Volume 4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 International Journal of Academic Research
Special issue on AMBEDKAR AND INDIAN DEMOCRACY
Published by Office Address Sucharitha Publications Dr.T.V.Ramana, (9948440288) Visakhapatnam – 530 017 46-8-10/B,Near Aditya School Andhra Pradesh – India Jagannaickpur, Kakinada- 533002 website :www.ijar.org.in Andhra Pradesh-India e-mail: [email protected]
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Special issue on
AMBEDKAR AND INDIAN DEMOCRACY
Edited by
P. Aruna G.A.K. Nehru K. Radha Pushpavathi
UGC Sponsored Two-day National Seminar on
AMBEDKAR AND INDIAN DEMOCRACY st 30th & 31 March, 2017
University Grants Commission New Delhi in collaboration with Center for Ambedkar Studies, University of Hyderabad &
Andhra University Campus, Tadepalligudem
Organized by The Department of English
S.K.S.D. Mahila Kalasala (UG & PG) (A) Tanuku, W.G. Dt. – 534211, A.P Affiliated to Adikavi Nannaya University, Rajahmundry Re-accredited by NAAC with ‘B’ Grade Website: www.svke.net Estd. 1982
Seminar Organizing Committee Chief Patron Sri Chitturi Subba Rao, Founder, Secretary & Correspondent, S.K.S.D. Group of Colleges
PATRONS Sri K.V. Subba Rao, President, S.V.K. Educational Society Sri Nandigam Sudhakar, Treasurer, S.V.K. Educational Society
Advisors Prof. Rajendra Karmakar, Special Officer, Andhra University Campus, T.P.Gudem Dr. D. Subba Rao, Administrative Officer, S.KS.D. Group of Colleges Dr. J. Chandra Prasad, Director, SD College of IT, Tanuku
Chair Person Convener Dr. P. Aruna, Principal Sri G.A.K. Nehru, Lecturer in English Co-Conveners Dr. B. Naga Padmavathy Dr. K. Radha Pushpavathi Vice-Principal Vice-Principal Members Dr. D.M. Neeraja, Reader in Commerce Smt. G. Kusuma Kumari, Lecturer in Physical Education Smt. K. Vani, Lecturer in commerce Smt. G. Indira Kumari, Lecturer in Commerce Smt. D. Durga Kalyani, Lecturer in English Kum. S. Durga Bhavani, Lecturer in English Dr. G. Amrutavalli Tayaru, Lecturer in Sanskrit Smt. K. Syamala Devi, Lecturer in Hinhi Sri P. Siva Prasad, Lecturer in Telugu Sri K. Rama Krishna, Lecturer in Zoology Smt. U. Lakshmi Sundari Bai, Lecturer in Mathematics Sri K.V. Rama Krishna, Lecturer in Chemistry Smt. K. Padmaja Rani, Lecturer in Physics Sri V. Venkateswara Rao, Lecturer in Statistics Sri N.S.V.N.A. Kumar, Lecturer in Computer Science Smt. G. Aruna Kumari, Lecturer in Economics Sri A. Naganna, Lecturer in History Sri B. Samson, Lecturer in Politics Sri A.V. Satyanarayana, Lecturer in Law
EDITORIAL BOARD OF THE JOURNAL Editor-in-Chief Dr. T. V. Ramana Andhra University Campus, Kakinada - Andhra Pradesh, India, 533 005
ADVISORY COUNCIL Prof. M. SundaraRao, Chairman, Board of Dr.V.Mahipal, Formerely Executive Director Studies, Dept. of Economics, Andhra University, (plg) & Associate Professor, Assosa University Visakhapatnam Ethiopia Prof. R.Sudarshana Rao, Dept. of Economics, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam and member of Dr.K.Victor Babu, Guest Faculty, Department of State Finance Commission, Govt. of Andhra Philosophy, Andhra University – Visakhapatnam; Pradesh Chief Editor of IJMER and Associate Editor of Dr.P.Subba Rao, Director (i/c), Centre for Study IJAR of Social Inclusion and Exclusive Policy, Andhra Dr.J.Chandra Prasad, Director, S.V. Institute of University, Visakhapatnam Technology, Tanuku, West Godavar District, AP
Prof. Y.Somalatha, Special Officer, Andhra Dr.K. Radha Pushpavathi, Dept. of Economics,
University Campus, Kakinada, AP S.K.S.D.Mahila Kakalasala Tanuku, West
Godavari District, AP Prof.B.Kuberudu, Dept. of Management Studies, Andhra University Campus, Kakinada Dr. Zoran Vu, ISI, Rector, St. Gregory Nazianzen Orthodox Institute Universidad Rural de Guatemala, GT, U.S.A
EDITORIAL COUNCIL FROM ABROAD
Dr. Zoran Vu, ISI Rector, St. Gregory Nazianzen Prof. Roger Wiemers, Professor of Education, Orthodox Institute Universidad Rural de Lipscomb University, Nashville, USA Guatemala, GT,U.S.A
Dr.A.Heidari, Faculty of Chemistry, California Dr Leo O.N. Edegoh, Department of Mass South University (CSU)Irvine, California, USA Communication, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli, Anambra State, Nigeria
Prof. Josef HOCI-ITL, Department of Political Dr.V.V. Ratnaji Rao Chowdary, Economy University of Vienna, Vienna & Ex. Dept. of Member, Austrian Parliament, Austria Business & Economics, Wollo University Dessie, Ethiopia
Prof. Alexander Chumakov, Chair of Dr.K.Chaitanya, Philosophy Department Russian Philosophical Department of CHEMISTRY, Society, Russia Nanjing University of Science and Technology, China
Prof. Fidel Gutierrez Vivanco, Founder and Dr.I.Ketutdonder, President Escuela Virtual de Asesoria Filosofica Depasar State Institute of Hindu Dharma, Indonesia
Prof. Igor Kondrshin, Member of the Russian M.Ebrahimi, M.Ebrahimi, Philosophical Society, the Russian Humanist Department of Society and Expert of the UNESCO, Moscow, Industrial Engineering, Amirkabir University of Russia Technology, 424 Hafez Avenue, 15916-34311, Tehran, Iran
EDITORIAL COUNCIL FROM INDIA
Prof. M. SundaraRao, Chairman, Board of Prof. J.V.K.V. Pandit, Dept. of. Political Science Studies, Dept. of Economics, Andhra University, &Public Adnm, Andhra University Campus, Visakhapatnam Kakinada Prof.P.Dakshina Murty, Prof.in Physics, Dr. Kompella Venkata Ramana; Dept. of University College of Engineering, Jawaharlal Computer Science and Systems Engineering, Nehru Technological University, Kakinada Andhra University; India
Dr. T.Ashok , Dept. of English, Andhra University Dr. K. V. Ramana Murty, Dept. of Management Campus, Kakinada, AP Studies, Andhra University Campus, Kakinada Prof. D. Satyanarayana, BVC Institute of
Technology & Science, Amalapuram, AP Dr.P.V.Subba Rao, Dr. C.S.Rao PG Centre, Dept.
of political science, Sri Y.N.College, Narsapur, Dr. B. Naga Padmavathy, Dept. of History, West Godavari District, AP S.K.S.D.Mahila Kakalasala Tanuku, West Godavari District, AP Dr.V.V.S.Rama Krishna, Dept. of Economics,
Andhra University Campus, Kakinada, AP Dr. Sudhansu Ranjan Mohapatra, Centre for Juridical Studies, Dibrugarh University, Dr.D.Thirupathaiah, Dept. of Economics, Dibrugarh, Assam S.K.R.B.R College, Narasaraopet, Guntur, district, A.P Santanu Kumar Das, Department of Business Administration, Kalam Institute of Technology, Dr. E. Ashok Kumar, Department of Education
Berhampur, Odisha North- Eastern Hill University, Shillong
Dr. R. Dhanuja, PSG College of Arts & Science Dr. Vidya. H.N, Department of History, Coimbatore Government Arts College, Hassan, Karnataka Dr. C. Jaya Subba Reddy, Department of Dr. Bipasha Sinha, S. S. Jalan Girls’ College Mathematics, SVU College of Sciences, Tirupati University of Calcutta-Calcutta
Dr.K.John Babu, Department of Journalism & Prof. S. Mahendra Dev, Vice- Chancellor, Indira Mass Comm. Central University of Kashmir, Gandhi Institute of Development Research
Kashmir Mumbai
1. Dr.J.Ratna Prabhakar, Dept. of Commerce, 2. Dr.D.K.Prabhakar, Department of Telugu, Government City College,(aff) Osmania University, Jnanabharathi Campus, Bangalore University, Hyderabad Bangalore Dr. A. Srinivas, Rajiv Ganghi Institute of Law College & Dept. of Humanities, JNTUK Prof. (Dr.) Sohan Raj Tater, Former Vice Chancellor, Singhania University, Rajasthan
Editor-in-Chief, IJAR – March, vol.4, issue 3(5), 2017 Typeset and Printed (Sucharitha publications) in India: IJAR, concentrates on critical and creative research in Multidisciplinary and multiple languages Academic Research. This journal seeks to promote original research and cultivate a fruitful dialogue between old and modern thought. Views expressed in the articles is exclusively of the authors, thus, journal is not responsible of it in any case
Visit: www.ijar.org.in E mail: [email protected] March, 2017
C O N T E N T S
Volume 4 Issue 3(5) March, 2017 Sl. Paper Title Page No. 1 Ambedkar’s Economic System, Development and Planning – A 1 Prospects : M.Bala Swamy 2 Ambedkar’s notion of Social Justice and Equity: V.V.S.Rama 6 Krishna
3 Social Democracy - Need of the Hour: K. Sudha 14 4 Views of Dr.B.R.Ambedkar on Democracy and Its Relevance in 16 Contemporary Indian Scenario - A critical Analysis: T.Y.Nirmala Devi 5 Equality of Status of Women Recognized under Constitution of 22 India: V.Vijaya Lakshmi 6 Dr. B.R.Ambedkar and Women Empowerment in India: 30 B. Jyothi 7 Ambekar Views on Democracy and Human Rights: Kota 35 Pallavi 8 Dr B.R. Ambedkar’s Ideas on Social Justice in Indian Society: 46 M.V. Devanand and G. Indira Kumari 9 Dr. B. R. Ambedkar - The Champion of Women Rights: 49 Ch. Rama Devi 10 Socio-Economic and Inclusive Democracy – The Dream of Dr B 57 R Ambedkar: A.B.Saraswathi, Satyanarayana Kanakala and K Venkatalaxmi
11 Ambedkar and the Constitution of India: Ujjwal Ashutosh 65 and Sushree Sunanda Sahu 12 Integrated tribal development agency on constitution, 76 Autonomous state: Pallala Rajakumar Reddy 13 Indian Constitution and Women Rights: R.J.L.P.Priyanka 79 14 Ambedkar and Social Justice in Contemporary India: 83 K. Gowtam Kumar 15 Some Reflections on Ambedkar and Democracy and on Need to 86 Transform Ourselves: M. R. Raju 16 Dr. Ambedkar’s Thoughts on Democracy: K. Vani and G. 88 Aruna Kumari 17 Women Empowerment in the era of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: 92 N.Bhagya Lakshmi 18 Human Rights and Caste Atrocities Against Dalits: 97 K. Sumitha 19 Electoral Reforms in India : K. Durga Prasanna 100 20 Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and his Contribution to the Indian 110 Constitution : L.V.K.Prasad 21 The Role of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in Women Empowerment: 115 S.M.Maheswari 22 Justice and Equality in Dr.Ambedkar’svision of India: 120 D. Durga Kalyani 23 Human Rights of Dalits: B. Satyanarayana 122 24 Movements and Bahujanisation Process in India: 131 P.Y. Krupavaram
25 Indian Democracy and Political Process: G.N.Subbarao 140
Prof. M Mutyalu Naidu, MBA,Ph.D. Vice Chancellor, Adikavi Nannaya University
MESSAGE
I congratulate the Department of English, S.K.S.D. Mahila Kalasala UG & PG (A) Tanuku, for organizing a National Seminar on “AMBEDKAR AND INDIAN DEMOCRACY” on 30th & 31st March, 2017.
