Republic of Caste

Republic of Caste by Anand Teltumbde is distinct from most Dalit studies in recognizing the role of material conditions in determining the life conditions of untouchables in the caste system. What is problematic is the claim he makes about Ambedkar recognizing the role of material conditions in determining the plight of untouchables in the caste system. On the contrary, it is argued that Ambedkar did not have the conceptual vocabulary and theoretical framework to integrate the economic, political, and cultural components of caste from a historical perspective. Central to Ambedkar’s conceptualization of caste and emancipation from caste is Hinduism.