This article examines the relationship between Dalit activists' identities and their political mobilisation. It explores how these activists, who are frequently portrayed in the media as dirty and 'backward,' come to terms with and embrace their identities as Dalits. The word ''Dalit'' is used in the same emic context as it was by the activists when discussing this idea. To reiterate, the activists identify as ''Dalit,'' a term they extend to all Scheduled Castes in India, as well as ''Dalit'' Christians and Muslims. Some people who may or may not have been considered members of the ''Untouchable'' caste in India are referred to by this word. The activists' use of the phrase gives me insight into who they regard themselves as representing, and it seems to me to be a challenge to the SC's decision to exclude Christians and Muslims. In contrast to others who just accept the ''Dalit'' label without question, I wish to draw attention to and evaluate its application. So that it is obvious that the claims I make here do not apply to the Dalit population at large but rather to the context of this study, I shall use the term ''activist'' to refer to these individuals