled that public servants will not be prosecuted without the approval of the appointing authority. The apex court recently overturned the verdict, acknowledging the unimaginable levels of oppression faced by the socially disadvantaged sections of the society.