How can you say that establishment of equality in society is a continuous struggle?
Inspite of several efforts made by the government inequalities still exist in our society. Even today low caste people are being discriminated against and treated unequally. The reason behind it is that people refuse to think of them as equal even though the law requires it. This attitude of the people is so deeply rooted that it can not change all of a sudden. It will take a lot of time. Even though people are aware that discrimination is against the law, they continue to treat others unequally on the basis of caste and religion. People are also discriminated against on the basis of economic status, disability and gender.
Unless people believe that every person deserves to be treated equally and with dignity, the present attitude cannot be rooted out. Changing people's attitude is a very slow process and hence establishment of equality in society is a continuous struggle.
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?