My best wishes to the organizers, participants and faculty Members of the institution. I wish the seminar a grand success
- M Mutyalu Naidu
Sri Chitturi Subba Rao Founder, Secretary & Correspondent, S.K.S.D. Group of Colleges
MESSAGE
I am immensely pleased to note that the Department of English are organizing a two day UGC sponsored National Seminar focusing the theme “AMBEDKAR AND INDIAN DEMOCRACY” on 30th & 31st March, 2017. The present seminar is a timely gesture and provides an academic forum for meaningful discussions and spread. I congratulate the convener of the seminar, faculty and the principal for their academic Endeavour. I wish the seminar a success with a hope that the deliberations and the seminar will definitely enlighten the stake holders.
- Chitturi Subba Rao
Dr.D.Subba Rao, M.Com.,Ph.D Administrative Officer, S.K.S.D. Mahila Kalasala UG & PG (A), Tanuku
MESSAGE
I congratulate the Department of English, S.K.S.D.Mahila Kalasala UG & PG (A) Tanuku, for organizing a National Seminar on “AMBEDKAR AND INDIAN DEMOCRACY” on 30th & 31st March, 2017.
My best wishes to the organizers, participants and faculty Members of the institution. I wish the seminar a grand success.
-D.Subba Rao
International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected]
Ambedkar’s Economic System, Development and Planning – A Prospects
Dr.M.Bala Swamy, HOD of Economics, S.K.B.R.College, Amalapuram.
Abstract: Ambedkar was attributed the key role to industrialization, favoured economic planning, particularly infrastructure and social service sector, progressive labour laws and planning with a focus on labour and downtrodden. In his written book the slate minorities, that calls for ‘State Socialism’ involving rationalization of basic and key industries such as insurance and of agricultural land and its working with collective farms with peasants treated as tenants of the state. And he was criticized the capitalism was mainly drawn from Marx but not the whole of it; although he agreed with the basis of it. And he was observed in1956 on the relevance of Marx, ‘what remains of Karl Marx is a residue of fire, small that still very important. The residue, in his view, consists of four items. Key words: economic issues, Legislative Assembly, harsing, clothing, education, good health
Introduction making and economic planning, particularly as a minister (in charge of Babasaheb Ambedkar began his academic labour, irrigation and power portfolio) career as a professional economist. He during 1942-46. Ambedkar also obtained his Ph.D., in Economics from expressed his vices on several policy Columbia University(USA) during 1913- issues in Bombay Legislative Assembly 16, and D.Sc., also in Economics from and in the parliament as a member of London School of Economics (UK) during these bodies, particularly on the issues 1917-18. Both the Ph.D., and D.Sc., related to water and power development thesis are published in the early 1926’s. and labour. In this paper, I propose to As an academic economist Ambedkar has discuss Ambedkar’s economic thoughts, made significant contributions to the particularly on economic systems, various fields of Economics. In the early economic development, planning, period of his academic career (1915-25) agriculture development and political the focus of his writings was mainly economy of caste system and issues centered on themes like public finance, related to water resources development, monetary and international economics, labour and others. In doing this I shall particularly during the colonial period. follow the writings in sequence of time in In later period the finances shifted the which Ambedkar has written and also other economic issues. Later periods attempt to capture the changes that had economic writings covered a wide range occurred in his economic thinking over a of interrelated issues, varying from period of time. prospective on economic development and planning, economic systems, the political View on economic development: economy of caste system and others. Ambedkars view on the problem Besides academic writings he was also of small holdings, it began with a involved in actual process of policy discussion on small holdings, went on to
www.ijar.org.in 1 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] an economic analysis of agricultural with the formulation and implementation backwardness and ended with its solution of the post war economic plan for India’s in industrial development. The reconstruction and development. He underlying assumption in the academic contributed significantly to the discussion was that the small and formulation of the objectives of the plan, scattered landholdings were economically in general, and the formulation of policy inefficient. But how to consolidate these for labour, irrigation and electric power small, scattered and economically development, in particular, leaving his inefficient holdings and, on the district impact on India’s post-war consolidated, how to maintain the size at economic planning and development. an economically viable? In this The development of connection, the academic economists was infrastructure, such as roads and proposed time-fold solution, namely, the communication and transport services, voluntary exchange of owned land to irrigation and electric power in the reduce the parceling and to increase the development of which Ambedkar had size; and, compulsory consolidation by played a pioneering role, was treated as the Government of farms of the village, prerequisites for industrial development. including restricted sale of right of It was believed that this would bring a occupancy. relatively higher rate of growth in According to Ambedkar, the industrial production and employment problem of small holdings was not and help absorb the surplus labour from fundamental but derived from the parent agriculture. evil of maladjustment in the social Economic planning, labour and economy. The household with a small downtrodden holdings was unable to acquire and use factors of production in the right Ambedkar was personally combination. In his view, the remedy involved in formulation of the objectives was to siphon off the surplus labour to and strategy, and more specifically the non-agricultural production. You short, labour policy and planning of water and in Ambedkar’s view, industrialization of power resources of India’s post-war India was the best remedy for its economic plan. He are particularly of the agricultural problems, as it would reduce view that planned economic development the surplus labour in agriculture. The should not only develop programmes but cumulative effects of industrialization also translate them in terms which the would lead not only to an increase in common man could understand, namely, labour productivity and capital peace, harsing, clothing, education, good investment in agriculture but would also health and above all, the right to work cater to the economic necessity of with dignity. Ambedkar was also in enlarging landholding. favour of improvement in productive View on economics planning: post efficiency. But, unlike Jawaharlal Nehru, he was not merely a growth – maximiser war economic plan. of National Income. Ambedkar’s entry in to the Economic system Central Cabinet as Minister-in-charge of the labour portfolio in 1942 coincided
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Ambedkar was attributed the key sustenance of the caste system and role to industrialization, favoured captured the nature of interaction economic planning, particularly between economic structure involved in infrastructure and social service sector, the caste system and the role of Hindu progressive labour laws and planning social/religious philosophy in mutually with a focus on labour and downtrodden. enforcing each other. He also analyzed In his written book the slate minorities, the economic consequence of the caste that calls for ‘State Socialism’ involving system on economic development and rationalization of basic and key income distribution (or equity). The industries such as insurance and of relevant economic attributes of the caste agricultural land and its working with system, which make it a peculiar system collective farms with peasants treated as of producer’s organization and a scheme tenants of the state. And he was of distribution, are criticized the capitalism was mainly a) Assignment of economic, civil and drawn from Marx but not the whole of it; cultural rights, particularly the although he agreed with the basis of it. property rights for each caste by And he was observed in1956 on the birth and continuance thereof by relevance of Marx, ‘what remains of Karl heredity. Marx is a residue of fire, small that still very important. The residue, in his view, b) Unequal distribution of economic consists of four items. and property rights among the caste groups. That the function of philosophy is to reconstruct the world and not c) Hierarchical arrangement of to waste its time in explaining the occupations in terms of status origin of the world. and dignity – same occupations being treated superior and the That there is a conflict of interest others as inferior with a stigma of between class and class. purity and impurity. That private ownership of d) Provision for a comprehensive property brings powers to one system of social and economic class and sorrow to another ostracisms and penalties to through exploitation. enforce the caste-based economic That it is necessary for the good and social order and of society that sorrow be removed e) Support and justification from by abolition of private property. the Hindu religious philosophy. View on political economy of The foremost principle of caste-based caste system. fixation of occupation (or property rights) Another sphere where Abmedkar and continuance thereof, by heredity and made a significant contribution is the birth implied that every member must economic analysis of the caste system. follow the occupation assigned to the Ambedkar examined in greater detail caste to which he belonged. It left no economic principles underlining the caste scope for change, individual choice and system and the role of social and religious inclination. ideologies in the origin, perpetuation and
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The second principle on which In this context, Ambedkar the caste system is based that observed, that there are many occupations and economic rights are not occupations in India which on account of only pre-determined by birth but their the fact that they are regarded as division (across the castes) is highly degraded by Hindu provoke those who unequal. are engaged in these occupations and stigma casting on them by the Hindu In brief view of Ambedkar’s religion. economic characterization of caste system is based on three interrelated elements, Conclusion namely, fixed and hereditary occupation The brief synthesis of Ambedkar and economic rights by birth, unequal economic ideas, provides insights into his and hierarchical (or graded) division of thoughts are economic development, these economic/property rights across planning, role of the slate, alternative caste groups and provision of strong economic system and political economy of instrument of social and economic the caste system. This also brings out the ostracism to sustain the rigid system with evolution in economic thinking of ideological support from the Hindu Ambedkar since the early 1920’s to the religion. mid 1950’s. The discussion on above Economic and social consequences issues are clearly indicates that although Ambedkar had written at different point Ambedkar argued that the of time in his political career, manner in which the customary rules nevertheless, there is a common approach regarding the occupation, property rights, and thread which runs through his employment, wages, education, dignity of economic writings and thus present on labour etc., are devised under the caste internally coherent economic vision and system, it could not but produce vast perspective. economic inefficiency and income inequalities. References: Ambedkar recognized that the 1. Ambedkar’s (1920),’’M.A. caste systems basic feature of ascribed dissertation on Administration occupations for each caste implies and Finance of East India exclusion of our caste from undertaking Company” Vol.6, pub. Edn.Dept. the occupation of another caste. of Maharashtra (1989). Exclusion and discrimination in 2. Ambedkar(1925),’’Ph.D thesis on occupation, and unemployment of labour, “The Evolution of Provincial is they internal to the system and Finance in British India”, necessary outcome of its economics. And London:King and Sen pub. he observed immobility of labour and capital, under caste-wise division, 3. Ambedkar (1923),”D.Sc., essentially means occupationally dissertation on “ The Problem of segregated, and imperfectly immobile Rupees” London: King and Sen market situations. publication. 4. Ambedkar (1918), “Small Holdings in India and their
