1. Issues of Equality and Social Justice: Introduction
Conceptual Foundations
The Indian Paradox:
Indian society is simultaneously committed to constitutional equality and marked by persistent social inequality. The Constitution promises equality (Articles 14-17), but caste, gender, class, and religious inequalities remain deeply entrenched. This paradox — between constitutional ideals and social reality — is the central issue in debates on equality and social justice.
Two Dimensions of Equality:
| Dimension | Meaning | Indian Context |
|---|---|---|
| Formal Equality | Equality before law; prohibition of discrimination | Articles 14, 15, 16, 17 — constitutional guarantees |
| Substantive Equality | Equality of outcomes; correcting historical disadvantage | Reservation policy; protective discrimination; affirmative action |
Ambedkar's Vision:
Ambedkar argued that political equality (one person, one vote) is insufficient without social and economic equality. "Political democracy cannot last unless there lies at the base of it social democracy." Social democracy means "a way of life which recognizes liberty, equality, and fraternity as the principles of life."
Free. All OPSC Sociology Paper I and Paper II notes, with mains PYQs.
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- Issues of Equality and Social Justice: Introduction
- Constitutional Framework for Equality
- Reservation Policy: History and Evolution
- Indra Sawhney Case and the 50% Cap
- EWS Reservation: The 103rd Amendment
- Key Thinkers on Equality and Social Justice
- Ambedkar's Vision of Social Justice
- Beteille's Critique of Reservation
- Current Debates on Equality and Social Justice
- Dimensions of Social Justice: Gender, Minorities, Disability
- Q: Critically examine the issues of equality and social justice in contemporary India. (20 marks)