Final answer:
Dalits were known as 'untouchables' due to their traditional jobs in 'polluting activities', and they faced discrimination and exclusion from higher-caste members based on their caste in Hindu society.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Dalits, also known as 'untouchables,' were identified as such due to their traditional occupation in 'polluting activities,' such as handling dead animals or working with waste. They were considered impure and were discriminated against by higher castes, being restricted from entering Hindu places of worship and using the same sources of drinking water.
Additionally, Dalits often had to work at night and sleep during the day, and certain restrictions were imposed on them, such as removing their shoes while passing by upper-caste neighbors.
The term 'untouchables' is derived from the Indian caste system, where castes were ranked in a hierarchical structure. Dalits, being at the lowest rung of the social ladder, were seen as the lowest of low and were deemed impure and polluted. This social discrimination and exclusion of Dalits from various aspects of life based on their caste pushed them to convert to religions like Christianity, Buddhism, or Islam in order to escape the oppression.