India, July 13 -- Apastamba Dharma Shastra 2.1.2.8; Vishnu Shastra 71.58-59; Satapatha Brahmana 14:1:1:31; Parasara Shashra 6.22; Kurma Purana 11.34.80; Usana Samhita 9.89: "Speaking with an Untouchable, looking at him, stepping on his shadow, is prohibited and making Dvija impure."

O Hindu,

But in Dalit memory, They are one long night.

A night that starts Whenever a non-Dalit Picks up a weapon Because someone Of "his" caste Was insulted By the sight Of a Mlechchha standing tall.

A night that continues In the laughter Of the acquitted men Leaving court, Garlanded, Celebrated, Hailed as defenders Of "honor," And "order."

A night that seeps Into the dreams, Of those of us Who were not there But know, We could be next For sitting in f...