CHAPTER- 1 Equality
NOTES
- This means that all individuals in the country, whether male or female, regardless of their caste, religion, educational, or economic background, will be considered equal.
First– Every individual is equal in the eyes of the law. This means that everyone, from the President of the country to an ordinary citizen, must follow the same laws.
Second– No person can be discriminated against based on their religion, caste, lineage, place of birth, or gender.
Third– Every individual has the right to access public places.
Fourth– Untouchability has been abolished.
3. The Right to Equality is implemented in two ways- 1. Through the law, ensuring equal treatment for all. 2. Through government schemes and programs, providing assistance to underprivileged sections of society.
4. Step Taken by the Government Towards Equality– Midday Meal Scheme Under this program, all children in government primary schools are provided with lunch by the school.
Positive Effects of the Program-
- This program also helps in reducing caste-based prejudices.
- The Midday Meal Program has also helped in alleviating hunger among poor students, who often come to school on an empty stomach and struggle to concentrate on their studies.
Negative Thoughts-
- Even after laws are enacted, people refuse to consider them as equals.
- People are aware that discriminatory behavior is against the law, yet they still treat others unequally based on caste, religion, disability, economic status, and gender.
5. Equality Issues in Other Democracies– Struggles related to equality are also taking place in other countries.
United States of America– African Americans, whose ancestors were brought as slaves from Africa, still experience significant inequality in their lives. In the past, African Americans faced severe discrimination in the U.S., and even the laws did not treat them as equals.
- A massive movement against the inequality faced by African Americans began, known as the Civil Rights Movement.
- The Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibited discrimination based on race, religion, and national origin.
- Some individuals and communities redefine democracy by raising new questions to bring more and more equality.
- Whether people are accepting the idea of equality for all individuals and the importance of upholding their dignity or not.