Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Untouchability, a deeply entrenched form of social stratification in India, historically relegated certain communities to the margins of society, denying them basic human rights and dignity. Rooted in the varna system and reinforced by religious sanction, it manifested in various forms of social exclusion, economic exploitation, and political disenfranchisement. The struggle against untouchability has been a long and arduous one, marked by the tireless efforts of social reformers, religious leaders, and political activists. This answer will detail the significant social reforms undertaken in India to eradicate this social evil, spanning both pre- and post-independence periods.
Pre-Independence Social Reforms (Early 19th Century – 1947)
The initial phase of the movement against untouchability was largely driven by socio-religious reformers who challenged the legitimacy of the caste system and advocated for social equality.
- Brahmo Samaj (1828): Founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy, the Brahmo Samaj condemned untouchability as incompatible with the principles of monotheism and reason.
- Prarthana Samaj (1867): Mahadev Govind Ranade and others within the Prarthana Samaj actively campaigned against untouchability and promoted inter-caste dining.
- Arya Samaj (1875): Swami Dayananda Saraswati denounced the caste system and advocated for equal access to education for all, irrespective of caste.
- Jyotirao Phule (1827-1890): A pioneering social reformer, Phule founded the Satyashodhak Samaj (1873) to challenge Brahmanical dominance and fight for the rights of the marginalized, including those subjected to untouchability. He opened schools for lower castes.
- Sri Narayana Guru (1856-1928): In Kerala, Sri Narayana Guru led the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam, advocating for temple entry for all castes and challenging the rigid caste hierarchy.
- Mahatma Gandhi (Early 20th Century): Gandhi’s involvement was pivotal. He termed the untouchables as ‘Harijans’ (children of God) and launched movements like the anti-untouchability campaign in 1933, focusing on temple entry and sanitation work for Harijans.
Post-Independence Constitutional and Legal Reforms (1947 – Present)
Post-independence, the Indian Constitution provided a legal framework for dismantling untouchability and ensuring social justice.
- Article 17 of the Constitution (1950): Abolished untouchability and declared it a crime.
- The Untouchability (Abolition) Act, 1955: Renamed as the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955, this Act penalized the practice of untouchability and provided for the protection of civil rights of Scheduled Castes.
- Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989: This Act aimed to prevent atrocities against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes and provided for stricter penalties for such offenses. Amended in 2015 to include more offenses and enhance penalties.
- National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC): Established in 2004 (Constitutional Amendment 89th), the NCSC monitors the implementation of constitutional safeguards for Scheduled Castes and investigates complaints of discrimination.
- Reservation Policies: Reservation in education, employment, and political representation for Scheduled Castes has been a crucial affirmative action measure to address historical disadvantages.
Government Schemes and Initiatives
Several government schemes have been launched to uplift the socio-economic status of Scheduled Castes and address the lingering effects of untouchability.
| Scheme Name | Objective | Year Launched |
|---|---|---|
| Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme | Provides financial assistance to SC students for pursuing higher education. | 1944 (revised periodically) |
| Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAGY) | Aims to develop Scheduled Caste-dominated villages into model villages. | 2009 |
| Stand-Up India Scheme | Promotes entrepreneurship among women and Scheduled Castes/Tribes. | 2016 |
Challenges and Limitations
Despite legal and constitutional safeguards, the practice of untouchability persists in various forms, particularly in rural areas. Deep-rooted social prejudices, economic disparities, and lack of awareness continue to perpetuate discrimination.
- Manual Scavenging: Despite being outlawed, manual scavenging continues to be practiced in many parts of India, exposing individuals to hazardous conditions.
- Social Discrimination: Discrimination in access to public spaces, education, and employment remains a significant challenge.
- Implementation Gaps: Effective implementation of laws and schemes is often hampered by bureaucratic inefficiencies and lack of political will.
Conclusion
The social reforms aimed at removing untouchability in India represent a significant journey towards social justice and equality. While substantial progress has been made through constitutional provisions, legislative measures, and affirmative action policies, the complete eradication of this social evil remains a challenge. Continued efforts are needed to address the underlying social prejudices, promote awareness, and ensure effective implementation of existing laws and schemes. A multi-pronged approach involving government, civil society, and individuals is crucial to build a truly inclusive and equitable society.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.