02 October - Anti-Untouchability Week 02 October to 08 October

 

Anti-Untouchability Week, also known as "Samta Sainik Dal Movement Week," is observed in India to raise awareness about the issue of untouchability, promote social equality, and eliminate caste-based discrimination. The observance of this week reflects India's commitment to eradicating the practice of untouchability and promoting the ideals of social justice and equality.

The Anti-Untouchability Week is typically observed from October 2nd to October 8th each year. During this week, various programs and initiatives are organized across the country to address the following objectives:

1. Create Awareness: The week aims to create awareness among the general public about the persistence of untouchability and caste-based discrimination in various forms and contexts.

2. Promote Social Equality: It underscores the importance of social equality and emphasizes that no individual or group should be considered inferior or subjected to discrimination based on their caste or social status.

3. Educational Initiatives: Schools, colleges, and educational institutions often organize special programs, lectures, and discussions on the history and consequences of untouchability to educate students about this issue.

4. Community Engagement: Various social organizations, NGOs, and government agencies work together to engage communities in activities aimed at eradicating untouchability and promoting social harmony.

5. Legal and Policy Framework: The week provides an opportunity to highlight and discuss the legal and policy measures in place to address untouchability, such as laws against caste-based discrimination and affirmative action policies.

6. Cultural Programs: Cultural events, workshops, seminars, and exhibitions are often organized to celebrate the diversity of Indian society and promote unity among different caste and community groups.

The observance of Anti-Untouchability Week serves as a reminder of the importance of eradicating caste-based discrimination and promoting social justice in India. It is part of the broader effort to address the historical and deep-rooted social issues related to caste and untouchability and to work towards a more inclusive and equitable society.

The above stamp is of Mahad Satyagraha or Chavdar Tale Satyagraha was a satyagraha led by B. R. Ambedkar on 20 March 1927 to allow untouchables to use water in a public tank in Mahad (currently in Raigad district), Maharashtra, India.The day (20 March) is observed as Social Empowerment day in India.