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Remedies”, Journal of Indian Economic Society, Vol.I. 5. Ambedkar(1943),“First Session of the Plenary Labour Conference, Dr.Ambedkar on Social Security,” Indian Information, Sept.15, p.105. 6. Ambedkar (1945), “Multipurpose Development of the Damodar Vally, “Aug.23, 1945, Indian Information, Delhi, Oct.10. 7. Ambedkar (1947), “State and Minorities,” Vasant Moon (1979), vol.1 Dept.of Edn., Maharashtra, Mumbai.p.408. 8. Ambedkar (1956) “Buddha and Karl Marx” Vasant Moon (1987), vol.3 Dept., of Edn., Maharashtra, Mumbai.p.441 9. Ibid., p.411 10. Ambedkar(1936), “Annihilation of Caste,” Vasant Moon (1979), Vol.1, Dept.of Edn., Govt.of Maharashtra, Mumbai, p.60. 11. Ibid.,p.61. 12. Sukhadeo Thorat & Aryama(2007)”Ambedkar in Retospect” by Indian Institute of Dalith Studies, ISBN.81-316- 0047-5.
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A Study on Ambedkar’s notion of Social Justice and Equity
Dr. V.V.S.Rama Krishna, Asst. Professor, Dept. of Economics, Andhra University Campus, Kakinada
Abstract : The analysis of Ambedkar’s social and political philosophy is very tough job even though the researcher would like to make an attempt of his notion of social justice as a different perspective. Most of us only knew that Dr.B.R.Ambedkar was an architect of Indian Constitution and he is also a great teacher, educationist, lawyer, economist, anthropologist, sociologist, author, orator, politician, trade union leader, preacher and above all social revolutionary. In India so many social reformers emerged to fight against injustice in favour of dalit communities, however a few leaders successfully communicated their own ideas to societies towards the welfare of depressed society. Particularly, Ambedkar worked for the Dalit rights, women rights, backward castes, minorities and working class people and struggled all his life for the minimum dignity of all human beings irrespective of caste or class. The main objective of this paper is to discuses on Ambedkar’s perspective of Hindu social system and his notion of social justice and equity. Key Words: Discrimination, Hindu Social System, Inequality and Social Justice
1. INTRODUCTION: social reformer had addressed these issues in a different way during the State has a fundamental role to independence movement period and play to construct a just society. India has thereafter Ambedkar's leadership been implementing social justice provided a fresh path for over all programmes through its reservation development of scheduled castes and his policy which is in reality a problematic whole life was a constant struggle against one from its very inception. Since ancient injustice in society. He addressed the times, the Hindu social system based on problem of untouchability and came out caste has proclaimed a social order which with concrete proposals for the removal was the main cause of injustice in Indian of untouchability and the upliftment of society. All human beings are equal by the marginalised and the excluded. birth but few people constructed caste Ambedkar’s contribution is now in a system based on occupations which critical juncture to create the just and contributed to the evil practice of casteless society. He believed that the untouchability. Certain sections of society root of untouchability lies in the caste whom we call dalits were denied access to system and caste in the hands of the the natural resources and denied right to orthodox has been a powerful weapon for livelihood, this practice excluded them persecuting the reformers and for killing from the mainstream political all reforms. He felt that no socio-political participation which further added to reform movement could be successful vulnerability. Later, Ambedkar, the great without the annihilation of caste. He
www.ijar.org.in 6 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] wanted justice for untouchables as well as and women the passion for right the weaker sections of the society by relations. His purpose was practical making provision in this regard in the rather than speculative and his Constitution itself. Ambedkar’s just philosophy of life was essentially a society is based on three fundamental development and evolution under certain principles viz., Liberty, Equality and conditions and events prevailed in Indian Fraternity. But the present scenario society‛ (Lal 1998). shows us a gloomy picture of Ambedkar’s 2 AMBEDKAR’S VIEWS ON SOCIAL idea of dealing with the weaker sections JUSTICE AND EQUITY: in the society. The ideas enshrined in our Constitution are not addressing the issue Dr.Ambedkar’s main object was properly even after the 64 years of to reconstruct the Hindu society into an independence. egalitarian society based on the principle of justice, equality and fraternity. Being He brought dignity to the lives of the Constitutional maker he was the so-called untouchables what other conscious of the prevailing unequal social social and religious reformers tried and order of India and therefore laid down failed to bring for centuries. He was one the foundations of a socio-liberal welfare of the most educated persons of all democratic state that can ensure a just politicians of his time with multiple and equal society for all. Ambedkar was degrees from India and abroad and wrote all sound and fury against social injustice. several books and articles to put forth his His weaponry was legal-political, his theories for the problems facing India at anathema Hindu caste exclusivism and that time. He also proved that intellect is his ambition social democracy. As a social not the property of any particular caste revolutionary he revolted against the or class but given an opportunity the social order based on Varna, caste and most despised on the earth can also Untouchability. The Hindu social system surpass any other castes or classes. His is undemocratic not by accident. It is two well known works - Who Were the designed to be undemocratic. Dr. Shudras? (1947) and The Untouchables Ambedkar was not a mere Depressed (1948), has for the first time analysed in Classes leader but a defender of human detail the ‘Shudras’ and ‘untouchables’ right, of weaker and exploited people. It which created a stir in. Ambedkar was the Colonial British Rule in India advocated human dignity, liberty, quality, that initiated the course of Constitution- and fraternity through the legal making. Keeping equal pace with the provision. Jatava observed that arising aspirations, developed proficiency Ambedkar is the prevailing ethical and and ambitions of the Indians to govern political drawbacks sprang from a total themselves, the British Authority misconception of the meaning of human gradually introduced Constitutional relationship, and the problem of rights Laws. It is interesting to note that human relations was the key to his entire Dr.Ambedkar was the only Indian who thought and action. It was in this was involved in the Constitution-making conviction and with an optimistic faith in and framing activities in each of these human goodness, love and truth, which stages since January, 1919 when he gave he entered upon his sacred mission. The evidence before the Southborough aim of his mission was to arouse in men Reform (Franchise) Committee, claiming
www.ijar.org.in 7 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] political rights for the Depressed Classes stood for inequality and oppression today of India. I am reborn, I have no faith in the philosophy of incarnation; and it is wrong Dr.Ambedkar further stated that and mischievous to say that Buddha was claims of equality of opportunity have no an incarnation of Vishnu. I am no more a meaning in Indian social conditions, devotee of any Hindu god or goddess. I which don’t allow equality to prevail, and will not perform Shrardha. I will strictly effort by untouchables to secure equal follow the eighty-fold path of Buddha. rights are vehemently opposed by the so Buddhism is a true religion and I will called higher castes. Ambedkar insisted lead a life guided by the three principles upon separate political representation of knowledge, right path and compassion through election and to adopt alternative (Larbeer 2003) and also he quoted that franchise system. To liberate the the world owes much to rebels who would Untouchable Indians, (the producer dare to argue in the face of the polite and servile classes of India), Dr.Ambedkar at insist that he is not infallible. I do not the first instance placed a lengthy care for the credit, which every memorandum in the Minorities progressive society must give to its rebels. Committee of The Round Table I shall be satisfied if I make the Hindus Conference. A scheme of political realise that they are the sick men of India safeguards for the protection of the and that their sickness is causing danger Depressed Classes in the further to the health and happiness of other constitution of self-governing India, Indians. Ambedkar took decision for submitted to the Indian Round Table conservation to Buddha because of the Conference. The Depressed Classes must following factors. be made free citizens entitle to all rights of citizenship in common with other The rational consciousness of citizens of the state. All subjects of the assessing things for better life of state in India are equal before the law human beings and possess equal civil rights. After the The freedom of choice in which protracted, a decade long struggle, it was man realise his individual dignity finally decided that representatives of all Political Parties will be elected to The realisation of the life by constitute the Constituent Assembly to transcending the lower plane of finalize the Constitution. human existence 3. AMBEDKAR’S PERSPECTIVE OF The revolt against suppression and HINDU SOCIAL SYSTEM: enslavement of humanity Ambedkar was against the concept The change of traditional pattern of Hindu social system and did not like of society for providing physical Hindu religion. Ambedkar believed that facilities conversion of religion to give social The emancipation of ignored justice in the name Buddha religion and humanity and the revitalisation of he observed that Buddhism is the best overlooked way to be adopted to promote peaceful social livelihood. To quote Ambedkar‚ by The Hindu religion creates caste discarding my ancient religion which system based on occupation. Justice
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Venugopal says that the religion based on Social immobility, Responsible for social system assigned a hierarchical disruptive tendencies and position to each caste giving rise to Excommunication. conflict and disharmony. The caste According to Ambedkar, caste is system with its differential treatment religion and religion is anything but an stood for negation of social justice institution. It may be institutionalised by (Venugopal 2005). Gopal Guru Quotes not the same as the institution in which that Ambedkar’s view of Hindu religion it is embedded. Religion is an influence or is that Hindu law is that law of the force suffused through the life of each established order and was made by the individual mold his character touchables. The untouchables had determining his actions and reactions, his nothing to do except to obey it and likes and dislikes. These likes and respect it. The untouchables have not dislikes, action and reactions are not rights against the touchables. For them institution, which can be lopped off. They there is no equal right, not justice which are forces and influences, which can be is due to them and nothing is allowed to dealt with by controlling them or them. Nothing is due to them except counteraction them. If social forces are to what the touchable are prepared to grant. be prevented from contaminating politics The untouchables must not insist on and perverting it to the aggrandizement rights. They should pray from mercy and of the few and the degradation of the favour and rest content with what is many them it follows that it will contain offered (Guru 2002). This is rightly mechanism, which will bottle the pointed out that Hindu law is against the prejudices and nullity and injustice, equal right among all communities. The which the social forces are likely to cause touchable communities create if they were let loose (Vijayan 2006).The untouchable community and were treated castes were enclosed unites and it is their as slaves. conspiracy with clear conscience that Ambedkar says that caste is an artificial compels the ex-communicated the make chopping off of the population into fixed is merciless and it is in obedience to its and definite units each one prevented force that some unfortunate groups find from fusing into another group though themselves closed out, with the result the custom of endogamy (Larbeer 2003). that new groups by a mechanical law are He quotes Caste is the monster that constantly being converted into castes in crosses your path, you cannot have a wildering multiplicity. The research political reform, and you cannot have feels that the existing Hindu social economic reform, unless you kill this system was against the just social order. monster (Kazeha1988). He believed that Ambedkar argued that the Brahmins the root of untouchability is the caste were dominated Hindu society who was system, the roots of the caste system is said that the fundamental principles of religion attached to Varnashram, the root Brahminism are - of Varnashram is the Brahminical religion, and the root of Brahminical Graded inequality between the religion is authorisation of power (Lal different classes 1998). Ambedkar said that the major Complete disarmament the discriminatory features of casteism are Shudras and the untouchables Hierarchy, Lack of social efficiency,
