Caste, Rights, and Dalit Shakthi: Exploring Vulnerability, Social Exclusion, and Affirmative Action in Telangana

Caste continues to be a defining axis of inequality in India, shaping access to resources, opportunities, and dignity. Dalits, historically subjected to systemic exclusion and discrimination, remain among the most vulnerable groups despite constitutional safeguards and affirmative action. This study focuses on Dalit communities in Telangana, with particular reference to the role of Dalit Shakthi as a mobilizing and empowering force. The objective of the research is to examine the socio demographic profile of Dalits, assess their experiences of discrimination, evaluate their awareness of rights, and analyse the impact of Dalit Shakthi’s interventions in fostering empowerment, cultural identity, and political consciousness. The importance of the study lies in its contribution to understanding the paradox of Dalit progress: while education and occupational diversification are evident, discrimination persists as a structural reality. By documenting the role of grassroots mobilization, the research highlights the necessity of complementing state affirmative action with community based initiatives. Methodologically, the study adopted a descriptive design, employing simple random sampling to select 328 respondents across Telangana. Data were collected through a structured interview schedule and analysed using SPSS software, with frequencies, cross tabulations, and chi square tests applied to interpret patterns. The results reveal high educational attainment among Dalits, with nearly three fourths completing graduation or post graduation, alongside significant occupational diversification. Yet, 69.5% reported facing discrimination, underscoring persistent vulnerability. Dalit Shakthi emerged as a pivotal actor, with 84.1% respondents affirming its support during discrimination and 86.6% recognizing its literacy initiatives. The study’s significance lies in its demonstration that grassroots mobilization, coupled with affirmative action, can foster multidimensional empowerment, cultural pride, and political consciousness, offering a model for inclusive development in India.