From Paraiyar to Adi-Dravidar: a critical documentary analysis of identity reclamation and persistent caste oppression in Tamil Nadu

Despite constitutional protections, the 14.4 million Scheduled Caste population in Tamil Nadu, predominantly comprising the Adi-Dravidar community, continues to experience severe systemic oppression. This critical documentary analysis examines the historical trajectory and contemporary lived experiences of the Adi-Dravidar community from 1881 to 2026. Using systematic analysis of 139 secondary sources- including peer-reviewed literature from Scopus, PubMed, and ResearchGate, legal archives, historical documents, and contemporary news reports, this study investigates the gap between symbolic identity reclamation and material social reality. The terminological shift from the pejorative “Paraiyar” to “Adi-Dravidar,” initiated by reformer Iyothee Thass in 1881, marked a significant symbolic victory in asserting indigenous identity. However, findings reveal that 71 documented forms of untouchability practices persist, alongside extreme violence ranging from contamination of water sources to honor killings. Analysis of landmark cases, including the Melavalavu political murders (1997), Vengaivayal water contamination (2022), and multiple honor killings (2003–2025), demonstrates that legislative safeguards remain insufficient. This study argues that symbolic identity transformation, while historically significant, cannot eliminate caste-based oppression without fundamental societal transformation and robust enforcement of anti-discrimination laws. The research contributes to understanding persistent inequality among marginalized populations in India and offers insights for policy interventions addressing structural discrimination.