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Complete prohibitions of the third thing we must do is not to be education of the Shudras and content with mere political democracy. the untouchables We must make out political democracy a social democracy as well. Political Ban on the Shudras and the democracy cannot last unless there lies at untouchables occupying power the base of tit social democracy. What and authority does social democracy mean? It means a Complete subjugation and way of life, which recognises liberty, suppression of women equality and fraternity as the principles of life. These principles of liberty, He suggested that the following equality and fraternity are not to be changes in the Hindu outlook: treated as separated items in a trinity. There should be one and only one They form a union of trinity in the sense standard work of Hindu religion that to divorce one from the other is to acceptable to all Hindus and defeat the very purpose of democracy recognised by all (Larbeer 2003). These principles are fundamental rocks of Just Society Priesthood among Hindu should Order and were origin from France be abolished. revolution. Raphael admits ‚justice and No ceremony should be allowing liberty are the two basic ideas of all to be performed by a priest who political thought. Every society needs does not hold a legally valid same, some sort of concept concerning that structure. Justice is the basic concept of Priests should be servants of the social values; it is what holds a society state and should be subject to together (Raphael1986). His concept of disciplinary action and liberty is a fundamentalism among The number of priests should be political and philosophy thought. legally limited according the According to Ambedkar, liberty requirements of the state (Lal has divided into two categories namely 1998 & Sing 1997). Civil Liberty and Political Liberty. 4. AMBEDKAR’S NOTION OF Ambedkar’s notion of civil liberty deals SOCIAL JUSTICE: with three basic opinions; which are Liberty of movement, Liberty of speech Injustice is everywhere not only and Liberty of action. Civil liberties are in western countries but also in India. At often formally guaranteed in Indian present one of the contemporary issues is constitution but ignored in practice that injustice and caste discrimination. which came from Bill of Rights. Civil Ambedkar did a movement amongst right is often used to refer to one or more marginalised communities. His concept of of these liberties or indirectly to the justice generated from the French obligation of government to protect dalits Revolution of 1789. Ambedkar’s from violations of one or more of their perspective of social justice is based on civil liberties. Hindu Temples are social democracy which consists of three continued to be spaces for oppressing and concepts of justice namely liberty, resistance and remain a major source of equality and fraternity. Ambedkar caste clashes in southern district of Tamil addressed in constituent assembly that
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Nadu. Dalits are at the receiving end in liberty would produce and kill individual issues like enter to temples and rights to initiative. Without fraternity, liberty and participate in festivals and they face stiff equality could not become a natural opposition and attack from caste Hindus course of things. It would require a (The Hindu, June 14, 2009). It highlights constable to enforce them. We must begin that dalit communities do not have by acknowledging the fact that there is accessing civil rights and they are not complete absence of two things in Indian allowed inside temples. Dalit have little society. One of these is equality (Larbeer access to temples, kids made to sit 2003). Political democracy gives equal separately in schools. The National rights for everyone which assures legal Commission for Scheduled Castes in provision to all. Ambedkar believed One Chandigarh received 3-4 complaints Man One Value which means the basic daily. National Crime Record Bureau need of each person are well satisfied 2007 reported that there is an increase of with freedom and dignify. Social and 10.9% in crime against Scheduled Castes economic democracies are the issues of as 27070 cases reported in 2006 have the fiber political democracy. The social increased to 30031 cases in 2007 under and economic problem of our society various crimes. seeks to envisage and whole-heartedly supports the system of fundamental The political liberty consists in rights of man in the constitution of free the rights of the individual to share in the India. According to B.R.Ambedkar, framing of law and in the making and combine individualism and socialism unmaking of governments. He believed through the introduction of state that liberty is accompanied with social socialisms, by means of the law of the and economic equality and there must be constitution. Liberty retains the modified knowledge (education) made available to capitalist system of social economic, while all. These liberties are restricted by old it gives greater concessions to the poor, Hindu social system but these are the the fallen and the weak, under a part of the human liberty to crate just parliamentary form of government social order. (Massey 2005). What does (Jatava 1997). Ambedkar's concept of fraternity mean? Ambedkar gives answer State Socialism is based on the following is that Fraternity means a sense of points. common brotherhood of all Indians, all Indians being one people. It is the State ownership of agricultural principle which gives unity and solidarity and key industries to meet the to social life (Jatava 2006). demands of the poorer strata of He believed that democracy offers every society individual achieve social equality, Maintenance of productive economic and political justice guaranteed resources by the state and in the preamble of the constitution. Liberty, equality and fraternity should be A just distribution of the common the only alternative to abolition caste produce among the different society (Rajasekhriah & Jayaraj 1991). people without any distinction of He argued that liberty cannot be divorced castes or creed (Jadhav 1991). from equality; equality cannot be Ambedkar believed that all man have divorced from fraternity. With equality, value capacities, which can be measured
www.ijar.org.in 11 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] easily by their coreligionists. Everyone 5. CONCLUSION: has some value contribution in the civic Ambedkar’s notion of social order, in which he lives. Therefore, justice is based on equal rights and everyone must have an equal voice or human dignity through legal framework. share in the determination of the law of As the result of his thought, Indian his land. He demands that the protection constitution guarantees equal right to all. of law, equally and ethically, status be He was the first person to demand accorded to every member, without any separate electorates and reservation regard to group moral status. State system in favour of dalits in round table should allow participating in all conference even three round table democratic institution and be given their conferences failed. Ambedkar realised legal rights. Ambedkar believed that the that affirmative action is only way to rights are equal and common to all improvement of dalit communities which humans. He says that we are demanding safeguards through legal institutions. equal rights which are the common Ambedkar did not encourage the possession of the entire humanity but due aspiration of caste system within India to inhibitions created by the shastras we and Caste system generates inhuman have been denied these human rights practice among the communities. (Larbeer 2003). He further says that Ambedkar believed that economically rights are protected not by law but the dalits are very poor which they are lack social and moral conscience of society. If access to political, social and economic social conscience is such that it is power. Ambedkar’s ideas are supported prepared to recognise the rights, which on sustainable development of dalit law chooses to enact, rights will be safe through legal and constitutional and secure. But if the fundamental rights provisions and also by organising them are opposed by the community, no law, for fighting for fundamental rights. no parliament, no judiciary can guarantee These are banned by upper community in them in the real sense of the word. The India and crime increased against them. political equality lies in that the poor masses become educated and can make The execution body will be themselves so conscious of their rights strengthening by the state through social that the governing classes cannot usurp democracy. Moreover, Ambedkar’s socio- their productive labour values. The economic and political notion has economic equality emphasises the quality accepted by everyone to address of opportunity. It is a legitimate demand contemporary socio-political issues. of the present generation worth and Ambedkar did consider dalit works. Ambedkar suggested that the representation into mainstream political state control through the law of arena which generates dalit movement in constitution is work consideration; it can various Indian states for freedom and provide everyone with full equality of justice. He also believed that law is an opportunity as one part of important powerful weapon to fight social justice. The state socialism is a against discrimination. This study worthy proposition, which envisage the observed that Ambedkar’s notion of placing of some economic restraints by social justice could not achieve as a the state upon the owners of the means of proper manner and his concept of justice production. will be propagated by institutions
www.ijar.org.in 12 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] through civil society. Dalit and non-dalit Political Science, Vol. 52, No. 3, July – community shall come forward to September. understand of his idea. Ambedkar Vijayan P.P. (2006), Reservation Policy concerned about overall development of and Judicial Activism, Kalpaz vulnerable section of the Indian society Publication, New Delhi and demolished exerting castes discrimination by enacting constitution. Shyam Lal (1998), Ambedkar and Social Therefore, Ambedkar’s notion of social Justice, in Shymlal & K.S.Sazena(ed), justice is relevant in contemporary Indian Ambedkar and National Building, Rawat society to accomplishing just society Publication, Jaipur. within framework of constitutional and Sing Surendra (1997), Dr.B.R.Ambedkar legal methods. Contribution to Social Justice in REFERENCES: Mohammad Shabbir (ed), B.R.Ambedkar Study in Law and Society, Rawat Gopal Guru (1998), Understanding Publication, Jaipur. Ambedkar's Construction of National Movement”, Economic and Political Weekly, Vol. 33, No. 4, January 24-30, pp.
