CASTE SYSTEM: UNTOUCHABILITY
The rigidity regarding pollution-purity has been weakening for last several decades the institution of untouchability is not functions in a rigid way. Its pollutional aspects to receded. The caste Hindus do not
seriously observe untouchability while dealing with the Harijans.
The Harijans, have also changed along with
changes in wider society. The caste Hindus observe untouchability on very few occasions like birth, marriage and community feasts and festivals. In day-to-
day life untouchability is not a consideration in relations between an upper caste man and a Harijan.
Since caste has become resilient and adaptive, a corresponding changes has occurred in the institution of untouchability as well. It is not that caste has withered away with all its class-like character, and untouchability has been continuing and vice-versa. Since caste remains a pivotal
force (in the grab of class, untouchability refers to a situation of exploitation, suppression and powerlessness of the wretched of the earth. Naturally, the exploiters are the well-off caste Hindus, landlords and big peasants. Harijans may not be doing today what they were forced to do a couple of decade ago, but they remain under the economic and social hegemony of the upper castes and the landed interests.
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