In what ways was Omprakash Valmikis experience similar to that of the Ansaris?
Both Omprakash Valmiki and Ansaris were subjected to discrimination. Omprakash was not allowed to sit with other students in the classroom and was made to sweep the school and the playground only because he was a dalit. Similarly, the Ansaris were not given a flat in a locality where lived the people belonging to religion other than theirs. The moment the landlady came to know about their names, she declined to rent the house. In both the cases the dignity of a person is violated.
Mention two different kinds of inequalities that exist in our country. Give examples. [V. Imp.]
What do you understand by the term"all persons are equal before the law"? Why do you think it is important in a democracy?
What was the condition of the African-Americans in the United States of America prior to 1950s? [V. Imp.]
Re-read the box on Article 15 and state two ways in which this Article addresses inequality?
What are the provision made in the constitution for the recognition of equality? [V. Imp.]
What are the two ways in which the government has tried to implement the equality that guaranteed in the constitution?
The Government of India passed the Disabilities Act in 1995. This law states that persons with disabilities have equal rights, and that the government should make possible their full participation in society. The government has to provide free education and integrate children with disabilities into mainstream schools. This law also states that all public places including buildings, school etc., should be accessible and provided with ramps.
Look at the photograph and think about the boy who is being carried down the stairs. Do you think the above law is being implemented in his case? What needs to be done to make the building and accessible for him?
How would his being carried down the stairs affect his dignity as well as his safety?