National Dalit Forum came into being in the year 2000, to respond the challenges faced by the Dalits along with other marginalized sections of the society. A few like-minded people met in the Centre for World Solidarity (CWS) Tarnaka, Secunderabad on 22nd September 19 in the context of the globalization, 73rd Constitutional Amendment, the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act and the Bhuria Committee
report. During the discussions it was agreed that Dalit assertion process in the spheres of social, political, cultural and economic conditions needs to be promoted and consolidated. It was also felt that collective responses were needed for Dalits to overcome the forces that make them vulnerable to the pressures of the landed and other vested interests. In spite of efforts by several Dalit groups, voluntary agencies and the Government over the years, the status and position of Dalits has not improved except as tokenisms. Dalits continue to face the problems of untouchability, low wages, discrimination, exploitation and atrocities, despite the formal protection guaranteed under the Constitution. The Dalit children are also forced to enter labour market. Their access to natural resources and information is very nominal. The National Dalit Forum has been established networks with 15 states across the country to understand and assess the situation of Dalits. NDF stand with the Dalits, women, Adivasis and other marginalised communities in their protest against the anti people policies of the governments. National Dalit Forum is working from its Head Quarters, Hyderabad of Andhra Pradesh.
