‘Rich get richer, poor get killed’: In Bihar’s Gaya, election cycle leaves behind Mahadalits

The Manjhi community in southern Bihar and Sadas in northern Bihar – also called Musahars or rat-eaters – are Mahadalits, among the most downtrodden.

Making up about 22 lakh people in Bihar, as per a 2007 report, they are considered untouchables and are severely disadvantaged and socially excluded. Historically, the community worked as bonded labourers and depended on undecided largesse handed out by landlords.

Their poverty is entrenched, alongside untouchability, landlessness, illiteracy, and malnourishment. Government programmes and initiatives have only gone so far. And with the general elections around the corner, there’s little hope of escape among India’s poorest people.

Watch and find the detailed report on our website.

Subscribe to Newslaundry: https://www.newslaundry.com/subscript...
Power NL and TNM's coverage of the 2024 general elections: https://www.newslaundry.com/2024-elec...
Download the all-new Newslaundry app: https://www.newslaundry.com/download-app
Join us on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va61...

Follow and engage with us on social media:
Facebook:   / newslaundry  
Twitter:   / newslaundry  
Instagram:   / newslaundry