Project Title

Breaking Barriers: A Study on the Social and Legal Challanges of Dalit Youth in Inter-Caste Marriages

Project Objective

To investigate and document the social and judicial challenges experienced primarily by Dalit youth as a result of inter-caste marriages, and to produce a comprehensive report that supports evidence-based advocacy, legal reform, and protection of human rights.

Project Description

This is a one-time research and documentation project being implemented in partnership with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The project focuses on identifying and analyzing the discrimination, violence, legal hurdles, and social stigma faced by Dalit individuals, particularly youth, who enter into inter-caste marriages with non-Dalits. Despite constitutional guarantees of equality and legal protections against caste-based discrimination, many Dalit youths continue to experience systemic injustice, ranging from social ostracism to inadequate responses from law enforcement and judicial institutions. This study will collect qualitative and quantitative data through field investigations, stakeholder consultations, and case documentation. The findings will be compiled into a comprehensive research report, which will be shared with key stakeholders, including policymakers, civil society, and rights-based organizations. The aim is to inform future interventions, strengthen the justice system’s responsiveness, and promote social inclusion and equality by addressing deep-rooted caste-based prejudices.