Our Story
The Centre for Dalit Rights (CDR) is a beacon of hope and justice for Rajasthan’s Dalit communities. Founded in 2003, CDR was born from the urgent need to confront deep-rooted caste discrimination that persisted despite constitutional guarantees. What began as a small group of passionate advocates has grown into a dynamic network of over 5,000 members—legal experts, journalists, academics, activists, and volunteers—united by a vision of equality and dignity for all.
For over two decades, CDR has stood at the forefront of the fight for Dalit rights, using strategic legal action, bold advocacy, and grassroots mobilization to challenge injustice and transform lives. We are especially committed to amplifying the voices of Dalit women and children, who face multiple layers of discrimination and vulnerability. Their stories and struggles are at the heart of our mission.
What sets us apart is our unwavering dedication to building both robust legal frameworks and empowered communities. By bridging grassroots activism with institutional engagement, we create sustainable pathways to justice, security, and opportunity.
Our journey continues, driven by the belief that every Dalit—especially women and children—deserves to live with dignity and hope. Join us as we work to make equality a reality for all.
Our Vision
We envision a just and inclusive society where every individual—regardless of caste—enjoys equal rights, opportunities, and respect. In a rapidly changing world, we strive to dismantle persistent hierarchies and ensure that the dignity and economic rights of Dalits, especially women and children, are protected and upheld. By integrating global human rights standards with local action, we aim to expose injustice, demand accountability, and drive transformative change at every level.
Our Mission
The Centre for Dalit Rights empowers Dalit communities—particularly women and children—to claim their rightful place in society. Through education, advocacy, and legal support, we build capacity, foster leadership, and mobilize collective action. Our mission is realized through:
- Rights-based awareness and education
- Strategic legal intervention
- Evidence-driven policy advocacy
- Community mobilization and network building
- Research and knowledge sharing
Our Key Milestones
2000
Secured life imprisonment sentences for perpetrators in the critical Baisa case.
2002
Successfully reclaimed water rights for Dalit communities following the landmark Chakwada incident.
2002
Abolished caste barriers in the Ashwamedh Yagya ritual, securing Dalit participation rights.
2005
Launched the groundbreaking Dalit Election Watch initiative to monitor electoral representation.
2006
Overcame legal obstacles to establish a statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar following sustained advocacy.
2006
Ensured appointment of Special Public Prosecutors in the Mohan Meghwal murder investigation.
2007
Successfully advocated for protection of Dalit land rights by preventing harmful amendments to Section 42B of the Rajasthan Tenancy Act 1955.
2012
Through strategic intervention led by P.L. Mimroth, achieved justice in the high-profile Bhanwari Devi murder case, resulting in ministerial accountability, ₹500,000 compensation, government employment for her son, and free education for her children.
2023
Culminated a 31-year struggle for justice in the Kumher incident with nine perpetrators receiving life sentences.
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Established the influential Dalit Mahila Manch (DMM), creating a powerful platform for Dalit women's leadership.
Awards
PILLARS OF CDR
Governing Board
Adv. Satish Kumar
President
Mr. Rakesh Valmiki
Vice President
Mr. Hemant Mimroth
Secretary
Mrs. Mohani Devi
Member
Mrs. Sushila Nagar
Member
Ramdyal Bairwa
Member
Shri G.C. Jarwal
Member
Team
Chanda Lal Bairwa (Adv)
Deputy Director
Mukesh Mehra
Finance Officer
Kushbu Solanki (Adv),
State Coordinator
Kashmira Singh
State Coordinator, Dalit Mahila Manch
Taufique Nadim ‘Palaash’
Research and Communication Officer
Mangi Lal Bairwa
Program Coordinator
Sunita Bairwa (Adv)
District Coordinator, Dausa