The caste system, a long-standing social hierarchy in India, impacts both the society and economy while playing a significant role in determining economic mobility, ownership patterns, and access to political, social, and economic opportunities. It’s noteworthy that Seattle recently became the first U.S. city to ban caste-based discrimination, offering protection to caste along with race, gender, and religion.
Insights into Social Discrimination in India
There are approximately 200 million Dalits in India as per the data from the Census (2011). The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data from 2021 revealed an increase in registered cases of crimes against Scheduled Castes (SCs), particularly high in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. A report by Oxfam India showed a decline in discrimination in urban areas due to education and government policies, but a rise in discrimination in rural areas is witnessed. Earning disparities were also reported between self-employed workers from non-SC/ST and SC or ST backgrounds.
Constitutional Safeguards Against Discrimination
The Constitution of India provides several protections against discrimination. Article 14 ensures equal treatment before the law, Article 15 prohibits discrimination, and Article 16 promotes equality of opportunity. Article 17 abolishes Untouchability, and Article 46 protects the educational and economic interests of weaker sections. Additionally, provisions for reservation in legislature, local bodies, and services are provided under Articles 330, 332, and 335.
Government Initiatives Addressing Discrimination
The government has initiated various schemes to counter discrimination. Land reforms were implemented for equitable distribution of land, benefitting the marginalized. The Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order recognized Hindu Dalits, Dalits who had converted to Sikhism, and Buddhism as Scheduled Castes. Other initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), SANKALP Scheme, Stand Up India Scheme, and Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana aimed at skill development, entrepreneurship promotion, and financial support to underserved sectors.
Future Steps
For further progress, effective implementation of laws and policies, awareness-raising, and economic empowerment of marginalized communities are essential. Collaboration and dialogue among civil society organizations, government agencies, and marginalized communities can effectively address caste discrimination issues.
Relevant Questions from Previous UPSC Civil Services Examinations
In the 2016 UPSC Civil Services Examination, a question regarding the ‘Stand Up India Scheme’ was asked, testing knowledge about the scheme’s purpose and financing. Various other questions related to the caste system, Scheduled Tribes, social reformers like Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and contemporary Dalit identity movements have been asked in previous examinations.