Explore the historical and modern efforts to combat caste-based discrimination in India, including key figures and movements that challenged social inequalities.
Struggle Against Caste-Based Exploitation in India
Historical Context: Evolution and Discrimination within the Caste System
Caste System Evolution: The later-Vedic caste system evolved into numerous sub-castes due to racial admixture, geographical expansion, and diversification of crafts. This system dictated various aspects of social life, including education, property rights, profession, and social interactions.
Discriminatory Practices: ‘Untouchables’ (Scheduled Castes/Dalits) faced severe discrimination and were subjected to humiliating and inhuman practices based on inequality by birth.
Factors Mitigating Caste-Based Discrimination: British Rule, Reform Movements, and the Constitution
British Rule: Introduced equality before the law, secular education, and open administrative services. These measures disrupted traditional caste equations and provided new opportunities, helping to undermine caste consciousness.
Social Reform Movements: Organizations like Brahmo Samaj, Arya Samaj, and individuals such as Jyotiba Phule and B.R. Ambedkar worked to challenge caste discrimination and improve the status of untouchables. Movements aimed at spreading education and removing social restrictions.
National Movement: Leaders like Gandhi, through the All India Harijan Sangh, advocated for the eradication of untouchability and promoted principles of liberty and equality.
Constitution of Free India: Abolished untouchability and mandated non-discrimination based on caste. It ensures equal access to public facilities and promotes social justice.
Individual and Organizational Efforts: Leaders in the Fight Against Caste
Jyotiba Phule: Led a movement against Brahminical domination and emphasized education for lower castes, especially girls.
B.R. Ambedkar: Fought against upper caste tyranny, organized the All India Scheduled Castes Federation, and led significant movements such as the Mahad Satyagraha to challenge casteist customs.
Self-Respect Movement: Led by E.V. Ramaswamy Naicker, aimed at challenging caste-based restrictions and promoting social equality.
Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha: Established by Dr. Ambedkar to highlight the grievances of *dalits* and advocate for their rights.
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