Opinion | Metamorphosis of Dalit identities
Summary
Dalits in Nepal are increasingly legally changing their surnames to upper-caste names to avoid caste-based discrimination, creating complex social challenges and opportunities for future generations.
Key Points
- Many Dalits in Nepal hide or legally change their caste identity to avoid discrimination in urban areas like Kathmandu.
- Changing caste surnames legally provides temporary relief but does not alter social perceptions or caste hierarchy.
- The legal process for changing caste surnames is inconsistent and sometimes arbitrary, as shown by the case of Hari Pariyar.
- This shift offers opportunities for future generations to escape stigma but carries risks of exposure and anxiety for those who change identities.
