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Dalits represent almost one quarter of India´s population and are considered to be outside of the Hindu caste system. Officially, untouchability was abolished with the adoption of the constitution in 1950. Caste and untouchability, however, continue to exist - not only in rural India. The term ´Dalit´ replaced former terms such as ´Harijan´ or Untouchable´ and is best understood within its social, historical and political context. For understanding the wider context of their ongoing struggle, it is important to know its history. Dr. Ambedkar, as the well-known representative of the Dalits, will be taken into consideration, but also others, such as Gandhi or the Dalit panthers. The content and positioning of Dalit literature is thus best understood in context to their situation. Using three selected literary works - Untouchable by Mulk Raj Anand, The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy and Joothan by Omprakash Valmiki, each representing a different background - we will make an attempt at understanding the struggle.

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After finishing her studies of English, History of Art and Sociology at the University of Frankfurt in 2007, Alexandra has been working in different areas, including a Non-Governmental Organisation working in the area of Dalit empowerment. Alexandra is currently working as an English teacher in Australia.

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