The Worldfocus signature story “India’s untouchables trudge through sewers” explored the fate of India’s lowest class, forced to work in the sewers as a consequence of the country’s caste system.
Hema Konsotia is a member of India’s lower-caste Dalit community, known by some as the “untouchables.” She is also a college graduate and union activist who works with Dalits, teaching skills and urging political involvement.
Worldfocus correspondent Martin Himel introduces a pioneering young woman who advocates for others as she struggles to fulfill her own dreams.
11/17/2009 :: 10:56:30 PM
Steven Williams Says:
I worked in India for 8 months at a steel company in a relatively remote part of India. Safety concerns were absent. I mentioned that people cannot wear thongs (flip-flops) for foot wear and believe it or not they got boots — atleast for the guys I was working with. I saw people changing lamps in the high bay standing on a hoist/desk/and chair with no tie off! This was 1996 time frame.
I agree with other comments — nominate Hema Konsotia for the Nobel Peace Prize. She is shaking the belief system and it needs shaking. Perhaps it isn’t her time but it should be.
Problem is, discussions I had with Indian engineers while in Pittsburgh, PA (for training) was “we can hire people to shop, clean, garden, and take care of out children — can you?”. Middle class people like the way it is! Not to mention the better off.