Ghazipur: Deepmala’s resistance began twelve years ago in Ranipur village of Uttar Pradesh, when she confronted a practice rooted in caste oppression. During a meeting at the sarpanch’s home, she learned her own relative cleaned a pit latrine by hand. The sarpanch, whose household enforced this practice, dismissed her protest and later issued threats.
Deepmala, born in Mohammadabad into a community pushed into manual scavenging for generations, had questioned this life since childhood. She challenged village leaders directly and demanded accountability. Two months later, the latrine was rebuilt to end manual cleaning. The change strengthened her resolve and encouraged further action.
She then began speaking with families across the basti. Many feared loss of income. Deepmala asked why children should inherit work tied to humiliation. These conversations led families to declare an end to scavenging within their homes.
Her work expanded to address gender control. Girls in the basti faced strict restrictions on movement and education. Schooling often ended with marriage. Deepmala shared her own journey of studying in Allahabad, which challenged long held fears. Parents began allowing daughters to step out, study, and plan careers.
Today, girls from the same locality study in Banaras, Lucknow, and Allahabad. Many prepare for competitive exams and college admissions.
Deepmala now works with Global Champions for Dalit Women and other groups. As a Disom Fellow, she trained with We The People Abhiyan and learned rights based community education. She also started the Ambedkar Social Cafe, a space for dialogue and learning.
Her journey reflects steady resistance. Progress came through courage, persistence, and community trust.
Story by The Observer Post