156-157. Gopal Guru (2002)‚ Ambedkar’s Idea of Social Justice‛ in Ghanshyam Shah (ed), Dalits and the State, Concept Publishing Company, New Delhi. Jadhav Narendra (1991), Neglected Economic Thought of Babasaheb Ambedkar‛, Economic and Political Weekly, Vol. 26, No. 15, April. 13, pp. 980- 982. Jatava D.R., (1997), Social Philosophy of B.R.Ambedkar, Rawat Publication, New Delhi. Kazeha K.S., (1998)‚ B.R.Ambedkar; The Architect of the Constitution‛, in Shymlal & Sazena K.S. (ed), Ambedkar and National Building, Rawat Publication, Jaipur. Mohan Larbeer, P. (2003), Ambedkar on Religion: A Liberative Perspective, ISPCK, New Delhi. Rajasekhriah A.M. & Hemalata Jayaraj (1991), Political Philosophy of Dr.B.R.Ambedkar, The Indian Journal of
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Social Democracy - Need of the Hour
Dr K. Sudha, Assistant Professor, Damodaram Sanjivayya National Law University, Sabbavaram, Visakhpatnam District
Abstract: The present paper explains the need of social democracy. Dr. Ambedkar was not being cynical. Being a person closer to reality, he was simply stating the obvious. It is a raw expression of his fears which are unfolding before us. This statement has still not lost its relevance. Whether we as a country have achieved social and economic democracy after 70 years of Independence behind us, is a much debatable question. A lot of introspection is necessary. Our Constitution has weathered several challenges, political, economic and social. The intensity of some events caused violent jolts in the body polity of India. Civil society should be prepared for this change. Without such a change the State would be pandering to the requirements of a political class which do not require State patronage. Key words: Constitution, Civil society, equality
Introduction political democracy which this Assembly has laboriously built up.” On 25 November 1949 in his last Dr. Ambedkar and Social Democracy speech in the Constituent Assembly Dr BR Ambedkar, Chairman, Constitution By saying this Dr. Ambedkar was not Drafting Committee and an original being cynical. Being a person closer to thinker of our times with a lot reality, he was simply stating the trepidation in his heart had stated obvious. It is a raw expression of his “On the 26th of January 1950, fears which are unfolding before us. This we are going to enter into a life of statement has still not lost its relevance. contradictions. In politics we will have Whether we as a country have achieved equality and in social and economic life social and economic democracy after 70 we will have inequality. In politics we will years of Independence behind us, is a be recognizing the principle of one man much debatable question. A lot of one vote and one vote one value. In our introspection is necessary. Our social and economic life, we shall, by Constitution has weathered several reason of our social and economic challenges, political, economic and social. structure, continue to deny the principle The intensity of some events caused of one man one value. How long shall we violent jolts in the body polity of India. continue to live this life of contradictions? The downtrodden of this country had to How long shall we continue to deny wake up to a rude shock when equality in our social and economic life? Kilvenmani, Karamchedu, Chunduru, If we continue to deny it for long, we will Khairlanji, Unaand other massacres took do so only by putting our political place throughout the length and breadth democracy in peril. We must remove this of the country. Young adults who want contradiction at the earliest possible to cross the frontiers of caste are lynched moment or else those who suffer from to death by the vanniyars of Tamilnadu inequality will blow up the structure of and jats of Haryana. Khappanchayats
www.ijar.org.in 14 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] still take place while this country is Conclusion marching towards modernity or People through such reactions are simply something beyond it. When a girl trying to understand the symptoms but claiming her family’s title over a piece of are failing to grasp the underlying land in Khairlanji and when a dalitboy causative factors. This failure to wants to marry a vanniyar girl of his understand stems from deep seated choice in Dharmapuri die, they do not die prejudices prevailing in our society which with dignity. Dignity is something which we are not prepared to admit. This is is elusive in their lives and in their what Dr. Ambedkar had tried to address deaths. These are the fears of through his writings and speeches. DrAmbedkar come true. We achieved Though we could achieve ‘one man one political democracy but failed to attain vote’ in principle we failed to achieve ‘one social democracy. This contradiction is man one value’, the core essence of our leading to turbulence in the society. constitutional morality. Achieving this People are drawing different noble objective is possible only if people conclusions from these incidents. Some are prepared to look into the face of the tend to simply brush them under the sinister looking features of our social carpet. They consider themselves too lives, accept the truth and try to figure faint hearted to allow these incidents to out what has to be done. Civil society prick their conscience. Some feel that by should be prepared for this change. raising such issues or allegedly ‘blowing Without such a change the State would them beyond proportions’ we are actually be pandering to the requirements of a causing harm to the downtrodden. The political class which do not require State toiling masses ought not to be divided on patronage. the basis of caste, creed or religion. This We lack political imagination in would amount to divisive politics. Such addressing these issues. It is time that divisions would further strengthen the we sit up and reformulate are ideas and hands of the oppressive sections of the come up with convincing arguments to society. Some try to rationalize it by make this country a better place to live saying that these are ordinary village in. faction fights which are unnecessarily portrayed as atrocities against the dalits and that they are being blown out of proportion. They are in a denial mode to accept things. Some do not stop there. They give it a spin of grave and sudden provocation by the victims of such crimes and start empathizing with the perpetrators of such crimes. A dalit youth trying to sexually abuse a savarna woman is the regular story. The story is on such predictable lines.The most disturbing thing about these stories of massacres is the frightening similarity.
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Views of Dr.B.R.Ambedkar on Democracy and Its Relevance in Contemporary Indian Scenario -A critical Analysis
Ms.T.Y.Nirmala Devi, Faculty in Political Science, DamodaramSanjivayya National Law University, Visakhapatnam Abstract: Democracy is not merely a form of government. It is primarily a mode of associated living, of conjoint communicated experience. It is essentially an attitude of respect and reverence towards the fellow men.Indians today are governed by two different ideologies. Their political ideal set in the preamble of the Constitution affirms a life of liberty, equality and fraternity. Their social ideal embodied in their religion denies them. Political democracy cannot last unless there lies at the base of it social democracy. What does social democracy mean? It means a way of life which recognizes liberty, equality and fraternity as the principles of life. From layman’s perspective is nothing but freedom, liberty. However, to understand the true meaning and importance of the concept of Democracy through the lenses of legal luminaries like Dr. B. R. Ambedkar. This research article is an attempt to analyze the views of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar on Democracy and to study its reflection in Indian Constitution and its relevance in contemporary Indian scenario.
