The composition comprises a collection of anecdotes from Ambedkar himself and other individuals, intended to exemplify the practice of untouchability in Indian society.
In a single-paragraph introduction, Ambedkar introduces the theme of the book, primarily aimed at foreigners and those who may not be familiar with the concept of untouchability.
The first section describes a trip undertaken in 1901 by nine-year-old Ambedkar and his siblings from their residence in Satara to Goregaon to meet their father, and the discriminatory behavior they encounter along the way, making their journey appear impossible and dangerous.
Ambedkar, recounting this episode, states that the pride and dignity of the village untouchables (due to their unwillingness to bring their guest on foot) led them take unnecessary risks regarding the safety of the passenger.
Ambedkar also reflects on the fact that even menial Tonga walas inherently felt that a highly educated barrister at law was below them due to his status as an untouchable.
[5] This section relates to an incident that serves to illustrate Indian Muslims invariably retaining the same prejudice against untouchables as Hindus.
The local doctor (who was a Hindu (Brahmin)) refused to treat her directly, or even enter into their village, due to their low caste status.
The doctor eventually agreed to see the ill woman, but only on the condition that she was brought outside the Harijan colony and diagnosed and treated without physical contact.
Ambedkar concludes the chapter, stating, "He [the doctor] felt no qualms of conscience in setting aside the code of conduct which is binding on his profession.
In this section, Ambedkar presents the narrated experience of a young man in Bhangi who was employed as a Talati in the government district offices of Borsad, Kheda, in what is now Gujarat.