Reproduction of Inequality and Social Exclusion: A Study of Dalits in a Caste Society, Nepal

This book explores how the Nepali state has maintained a hierarchical social order by bringing outsiders, particularly ethnic groups and religious minorities, into the caste fold. It argues that the traditional caste-based social order is still prevalent in the "new" Nepal, with people born into the "high caste" having more access to resources and opportunities. Reservation policies have not been effective due to lack of engagement and ignorance of dominant groups and the community in the margin. Political actors' lack of clarity on positive discrimination and affirmative actions has contributed to backtracking the recently created space for "inclusive Nepal".

Format: Hardback
Length: 183 pages
Publication date: 06 January 2021
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This book provides a comprehensive exploration of the historical maintenance of hierarchy by the Nepali state, emphasizing the distinctiveness of a caste-based social order by incorporating outsiders, particularly ethnic groups and religious minorities, into the caste system. The author delves into the contemporary situation of Dalits, the marginalized community at the bottom of a highly stratified social structure in Nepal. Despite recent socio-political and constitutional changes, the author argues that the traditional caste-based social order persists in the "new" Nepal. The book is supported by scientifically employed and interpreted data across three sectors: education, politics, and employment. It demonstrates that individuals born into the "high caste" continue to have greater access to resources and opportunities in society compared to those born into the "lower" caste. Furthermore, the book suggests that while reservation policies are intended to address social exclusion, their effectiveness has been limited due to a lack of engagement and understanding among dominant groups and the marginalized community. The absence of clarity among political actors on positive discrimination and affirmative actions has contributed to a retreat from the progress achieved in creating an inclusive Nepal.

Weight: 448g
Dimension: 171 x 241 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811589072
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021