Dalits were once more commonly known as “untouchables” under the caste system. Maid Ambadipudi Mariyamma, 44, was allegedly tortured before her death.

“Police brutality upon them is nothing new,” said Father Z. Devasagaya Raj, former secretary of the Indian bishops’ office of Dalits. “Anyone who speaks up for Dalits and the downtrodden is subject to attacks or branded anti-national.”