Dalit-friendly workplace: A call for change

Being raised in a society that discriminates based on caste is like having a continual cloud of uncertainty, anxiety and insecurity. This cloud represents a reality that affects every part of the life of individuals who belong to the untouchable castes, not just a metaphor. The caste system in which Dalits are reared determines their value and potential long before they have the opportunity to establish their own identities, which contributes directly to the inferiority complex that develops among Dalits.

A lifetime of covert and overt reminders of one’s ‘place’ in the social hierarchy fosters the development of this inferiority complex. Dalits are painfully made aware from an early age that they are ‘different’ and that everyone around them view them as inferior because of their caste. Whether it is through the condescending attitudes of teachers, the dismissive behavior of neighbors, or the whispered insults of classmates, the message is clear: Dalit are not equal, and they never will be.

The psyche is deeply scarred by these experiences. Dalits start to absorb the idea that they are essentially less valuable than other people and that, as a result of their caste identity, they should not be given the same opportunities and respect. Dalit’s self-fulfilling prophecy affects their relationships, confidence and capacity for success in life. A voice that murmurs, ‘You don’t really deserve this,’ lingers in the background of a Dalit’s mind even after they accomplish something notable. Colleagues who don’t value them often serve to confirm this doubt.

I recall a particular incident from my time working as a Deputy Team Leader for a consultancy firm. Most of the reports in that office were drafted by me, serving as the foundation for my colleagues’ work and ultimately receiving approval. Despite my central role in the team, I encountered a team leader and member from the management team who consistently treated me with disrespect. This wasn’t just a clash of personalities; it was a deep-seated issue that triggered my long-standing feelings of inferiority. Instead of engaging in constructive dialogue, I found myself on the defensive, constantly trying to prove my worth in the face of his dismissive attitude. This experience not only disrupted my work but also made me leave the office forever.

This sense of isolation is compounded by the lack of understanding or empathy from colleagues. When Dalits express anger or frustration, it is often met with confusion or defensiveness, rather than a genuine attempt to understand where they are coming from. Colleagues may see this anger as irrational or unjustified, not realizing that it stems from a lifetime of dealing with the subtle and not-so-subtle indignities of caste discrimination.

Dalits frequently experience a sense of alienation and a lack of belonging in jobs where the majority caste is higher. They are distinguished by their caste identities, and it is far too simple to blame any unfavorable encounters on these underlying distinctions. It feels less like a professional dispute and more like an attack on their identity when someone challenges or disagrees with their thoughts; they are being rejected not for the quality of their arguments but rather for the perceived inferiority of their caste.

There is a praiseworthy attempt in many contemporary organizations to develop gender-friendly cultures where workers of all genders are treated with decency and respect. In many workplaces, policies including the promotion of gender equality, gender sensitivity training, and zero tolerance for gender-based violence, sexual exploitation and abuse, and sexual harassment have become the norm. These initiatives aim to foster an environment at work where everyone, regardless of gender, feels safe, respected and appreciated in addition to following the law.

Caste should be subjected to the same degree of sensitivity and intolerance. It ought to be immoral to treat someone differently based on their caste, just as it is wrong to treat someone unfairly based on their gender. In order to guarantee that no one feels less than or uncomfortable due to their caste identification, offices have to be welcoming to Dalits.

To achieve this, workplaces must implement policies and practices that actively promote caste sensitivity. All staff members should get training on the effects of caste discrimination, the value of inclusivity and the necessity of treating everyone with respect. Team leaders and managers need to be especially aware of how caste dynamics might manifest in the workplace and try to foster a culture where all workers, regardless of caste, feel respected, safe, and supported.

Even after a careful search, it can be challenging to locate even one Dalit within a large organization! This is a result of their systematic exclusion rather than a lack of qualifications or ability on the part of Dalits. Understanding and being able to communicate with Dalits is crucial. It is even forbidden for a Dalit to pose inquiries at the office. Dalits are proven wrong even when they are correct. This concerns not just justice, but also fundamental human dignity.

Dalits are also human beings! Putting oneself in their shoes will help you understand their challenges. Reminding a Dalit of their ‘place’ each time serves to perpetuate an oppressive system that has no place in a fair and just society. 

Recognizing Dalits’ humanity and fostering an environment where they can flourish are more important goals of developing a Dalit-friendly workplace than merely following rules or checking boxes. It’s about making sure that no one’s caste identification causes them to feel inferior or unfit. We won't be able to start tearing down the profoundly embedded caste-based discrimination that still exists in our culture until workplaces are genuinely inclusive, considerate, and encouraging. Although achieving equality will not be simple, we must travel this route together.

The author is a sociologist 

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