Our History

In Bangladesh, there are 85 Indigenous groups spread across different regions. Among them, the Dalit community remains one of the most marginalized. Over time, systemic discrimination, social exclusion, and induced superstitions have undermined their cultural values, traditions, and collective strength. As a result, Dalits are pushed to the margins of mainstream society, often living in sub-human conditions. They are known by different names – Dalit, Scheduled Caste, forest people – but share common struggles rooted in illiteracy, dire poverty, malnutrition, and social neglect. These vulnerabilities, in turn, give rise to further problems such as alcoholism and early marriage.

Uddipto was established in 2003 with the specific mission of addressing these challenges and bringing Dalit communities into the fold of the mainstream. Founded by young Dalit men and women, Uddipto envisions a just and equal society where Dalits are recognized, respected, and valued in their cultural diversity, and are able to live as worthy and active citizens of Bangladesh. Uddipto strongly believes that freedom from exploitation can only be achieved when Dalit communities themselves are organized in a spirit of solidarity. The organization thus represents not only a movement for social justice but also the beginning of a Dalit renaissance – a pathway to reclaiming dignity and living a full human lif

Mission & Vision