Why Punjab’s Dalits remain divided

The article analyzes the political marginalization of the Scheduled Caste (SC) community in Punjab, despite constituting the highest percentage of the state's population (32%). It highlights that internal divisions among the 39 different SC castes, further split by religions and sects (Deras) like Ravidassias, Ad-Dharmi, Balmikis, and Mazhabis, prevent them from forming a unified political force. This fragmentation, coupled with mainstream political parties' focus on 'appeasement politics' rather than genuine empowerment through constitutional protections and reservation laws, has limited their political influence. The article notes the historical dominance of Jat Sikhs in Punjab politics and the brief tenure of Charanjit Singh Channi as the only Dalit Chief Minister since 1977. With the 2027 Assembly elections approaching, political leaders, including the Prime Minister and Chief Minister, are actively courting Dera followers, underscoring the significance of Dalit voters.