Dalits and Dalit Representatives in Rural Local Governance: Voices from the Field

Reservation of seats for Dalits in rural local bodies proportionate to their population through the 73rd Amendment to the Constitution of India has provided enormous opportunities for the Dalits to enter into the arena of decision-making, which will enable them to empower the entire Dalit Communities. Space for participation has been created for Dalits. But the moot question is whether the stakeholders are fully equipped to participate in the process of governance and development. The task is tough and difficult as the rural communities are strongly rooted in caste structure and community practices. Hence, the elected Dalit Representatives have to face volley of problems while discharging the duties and responsibilities. Despite the challenges, the Dalit Representatives have assumed power and offices. They are in struggle. It is visible through the reports of the media. They have to fight against all kinds of discriminatory practices in Periyar land. In order to understand the process of transformation of Dalits, a study has been undertaken in rural Tamil Nadu. In Periyar land how the Dalits are treated and how their voices are stifled are brought to light through this study. This study is the outcome of an intensive fieldwork done by a team of scholars in ';Evidence'. Condition of the Dalit representatives and the Dalits have been studied. Along with the above, a report of the public hearing on land rights violations has been attached in this small monograph.