Key words: Political democracy, liberty, equality, fraternity
“Democracy is not a form of government, but a form of social organization.”- Dr.B.R.Ambedkar
Introduction material you must put it to the severest test. DR B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, had famously said Democracy and Its Relevance in that “democracy in India is only top Contemporary Indian Scenario dressing on an Indian soil, which is Dr. Ambedkar was the champion of essentially undemocratic”. Abraham human rights and democratic form of Lincoln says: “As I would not be a slave, so I would not be a master. This expresses government. The idea of democracy he put forth had much broader perspective my idea of democracy.” A relentless than the generally perceived idea of champion of human rights and staunch political liberty,equality and fraternity. believer in democracy, Dr. Ambedkar Dr. Ambedkar emphasized the social and says: “Democracy is not a form of government, but a form of social economic dimensions of democracy and forcefully argued that political democracy organization.” A form and a method of cannot succeed where there is no social Government whereby revolutionary and economic democracy.Recalling the changes in the social life are brought definition of democracy given by his about without bloodshed. That is the real predecessors or contemporaries he could test. It is perhaps the severest test. But not be satisfied with these conceptions of when you are judging the quality of the
www.ijar.org.in 16 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] democracy. In particular he recalls effective in an undemocratic atmosphere. Walter Bagehot when he defines Political democracy means the principle democracy as a 'Government by of 'one man one vote' which indicates discussion' as well as propounded by political equality. But if oppression and Abraham Lincoln as 'a Government of the injustice exist, the spirit of political people, by the people and for the people.' democracy would be missing. Democratic Deviating from these oft-repeated government, therefore, should be an notions, however, Ambedkar defines extension of a democratic society. democracy as “a form and method of In the Indian society, for instance, so long government, whereby, revolutionary as caste barriers and caste-based changes in the economic and social life of inequalities exist, real democracy cannot the people are brought about without operate. In this sense, democracy means bloodshed”. Dr. Ambedkar further added a spirit of fraternity and equality and not in effort of explaining democracy that merely a political arrangement. Success democracy could not be equated either of democracy in India can be ensured with Republic or Parliamentary only by establishing a truly democratic Government. The roots of democracy lay society. Along with the social foundations not in the form of Government, of democracy, Ambedkar takes into parliamentary or otherwise. According to consideration the economic aspects also. him, “Democracy is a mode of associated It is true that he was greatly influenced living. The roots of Democracy are to be by liberal thought. Still, he appreciated searched in the social relationship, in the limitations of liberalism. terms of associated life between the Parliamentary democracy, in which he people who form the society.” had great faith, was also critically Ambedkar viewed democracy as an examined by him. He argued that instrument of bringing about change parliamentary democracy was based on peacefully. Democracy does not merely liberalism. It ignored economic mean rule by the majority or government inequalities and never concentrated upon by the representatives of the people. This the problems of the downtrodden. is a formalistic and limited notion of Besides, the general tendency of the democracy. We would understand the western type of parliamentary meaning ofDemocracy in a better fashion democracies has been to ignore the issues if we view it as a way of realizing drastic of social and economicequality. In other changes in the social and economic words, parliamentary democracy spheres of society. Ambedkar's idea of emphasized only liberty whereas true democracy is much more than just a democracy implies both liberty and scheme ofgovernment. He emphasizes the equality. This analysis becomes very need for bringing about an all-round important in the Indian context. Indian democracy. A scheme of government does society was demanding freedom from the not exist in vacuum; it operates within British. But Ambedkar was afraid that the society. Its usefulness depends upon freedom of the nation would not ensure its relationship with the other spheres of real freedom for all the people. Social and society. Elections, parties and economic inequalities have dehumanized parliaments are, after all, formal the Indian society. Establishing institutions of democracy. They cannot be democracy in such a society would be
www.ijar.org.in 17 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] nothing short of a revolution. This would one man one value on which democracy be a revolution in the social structure and rests can be protected and preserved by attitudes of the people. In the place of securing liberty of individuals from hereditary inequality, the principles of invasion by other individuals which is the brotherhood and equality must be object of enacting fundamental Rights. established. Therefore, Ambedkar The connection between individual supported the idea of all-round liberty and shape and form of the democracy. economic structure of society may not be apart to everyone. None the less the There should be a Constitutional law connection between the two is real. which would make Government Political Democracy, according to him, responsible to the people and to prevent rests on the four premises which may be the tyranny of the people by the set out in the following terms: Government. Consequently, almost all Laws of Constitution which relate to 1. The individual is an end itself. countries which are called Democratic 2. That the individual has certain stop with Adult Suffrage and inalienable rights which must be Fundamental Right. They have never guaranteed to him by the constitution. advanced to the conception that the Constitutional Law of Democracy must 3. That the individual shall not be go beyond Adult Suffrage and required to relinquish any of his Fundamental Right. He was of the view constitutional rights as a condition that it was equally essential that the precedent to the receipt of a privilege. constitution should also prescribe the 4. That the state shall not delegate shape and form of the economic structure powers to private persons to govern of society, if democracy is to live up to its others. principle of one man, one value. Dr. Ambedkar’s vision of democracy and As per Ambedkar views the present socialism has failed to get materialized. situation in India cannot be said Political democracy has survived, but democratic neither in terms ofpolitical, economic democracy remains a distant economic or social. There are great goal, and therefore, democracy remains disparities both between the classes, incomplete and lopsided. In fact, even castes andindividuals. India's economic political democracy is not in very good arena is much more discriminated than health. Further, Indian democracy is expected. The economic structureadopted confronting new challenges, including the has been responsible to have widened the Hindutva movement, growing economic gap between the haves and have-nots. inequality, the rise of militarism, and the ThereforeDemocracy in India cannot be brazen misuse of power by political accepted functioning with merits. parties (including those purporting to Dr. Ambedkar warned the countries like represent the underprivileged). A India not to merely make copies of the startling variety of social movements copies of the Constitutions of other have flourished in India, and creative counties and proclaimed to make the initiatives keep expanding the boundaries most of experience of their predecessors. of political democracy year after year. Dr.Ambedkar stated that the principle of Many new tools of democratic practice
www.ijar.org.in 18 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] have emerged, unforeseen by Dr. bargaining power, social ethics can also Ambedkar: the right to information, the come into play in a democracy where panchayati raj amendments, modern there is room for what Dr. Ambedkar communication technology, transnational called “morality”. cooperation, to name a few. The quality None of this detracts from the of Indian democracy is also gradually importance of striving for economic enhanced by a better representation of democracy. But the fact that this goal has women in politics, wider opportunities for proved more elusive than Dr. Ambedkar people’s involvement in local governance, anticipated should not prevent us from and the spread of education among pursuing other “revolutionary changes in disadvantaged sections of the society. The the economic and social life of the most powerful and promising trend is the people”. The abolition of caste growing participation of the inequalities, for instance, is a perfectly underprivileged in democratic processes. reasonable goal of democratic practice Dr. Ambedkar had a visionary conception today. So are gender equality, peace in of democracy, which needs to be Kashmir, the eradication of corruption, “rediscovered” today. But going beyond universal education, world disarmament, that, we must also enlarge this vision in and the end of hunger, among other the light of recent developments. While revolutionary changes that we might Dr. Ambedkar was far ahead of his time aspire to. It is also worth noting that in stressing the link between political and economic democracy itself may not be as economic democracy, perhaps he failed to distant as we think. Indeed, it is an anticipate the full possibilities of political interesting paradox of contemporary democracy itself. He thought that in the politics that even as economic power has absence of economic democracy, ordinary become more concentrated, it also looks people would be powerless. Also, he more fragile. That is one lesson from the thought of political democracy mainly in recent collapse of Enron, the defeat of the terms of electoral and parliamentary Multilateral Agreement on Investment, processes. In both respects, his the WTO Debacle, and the growing assessment was highly relevant at that sheepishness of the Bretton Woods time. Today, however, we are constantly institutions. What looks “Politically discovering new forms of democratic infeasible” at one point of time often practice, in which people are often able to turns out to be within reach much sooner participate even if economic democracy is than expected. In practical terms, the nowhere near being realized. This ability best course of action may be to revive the to participate arises from the fact that Directive Principles of the Constitution economic privilege is not the only basis of and to reassert that these principles are advantage in democratic politics. Money “fundamental in the governance of the power certainly helps, but this advantage country” (Article 37). Indeed, in spite of is not always decisive. Much depends also much official hostility to these principles on organisational activism, the weight of today, there are unprecedented numbers, the strength of arguments, the opportunities for asserting the economic force of public opinion, the use of and social rights discussed in the communication skills, and other sources constitution - the right to education, the of bargaining power. Aside from right to information, the right to food,
www.ijar.org.in 19 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] the right to work, and the right to conditions of democracy. They have to equality, among others. Dr. Ambedkar’s appreciate the opportunities for their advice to “educate, organize and agitate” desired roles like participation, making is more relevant than ever. the system accountable, fulfilling obligations, and playing proactive roles to Conclusion actualize the goals of democracy. It is thus clear that democracy in India References : faces certain serious challenges. These are causes of serious concern to all. In 1. Kshirsagar Ramchandra Kamaji, fact, the leadership of the freedom Political thought of Dr. Babasaheb movement and especially the framers of Ambedkar, Intellectual publishing the Indian Constitution themselves house, New Delhi, 1992. werevery much aware of these issues. 2. Lewis, I.R., Democracy the theory They made a number of constitutional and practice, Allman and Sons, provisions to address the same. Since London, 1966. independence governments have taken various measures to respond to many of 3. Shashi S.S. (Dr.) (Editor), Ambedkar these challenges. There have been and social justice, volume I, Director, significant improvements in some of Publicationsdivision, Ministry of these. Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, New However, lots still have to be done. For India,1992. that, efforts have been going on. There is need for collaboration among 4. Ambedkar B.R. (1989), Dr. governmental agencies, political parties, BabasahebAmbedkar Writings and civil society and citizens in general. speeches Vol. 1, Government Certain significant corrective measures ofMaharashtra Publication, that have been adopted and can be Mumbai. initiated. The corrective measures that 5. Bernard S. Cayme (1988), Lexicon are needed to meet the challenges to Encyclopedia, Lexicon Publication Indian democracy are focused around the Inc. New York, N.Y. issues and concerns like universal literacy i.e. education for all, poverty 6. Das Bhagwan (1969), Thus Spoke alleviation, elimination of gender AmbedkarVol.II, Buddhist discrimination, removal of regional Publishing House Jalandhar, imbalances, administrative and judicial Punjab. reforms and sustained economic, social 7. Jatava D.R. (2001), Political and environmental development. Philosophy of Dr. Ambedkar, However, Indian democracy can be National Publishing House, Jaipur successful and vibrant only when its and NewDelhi citizens imbibe and reflect in their 8. Keer Dhananjay (1963), Life and behavior the basic democratic values like Mission of Dr. Ambedkar, equality, freedom, social justice, Budhbhoomi Prakashan Nagpur. accountability and respect for all. Their mindset, thinking and behavior are expected to be in tune with the essential
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9. Patrika, the Hindi daily newspaper dated 5-8-2011, published from Indore M.P. India.
