An Ambedkarite social movement, the ‘Dalit Panthers Movement’ took place on this day, 1972. The Dalit Panther Organisation was founded by Namdeo Dhasal, Arjun Dangle, Raja Dhale, and J. V. Pawar in Maharasthra.

In the 1960s, inspired by the works of BR Ambedkar and the ‘Black Panthers Party’ in the US, the educated Dalit youth from the slums of Mumbai started becoming conscious of their rights and started mobilizing to fight against caste oppression and social inequality. 

Believing in the power of pen and books, the Dalit intelligentsia challenged the Hindu Oppressor caste-dominated media space with their anti-establishment writings giving a real description of revolutionary Dalit struggles. DPM boycotted elections, attacked Hindu deities, and voiced fearlessly against the Brahmanical ruling Congress Party to protest against the atrocities faced by Dalits. 


The movement took a formal shape in 1972. The Panthers expanded the definition of ‘Dalits’ and included other people who are oppressed, such as low (Scheduled) castes, neo-Buddhists, landless and poor peasants, and exploited women. 


The name Panthers had been adopted by them after reading about the US Black Panthers and similar struggles faced by the African-Americans under White supremacy. ‘Panther’ is a symbolism of their fearlessness, strength, and resolution to fight against their suppressors against all odds; just like a brave Panther.


Getting dissolved on March 7, 1977, due to intense political repressions, DPM managed to pass on its legacy in Dalit literature and politics. After the dissolution of DPM, Kamble and other leaders formed the Bhartiya Dalit Party (BDP) which spread its influence to nearly 20 states, especially in Southern India.