1. Identity politics and a shift from the desire for social justice to aspiration impacted by globalisation and cultural modernisation, creating a divide between the better-off middle class and the marginalised section of Dalits. 

2. The revival of the BSP under new leadership, its promise of economic development and cultural inclusion. It has attracted the lower castes and created an ideological divide between the Ambedkarite or pro-BSP and Hindutvawadi or pro-BJP Dalits. 

These rapid and significant shifts in the 2000s have caused internal fragmentation within the Dalit community, which is the major challenge for Aazad and his newly formed party.

A significant development during the 1990s was the gradual emergence of a small, but influential, young, educated and politically aware Dalit middle class. This new class reached a ‘critical mass’ when the Indian polity experienced globalisation. With this move towards a market-oriented economy, the Dalit movement has also evolved over the last two decades

While the movements and parties such as BSP mobilised on issues of socio-political empowerment such as identity, dignity and self-respect, the rising middle-class Dalit intellectuals focus on different issues. They emphasise on the need for economic empowerment through a variety of new means, which represents the rise of middle-class activism among Dalits. 

5. Successful and Prominent Dalit leaders

Several successful and prominent Dalit leaders have made significant contributions to Indian politics, social justice, and various fields. These leaders have played key roles in advocating for the rights and welfare of Dalits and other marginalized communities. Here are a few notable Dalit leaders:

1. B.R. Ambedkar: Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, often referred to as the "Father of the Indian Constitution," was a prominent Dalit leader and social reformer. He was a key architect of the Indian Constitution and fought for the rights and dignity of Dalits. Ambedkar also founded the Scheduled Castes Federation and converted to Buddhism as a protest against the caste system.

2. K.R. Narayanan: Kocheril Raman Narayanan was India's first Dalit President. He served as the President of India from 1997 to 2002 and was known for his dignified and inclusive leadership.

3. Mayawati: Mayawati, the leader of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), has served multiple terms as the Chief Minister of the state of Uttar Pradesh. She is known for her advocacy for Dalits and other marginalized groups and has played a significant role in Uttar Pradesh politics.

4. Jyotirao Phule: Mahatma Jyotirao Phule was a social reformer and pioneer in the movement for the rights of Dalits and women. He was a strong advocate for education and founded the Satyashodhak Samaj to challenge the caste system.

5. Ram Vilas Paswan: Ram Vilas Paswan was a prominent Dalit leader who served in various ministerial positions in the Indian government over several decades. He founded the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) and was known for his advocacy for social justice.

6. Udit Raj: Udit Raj is a politician and social activist who has been associated with various political parties and has worked to raise the voice of Dalits and other marginalized communities.

7. Meira Kumar: Meira Kumar served as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, making her the first woman to hold that position. She is also a prominent Dalit leader.

8. Chhagan Bhujbal: Chhagan Bhujbal is a prominent Dalit leader from Maharashtra and has held various ministerial positions in the state government.

9. Prakash Ambedkar: Prakash Ambedkar, the grandson of B.R. Ambedkar, is a lawyer and politician who has been active in advocating for the rights of Dalits and other marginalized communities.