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Equality of Status of Women Recognized under Constitution of India:
V.Vijaya Lakshmi, Research Assistanat, Damodaram Sanjivayya National Law University, Visakhapatnam.
Abstract : Women deserves to be conferred supreme status for the reason, she is not only creature of the world but also instrumental for growth and development of the family including the progress of her husband in particular. The role of a woman as a model and ideal housewife contributes a lot for building a progressive nation tomorrow. It is to be noted that, only woman as a housewife attends all her duties regularly and punctually throughout the year for 365 days without aspiring for a single day as a holiday. The problem is, needs to be examined in the context of rights for establishment of a just and equitable social order, where nobody can be treated or exploited by another as unequal. No law, custom, tradition, culture or religious consideration should be invoked to excuse discrimination against women.
Introduction I measure the progress of community by the degree of progress of women have achieved. ….Dr.B.R.Ambedkar.
Ambedkar’s view on women’s oppression, political set up, which still keeps social democracy, caste and Hindu social conservatives and reactionary values in order and philosophy significant modern many respects, particularly on gender Indian feminist thinking although relations. The writing and speeches of Ambedkar proved himself to be a prolific show what values India should develop writer, social activist and critic and and how they would modernize its social strode like a colossus in the Indian socio and political institutions. Ambedkar saw political scene unto his death, he woman as the victims of the oppressive, thoughts never received adequate caste based and rigid hierarchical social attention in the generality of Indian system. society just because born on a The status of women in almost all untouchable. However, the contemporary parts of the world is discriminatory and social realities, warrant close prejudicial because of male dominated examination of the wide range of his society’s practical inequality between topics, the width of his vision, the depth men and women everywhere. Women in of his analysis, and the rationality of his fact, not only in a primitive society, but outlook and their essential humanity of also in this modern global world in his suggestions for practical action. certain places, irrespective of rural or Hence, for Indian women’s movement urban, rich or poor has been treated as a Ambedkar provides a powerful source of tool in kitchen room and toy in the hands inspiration to formulate a feminist of her husband and collaterals. Since the political agenda which simultaneously time immemorial, women as a whole in address the issues of class, caste and this universe were placed inferior to men gender in the contemporary socio – as the women could not act www.ijar.org.in 22 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] independently and had to rely on a man better half, making them no more than a for doing anything. In other words, she better half. Hinduism defines women to had to take the consent of her father or be a man’s half-batsman. It is a clearly husband for taking any decision. It is an and symbolized through “shiv- shakti” admitted fact that ours is a civilized that a man is incomplete without a society, and in our society, human women. Holy books have preached relationships play a very important part. equality of both sexes. But even today’s These relationships necessarily involve ultra-modern India the situation remains mutual trust, regard for each other, the same as it was centuries ago. Women because without them, human relations have unique position in a every society cannot come into existence, nor they can whether developed, developing or under be perpetuated with benefit to both the developed. In spite of her contribution in parties. The global problem of the the life individuals human begin; she still present day is, gender injustice or gender belongs a class or group of society which inequality. There has been discrimination is in disadvantaged position on account between men and women, male several social barriers and impediments. domination and suppression of women The face and style of women’s since pre-historical times. Women, who exploitation has changed from visible to constitute half of the world’s population, invisible. However, the cruelty and extent work 2/3rd of the world’s working hours is unchanged. The status of women in earn just 1/10th of the world’s property ancient period was considered more and remain victims of inequality and powerful than man and treated as injustice. Consequent to these goddess of “Adi Shakti”. The birth of a discriminatory practices, social, girl child in the ancient society was economic and cultural resulting in heralded as the arrival of Goddesses cumulative inequalities in both the Lakshmi. Ancient texts of all religions developed and developing countries, the prescribe what should be the qualities of ideas and goals enshrined in various women. Any women who do not possess social legislations and international those qualities are not “good” and social conventions invoking/envisaging women’s sanctions may be invoked against her. equality/welfare remain unfructified. As Manu states that where woman are human development moves centre stage worshipped, God dwells there. In order to in the global development, debate, gender be worshipped, she must possess worship- equality is emerging as a major global able qualities but these qualities are challenge. understood and imposed from the point of view of the society and not the woman Status of Women in Ancient Period: herself. The image building begins even Life begins from a lady’s womb. before birth. She should be virtuous as The sole privilege and power to create – defined by the society; she should be srijan -is what makes her lord of this tolerant, renunciate and sacrifice to the world in the true sense. She is the force extent the society demands of her. In behind every man in one form or the other words, the woman’s individuality other –mother, wife, sister, and daughter and personality cannot blossom on its and so on. But all these sound mere own naturally; she is cast into a mould--- rhetoric and speechifying when the an image approved by the society. This majority suppress and downgrades its image forming process has led to socio- www.ijar.org.in 23 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] economic deprivation and oppression. version attests that the social reformers According to Rig Veda woman is the of the 19th century sought legal changes queen of house. SatpathaBrahmana says from British colonial administration with that the wife is her co-equal with each a view to improving the status and other. It was believed that she is her conditions of women. The woman husband’s ardhagini. This epoch still question was definitely as part of a retained a certain liberty of expression broader agenda of social and political for women’s religious aspirations. Women reform, need and expediency of the day. where glorified as “the lamp of home” For the colonial regime it was part of a and it is laid down that a home is void ‘civilizing mission’ to liberate Indian without a women to run it. It is also said women from the indigenous ‘barbaric and that a virtuous wife gives a good status to degenerate’ tradition. In that Century, her house. especially after the emergence of Raja Ram Mohan Ray on the socio-political The status of woman decreased scenario with during the medieval period. Women SwamyDayanandaSaraswathi, Justice completely lost their glory. During this Ranade, Sister Nibedita, Gopal Krishna period there were main customs such as Gokhale, Swamy Vivekananda, Annie sati, ban on widow remarriage, child Beasant, Pandita Rama Bai, Mahatma marriage she had no choice selection of Gandhi, Kasturba, Mira Ben with long life partner. In purely Indian context, struggles, attention of Government could Indian women have come a long way be drawn to the said plight and from the Vedic ages. There have been exploitations of women and new changes in every aspect of her life, yet she legislations were enacted to save women has miles to go before she rests. With from the victimization of crimes. The invasions of India by Alexander and the centuries have been passed but women’s Huns, the position of women was further conditions are not changed yet. Time is a degraded. Their education and training witness of all this. Helpless women are came to a sudden halt. For reasons of suffering in the form of discrimination, security, movement outside was exploitations, degradation, aggression restricted which in turn denied and humiliation. opportunities in community affairs. With invading armies roaming the countryside, International and Constitutional women were put behind the veil. Protection for Women: Struggle for Women’s Freedom in The intensification of women’s 18th& 19th Centuries: issues and rights movement all over the world is reflected in the form of various The Indian setting in the late 18th Conventions passed by the United and 19th century was incontrovertibly Nations viz. Convention on the Political much more complex than this due to its Rights of Women, 1953., Convention on colonial antecedents. To begin with, it the Nationality of Married Women, 1957., must be mentioned that even a partial Declaration on Elimination of authentic account of the initiatives and Discrimination Against Women, 1967., role of women activists or reformers on Convention on the Elimination of All this issue is yet to be documented as far Forms of Discrimination Against Women, as India is concerned. A fragmented 1979, Declaration on the Elimination of www.ijar.org.in 24 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected]
Violence against Women, 1993, Vienna of sensitivity of the society to deal with Conference, Beijing Conference etc. such issues. In particular, provisions in the criminal law, in favor of women, or in The Constitution insists on the procedural law discriminating in equality of status and it negates gender favor of women, have been upheld. bias.The framers of the Indian Constitution were well aware of the Crimes against Women: inequality between men and women A woman plays different of roles (gender discrimination) and incorporated during her life time. At the work place certain specific provisions for upliftment she is a labour, farm worker, employee, of the status of women i.e, Article 14, sometimes employer, scientist, educator, 15(3), 16, 21, 21-A, 23, 24, 25, 39, 39-A, academician and professional. She is also 42, 44, 51-A (e), 243-D and 243-T. activist, policy maker and law maker at Though the Indian Constitution provides the social and community front. Today’s equality of status and of opportunity to women are playing multi-tasking roles. A women, discrimination is persisting in working women nevertheless has to be all one form or the other. The reason is the rounder she has to constantly keep in women’s physical structure and the mind home, fulfill its requirements first performance of material functions place before she is leaves her house. In India her at a disadvantage in the struggle for nearly half of the population comprise of subsistence and her physical well women. Yet, they are dominated, becomes an object of public interest and suppressed, harassed, ill-treated, care in order to preserve the strength and subjected to mental and physical violence vigor of the race. Discrimination against and sometimes even denied of their basic women continues to exist even today as it human rights. They are the ones who are is so deep-rooted in the traditions of made to sacrifice and suffer without any Indian society. The root cause for the right of complaining for it. Females are discrimination of women is that most brought up in that manner. There are women are ignorant of their rights and different kinds of violence or crimes the position of equality assured to them committed by males in the male under the Indian Constitution and legal dominated society. Violence against system. Enlightened women should fight women is rampant in all corners of the to bring awakening in other women world. Such violence is a human rights regarding their rights by bringing violation that manifests itself in a awareness about their status in society as number of ways including violence they constitute half of the Indian against women in custody, Acid attack, population.In tune with various Bride burning, Physical, Emotional, provisions of the Constitution, the State Economic and Psychological abuse, has enacted many women-specific and Domestic Violence, Female genital women-related legislations to protect mutilation, Human trafficking, Dowry women against social discrimination, death, Honour killing, Human rights violence and atrocities and also to violations based on actual or Perceived prevent social evils like child marriages, Sexual Identity, Sexual Assault and dowry, rape, practice of Sati, etc. ---the harassment at work places, Rape, problem , however, is in non- Kidnapping and Abduction, Molestation, implementation of such laws and the lack Gender Based Asylum, Importation of www.ijar.org.in 25 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] girls, etc are rampant not only in India the index of these crimes touching but at global level. A