Section Article

THE DALITS OF INDIA AND THE IMPACT OF CHRISTIANITY
Author(s): Dr. Bhawana Sharma

Abstract
The socio-religious history of Dalits in India has been profoundly shaped by systemic caste-based discrimination economic marginalization and social exclusion. The arrival and spread of Christianity in India presented an alternative avenue for social mobility emancipation and identity formation for Dalit communities challenging centuries-old hierarchies entrenched within Hindu society. This research paper examines the multifaceted impact of Christianity on the Dalits of India focusing on historical conversion patterns socio-economic upliftment educational opportunities cultural integration and the evolution of collective identity. By analyzing primary and secondary sources census data missionary records and sociological studies the paper explores how conversion influenced Dalits’ social status political participation and access to resources. The study also investigates the complex interplay between religious conversion residual caste identities and the broader structural inequalities that persist despite formal adherence to egalitarian principles promoted by Christianity. A comparative approach is employed to assess the extent of empowerment the limitations of conversion as a liberatory tool and the enduring challenges faced by Dalits within the Indian social fabric. The ultimate aim is to provide an informed understanding of how religious transformation intersects with caste social justice and identity politics in contemporary India.