how far has india been able to prevent discrimination in society Relat...
India has been very successful in controlling the discrimination to some extent by various methods . By making everyone equal (Right to equality article 14-18) where the Article 15 prohibits discrimination 'only' on the basis of religion, race, caste, sex, place of birth, or any of them.Though the constitution of India promises non-discrimination t it will become a reality only when these constitutional promises against discriminatory acts require legislative backing in the form of anti-discrimination laws, and these must be extended to private and non-state spheres as well.
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how far has india been able to prevent discrimination in society Relat...
Introduction:
Discrimination in Indian society has been a long-standing issue that has affected various sections of the population. Over the years, the Indian government has implemented several measures to prevent discrimination and promote equality and social justice. However, the extent to which India has been able to completely eradicate discrimination from society is a complex question that requires a comprehensive analysis.
Constitutional Provisions:
- The Indian Constitution provides various provisions to prevent discrimination and promote equality. Article 14 guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the law to all individuals.
- Article 15 prohibits discrimination on the grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. It also allows the government to make special provisions for the advancement of socially and educationally backward classes.
- Article 16 ensures equal opportunities in public employment and prohibits discrimination on the grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, descent, place of birth, or residence.
Legal Framework:
- India has enacted several laws and regulations to prevent discrimination. The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, aims to prevent atrocities against marginalized communities.
- The Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013, prohibits the engagement of individuals in manual scavenging and provides for their rehabilitation.
- The Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955, prohibits discrimination against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes and provides for penalties for offenses committed.
- The Right to Education Act, 2009, ensures free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14 years and prohibits discrimination in schools.
Social Initiatives:
- Various social initiatives have been taken to combat discrimination in India. The National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) provides guaranteed employment to rural households, especially marginalized sections.
- The Mid-Day Meal Scheme aims to provide free meals to children in government schools to ensure their nutrition and encourage school attendance.
- The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) aims to eliminate open defecation and ensure sanitation facilities for all, addressing the issue of caste-based discrimination related to manual scavenging.
Challenges and Progress:
- Despite the constitutional provisions and legal framework, discrimination still persists in Indian society. Caste-based discrimination, gender inequality, religious discrimination, and discrimination against tribal communities are some of the challenges that need to be addressed.
- However, efforts have been made to raise awareness and address these issues. Various organizations and NGOs are working towards creating an inclusive society and fighting against discrimination.
- The reservation policy in educational institutions and government jobs has helped in providing opportunities to marginalized communities and reducing discrimination to some extent.
- The implementation of affirmative action programs, such as reservation policies, has helped in empowering marginalized sections and promoting social equality.
Conclusion:
India has made significant efforts to prevent discrimination in society through constitutional provisions, legal framework, and social initiatives. However, complete eradication of discrimination remains a challenge. It requires continuous efforts, awareness, and a change in societal mindset to build an inclusive and equitable society.
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