central theme the dizzying heights. The incidence of these women’s movement all over the world crimes is very high, it knows no barriers has been violence against women both in of caste, class, religion or socio-economic their homes and outside. This is directly strata. Earlier, it was thought to be the linked to their unequal position in a preserve of the uneducated people of patriarchal society cutting across both lower castes but now-a days women from class and community. The first categories all social strata and professions are of violence focused on were rape and victims of these crimes. Professionals like murder of young brides for dowry. Rape doctors and judges, executives and is a crime, not only against the person of lawyers etc. Most of the women are still a woman; it is a crime against the entire treated as second class citizens. The society.Dowry in the sense of the bride’s media exposure and the laws have very price or the bridegroom’s price, spread little impact; they are themselves like a contagious disease and ultimately contradictory and often betray the pro- became regular practice. It was released male bias. Crimes against women are as that there were other more brutal old as civilization and equally ancient are expressions of the widespread the efforts to combat and arrest them. phenomenon of domestic violence which These efforts have not succeeded and included wife beating, cruelty, torture crimes are still maintaining their upward and humiliation. This realization made trend. There are records of women being women’s groups demanded that wife raped, abducted, beaten and subjected to abuse be treated as an offence too. is then humiliating treatment. Women have been that the real picture emerges and we subjected to socio-economic and cultural realize that the whole bulk of this deprivations for such a long time that protective legislation is a very modest there is a general indifference and lack of attempt to combat the deep-rooted and awareness for crimes against them. all pervasive evil of horrendous crimes Women are reared in an atmosphere that are committed against women every which slowly but positively helps in the day. The list of crimes that are development of a feeling of inferiority, committed against women seems they become used to the institutional amaranthine, varying from simple legitimating of their low status and find harassment, physical and mental torture nothing wrong in some of the crimes that to even denying them the very right to are committed against them. Most of the exist. Scientific techniques are misused to protective laws fail because of defective kill girls even before they are born or else enforcement; proper implementation of crude methods like feeding them the juice these laws will go a long way in curbing of berries are used to sniff out life soon crimes against women. after they are born. The places where Patriarchal system impact on these crimes are committed and the Women: persons by whom they are committed are also endless. These are crimes that are Indian society is male dominated. committed within the four walls of the Man occupies a superior status and the house, those that are committed at public women are merely his appendages. A places right in the glare of the public. In women is never an entity in her own spite of the plethora of protective laws right, she is “first the daughter, next the www.ijar.org.in 26 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] wife, and last the mother of a man”. Men unabated whether it is in the field of are consciously taught to be aggressive survival, health, education, employment and tough while women are conditioned or in other broader perspectives of social to be submissive and docile. In Indian life. All these are culturally determined sub-continent there have been infinite as culture demands that a boy is more variations on the status of women valued than a girl. This psychology is diverging to cultural malice’s, family very much prevalent even in times of structure, class, caste property rights and natural calamity and / or disaster. Even if morals. Patriarchy is a popular system all the infant mortality rate in India today is over the world. In literal sense it is the not alarming, the survival of the girl- dominance of the father, which in turn child still remains very precarious. Owing means domination of the male gender. to the deliberate neglect of the girl in Such domination was not on women. It respect of food, nutrition and education, included the vulnerable comprising of her inability becomes very much children, slaves, etc. Therefore the constrained. Growing up in such an patriarch could dominate over other men atmosphere of discrimination the as well if they were in a lesser status and personality of a female child often is a vulnerable situation. At the core of affected and being subjected to further patriarchy lies a relative power equation. discrimination when she goes out and Patriarchy, therefore, is not class or caste faces the outside world. Her personality specific. In the male dominated society, a often becomes totally impaired and she female, right from her birth is treated starts believing that being a female she is unequally. Amongst the large sections of inferior to a male and accepts the act of the Indian population and especially discrimination as quite normal and weaker sections of the society, a female obvious. child is unwelcome and is treated as a But that is not the only reason liability. Killing of female child and even why a female right from her birth and female fetus is still prevalent in India. childhood has to suffer discrimination. One of the reasons why a female child is The other most important reason for unwelcome is, the parents dread the cost which a female has to suffer such of marrying a daughter as discrimination not only in the Indian notwithstanding enactment prohibiting society but all over the world including in the system of dowry in India, dowry is the so-called developed countries is a still prevalent in India either directly or preconceived notion that a female is indirectly not only amongst the poor, but inferior to a male both physically and even amongst the middle classes and rich intellectually although there is no families also. The girl child, a perpetual medical and scientific basis of such a burden to the family, particularly in the notion. At home a female child is not rural areas, has to work from the morn to treated equally to male child and is night on and do every duty possible. The discriminated against in the matter of routine of work of a girl of poor rural food, clothing, education and other families and of lower-middle class urban matters. In this realm of the patriarchal families is simply staggering. Even a not domination, women are treated as too exhaustive list of their work is sure to chattels and upon marriage dominion take one out of the one’s breath. But, over them was transferred from the unfortunately, discrimination goes on www.ijar.org.in 27 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] father to the husband within the confines needs and problems of such women. of perpetual tutelage.This discrimination There will be improved implementation very often arises from the traditional of programmes which are already women mind-set that the real life for a female oriented with special targets for women. starts after her marriage and it is the There is a need for targeted efforts to duty of the parents to rear up the ensure that rights of women in difficult daughter till she is given in marriage. circumstances who include destitute Because of such deep-rooted pre- women, women in conflict situations, conceived notion a female not only suffer women affected by natural calamities, discrimination at her parental home, but women in less developed regions, the also suffers the same outside the home disabled, widows, elderly women, single when she goes out and faces the outside women in difficult circumstances, world in various spheres of life, including migrants, women heading households, the educational institution. Later on, those displaced from employment, women even in the work place, she suffers such who are victims of marital violence, discrimination. She is not only subjected deserted women and prostitutes, etc. For to sexual abuse but she may also be the emancipation for women in every subjected to ridicule, apathy, and field, economic independence is a sensitivity. The unkindest cut, because of paramount importance. Along with such discrimination by the society, a economic independence, equal emphasis woman suffers, if she is a victim of sexual must also to be laid on the total harassment and rape. She, although is development of women---creating the victim and not the accused, she awareness among them about their rights suffers further humiliation from the and responsibilities---the recognition of society and in fact she is ostracized by the their vital role and work they do at home. society. Women’s health is affected by It is unfortunate but true that many factors, including biological discrimination against the female starts differences and social conditions, when she is still in the womb, through discrimination and lack of access to and female feticide. Apart from feticide, there inadequate health care and other are many other issues and one of them services. Lack of food, deficient housing which is a cause for anxiety, is trafficking and inadequate access to safe drinking of women and girls. It is a gross violation water pose a threat to rural and other of their human rights. Women are being women’s health. Morbidity and mortality treated as chattels and commodities. rates of women, due to inadequate to Crimes in the form of trafficking of the reproduction health, are still high. girl child, prostitution, domestic violence and incest are on the increase. Take Conclusion: integrated measures to prevent and Since women comprise the eliminate violence against women. majority of the population below the Provide women with access to saving and poverty line and are very often in credit mechanisms and, institutions. situations of extreme poverty, given the Study the causes and consequences of harsh realities of intra-household and violence against women the effectiveness social discrimination, macro-economic of preventive measures, legal literacy of policies and poverty eradication women by creating awareness of rights programmer’s will specially address the among women through media, published www.ijar.org.in 28 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] literature and voluntary agencies. In tune doubts about the inevitability of the with various provisions of the human rights regime as the foundation of Constitution, the State has enacted much a good value based society---For human women-specific and women-related rights take a backward step, if gender legislation to protect women against justice is not achieved. Women’s equality social discrimination, violence and in power sharing and active participation atrocities and also to prevent social evil in decision making, including decision like child marriages, dowry, rape, practice making in political process at all level will of Sati, etc. Let us resolve to empower be ensured for the achievement of the women, for in that alone lies the progress goals of empowerment. The society must of the society. respond and change its attitude. Gender equality concerns each and every member A girl child is not a burden but an of the society and forms the very basis of essential constituent of the society. The a just society. Human rights issues, key to her empowerment lies not in her which affect women in particular, play a being killed in the womb but in her vital role in maintaining the peace and receiving education and becoming prosperity of a just society. economically independent. Most of the women in our country are illiterate, and References in comparison to males, are ignorant of The upnayan is regarded as one among basic law. Most of the times, they do not twelve samskaras prescribed in the register a case against those persons who Dharamshastras. It is regarded as a violate their persons or commits crimes second or spiritual birth and a person against them. Lack of awareness, political thus initiated is known as dvija or participation, poverty, traditional twice-born. oppression and customs, place an Indian women at a receiving end. Though 3. Shrauta Shutra refer to Brahmanic violence stalks women’s lives everywhere, Vedic ritual manuals. Shrauta derives law can do little unless present cultural from shruti which means revealed and social perceptions change. This calls texts, passed on orally. It belongs to for a resolve from all of us. Awakening of the early late –Vedic period and pre- the collective consciousness is the need of dates the Smritis. the day. Change of heart and attitude is 4. Patanjali was a Sanskrit grammarian what is needed. If women were to receive (of second century CE). education and become economically independent, the possibility of many 5. Ambedkar, B.R. “Women and Counter pernicious social evils dying a natural Revolution”, “Riddles of Hindu death may not remain a distant dream. Women” in Dr.Baba Saheb Laws are not enough to combat the Ambedkar: Writings and Speeches growing menace of gender injustice. A (1987), Vol.3, Department of wider social movement of educating Education, Government of women of their rights is what is needed. