The Dalit perspective on the Indian National Movement offers a crucial counter-narrative to the mainstream, largely upper-caste dominated, historical accounts. While the mainstream movement primarily focused on achieving political independence from British rule, Dalit leaders, most prominently Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, argued that political freedom alone would be meaningless without the simultaneous eradication of the deeply entrenched social oppression of the caste system.

For Dalits, the primary oppressor was not just the British colonial power but also the Hindu social order that perpetuated untouchability, discrimination, and economic exploitation. They viewed the national movement, led largely by figures from privileged castes, as potentially replacing foreign rule with an indigenous one that might continue, or even solidify, their social subjugation. Ambedkar famously stated that for Dalits, 'Swaraj' (self-rule) meant not just freedom from British rule, but freedom from the tyranny of caste.

Key aspects of the Dalit perspective include:

1. Prioritizing Social Emancipation: Dalits argued that social reform and the annihilation of caste were prerequisites for true national liberation. They believed that a nation divided by caste could not be truly free or united.
2. Critique of Congress and Gandhi: Ambedkar was critical of the Indian National Congress for its perceived reluctance to address caste issues fundamentally and of Mahatma Gandhi's approach, which he felt romanticized the caste system (e.g., 'Varnashrama Dharma') and did not advocate for its complete abolition. While Gandhi worked for the upliftment of 'Harijans,' Ambedkar sought structural changes and political safeguards.
3. Demand for Political Representation: Dalits demanded separate electorates and reserved seats in legislatures to ensure their political voice and protect their interests, fearing that a majoritarian democracy would simply perpetuate their marginalization. The Poona Pact (1932) was a significant moment, where Ambedkar, under pressure, agreed to joint electorates with reserved seats instead of separate ones.
4. Focus on Rights and Justice: The Dalit movement emphasized human rights, dignity, and social justice, advocating for legal and constitutional provisions to outlaw discrimination and ensure equality. This led to their strong advocacy for a secular, democratic constitution in independent India that would guarantee fundamental rights and affirmative action.
5. Internationalism: Ambedkar often looked beyond India's borders for inspiration and support, drawing parallels between caste discrimination and racial discrimination, and advocating for universal human rights.

In essence, the Dalit perspective highlighted that the struggle for independence was incomplete without a simultaneous struggle for social justice and equality within Indian society. It forced a critical examination of the internal contradictions of Indian nationalism and laid the groundwork for the constitutional provisions and affirmative action policies aimed at uplifting marginalized communities in independent India.