Caste, Patriarchy and Power: A Sociological Study of Challenges Faced by Scheduled Caste Women in Contemporary India

Abstract

Scheduled Caste (SC) women in India face an acute intersection of caste-based discrimination and gendered oppression. Despite constitutional guarantees and affirmative action, they remain among the most marginalized social groups. According to the National Family Health Survey-5 (2021), only 39.2% of SC women aged 15–49 have completed 10 or more years of schooling, compared to 52.7% among upper-caste women. The National Crime Records Bureau (2022) reports that crimes against SC women have risen by 17.5% in the last five years, with sexual violence accounting for a significant share. This article explores the layered challenges experienced by SC women—including violence, exclusion, and lack of access to resources—and critically analyzes their systemic marginalization. The research is geographically focused on Tumkur district in Karnataka, providing an in-depth view of caste-gender dynamics at the local level. Drawing from government reports, empirical data, and academic literature, the study provides a sociological understanding of their lived experiences and investigates the roles of patriarchy, caste hierarchy, and institutional failures. It further assesses the gaps in policy implementation and recommends structural and participatory interventions for inclusive empowerment. The research employs both quantitative and qualitative methods, including secondary data analysis and case studies, to provide a comprehensive picture. Ultimately, the study underscores that true empowerment of SC women requires dismantling caste-patriarchy, improving education and employment access, enforcing protective legislation, and enabling grassroots activism.