Test: Social Justice and the Marginalized - Class 8 MCQ

Social and economic marginalization often manifests in the job market as difficulty in finding jobs for marginalized groups. Factors such as discrimination, lack of education, and limited access to networks exacerbate their challenges in securing employment. This situation highlights the need for targeted policies and interventions to support and empower these communities in the labor market.

The term "adivasis" refers to Scheduled Tribes (STs) in India. This group comprises various indigenous communities that have unique cultures and lifestyles, often residing in forested areas. Adivasis are recognized for their distinct cultural practices and are often marginalized due to their ethnicity. Government initiatives aim to protect their rights and promote their welfare.

One of the significant consequences of the zamindari system for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) was landlessness and poverty. The zamindari system concentrated land ownership in the hands of a few, often excluding SCs and STs from land rights. As a result, many were left landless and dependent on low-paying labor, perpetuating cycles of poverty and marginalization.

The primary purpose of reservations in India is to promote equal opportunities for underprivileged groups, such as Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). This system aims to address historical injustices and provide these communities with better access to education, jobs, and political representation. The reservations are designed to level the playing field and ensure that marginalized groups can compete fairly in society.

The Sarvjan Hitai Sanrakshan Samiti led the UP government employees strike primarily to oppose the quota bill that proposed reservations for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in job promotions. The leadership argued that such reservations in promotions would not be in the national interest and could lead to further divisions within society. This concern reflects ongoing debates about the effectiveness and implications of reservation policies in India.

The Mandal Commission recommended a 27% reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in public jobs and higher education. This recommendation was aimed at addressing social and educational disadvantages faced by OBCs, seeking to enhance their representation in various sectors. The implementation of this recommendation significantly influenced the reservation policy landscape in India.

Forest policies in India have often forced tribal communities to abandon their traditional livelihoods, which are closely linked to their ancestral lands and natural resources. These policies can lead to economic displacement and restrict the ability of tribes to engage in their customary practices, pushing them into low-paying jobs and worsening their socio-economic conditions. This highlights the need for policies that respect and protect the rights of tribal communities.

Marginalized groups often face discrimination and social stigma when trying to access housing. This challenge is compounded by their low social status and economic limitations, making it difficult for them to secure rental agreements or purchase homes. The intersection of social prejudice and economic barriers creates significant obstacles to stable housing for these communities.

A key characteristic of Scheduled Tribes (STs) in India is that they often avoid contact with mainstream society. STs, or adivasis, maintain distinct cultural practices and lifestyles, often living in forested or rural areas. Their social organization is typically less hierarchical than that of caste groups, and they have unique spiritual beliefs that are closely tied to nature and their ancestral lands.

Article 46 of the Indian Constitution directs the state to promote the educational and economic interests of weaker sections, particularly Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. This provision reflects the government's commitment to uplift marginalized groups and ensure they have access to resources and opportunities that can help improve their socio-economic status. It underscores the importance of inclusivity in national development.

Article 40 of the Indian Constitution reserves one-third of seats in Panchayati Raj institutions for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). This provision is aimed at ensuring political representation and participation of marginalized communities in local self-governance, fostering inclusive democracy at the grassroots level.

The term "untouchables" is a derogatory label historically used for certain castes, particularly those engaged in tasks considered impure or lowly, such as manual scavenging. This term has significant negative connotations and reflects the deep-rooted social stigma and discrimination faced by these communities. The practice of untouchability has been abolished, yet the social impact remains a challenge in modern India.

Article 15(5) of the Indian Constitution allows for special provisions for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and backward classes in private educational institutions. This provision aims to enhance access to quality education for these groups, which have historically faced barriers to educational opportunities, thereby promoting their overall socio-economic development.

Article 16(4A) of the Indian Constitution allows for reservations in promotions for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). This provision aims to ensure that these historically marginalized groups have equitable opportunities for advancement within public service, acknowledging the systemic disadvantages they face.

The Prevention of Atrocities Act (1989) aims to protect marginalized groups, particularly Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, from discrimination and ill-treatment. This legislation is designed to provide legal recourse and safeguard the rights and dignity of these communities against various forms of violence and social injustice. It reflects the government's commitment to ensuring justice for historically oppressed groups.

Mahatma Gandhi referred to Scheduled Castes as "Harijans," which means "Children of God." This term was intended to uplift the status of SCs and eliminate the stigma associated with untouchability. Gandhi's advocacy played a significant role in raising awareness about the rights and dignity of these communities, contributing to the broader movement for social reform in India.

The caste system historically led to the social and economic exploitation of Scheduled Castes (SCs) in India. Many SCs were relegated to low-status jobs and denied access to education and resources, resulting in systemic poverty and marginalization. The legacy of the caste system continues to affect their socio-economic conditions, which is why affirmative action policies like reservations are crucial for their upliftment.

Article 335 of the Indian Constitution allows for relaxed qualifying marks for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in educational institutions and promotions. This provision is intended to ensure that these groups, who have historically faced educational disadvantages, have better opportunities to succeed academically and professionally, thereby helping to bridge the gap created by systemic inequities.

Article 17 of the Indian Constitution explicitly abolishes untouchability and prohibits its practice in any form. This landmark provision is crucial in the fight against discrimination and social injustice, aiming to uplift marginalized communities and ensure their dignity and equality in society. Untouchability was historically a significant barrier for many communities, and its abolition marked a significant step toward social reform in India.

Currently, 15% of reservations are allocated for Scheduled Castes (SCs) in India. This reservation is part of a broader policy framework aimed at improving access to education, public jobs, and other opportunities for SCs, who have faced historical disadvantages. The reservation system is a critical tool in promoting social equality.