An internal reservation policy should be enacted to ensure the representation of Dalit women in governance, including in the local bodies and the State Legislative Assembly, according to the Dalit Women’s Rights and Financial Independence Manifesto, 2026. The manifesto was brought out by former IAS officer and writer P. Sivakami on behalf of the All India Forum for Women Intellect. It stresses the need to transform Dalit women into producers in the workforce.
‘Panchami’ land
The manifesto points out that a high-powered land recovery commission should be established to recover ‘panchami’ land within 100 days of government formation and redistribute the land to the landless Dalit women. Priority must be given to homeless women in Dalit settlements in the allotment of individual apartments or concrete houses.
“Training in various fields should be given to women — and not just freebies — to promote economic freedom,” Ms. Sivakami said. Noting that economic empowerment is crucial for women, the manifesto stated that a dedicated government bank for Dalit women must be established to provide collateral-free and interest-free loans for starting small businesses.
“Every Dalit settlement must be transformed into an ‘agro-industry hub’, where factories for making value-added products will be established. A 25% priority quota will be provided to Dalit women in land allotment by government industrial bodies,” the manifesto said.
