We cannot too strongly condemn the barbarous Hindus who act violently towards Dalits; nor can we be too vocal in declaring that casteism is a violation of human rights akin to slavery.

For a graphic picture of the evils of caste in Hinduism, readers might benefit from viewing the video "I am Dalit. How are You?" at

Gandhi was cunning when he appropriated the Buddhist concept of "ahimsa" all the while clutching the Gita with its praise of war as duty. Dr. Ambedkar, the great liberator of Dalits, both taught and practiced ahima consistently throughout his life.

Truly we international Buddhists must stand together with our Dalit Buddhist brothers and sisters as they struggle to free themselves from the curse of caste.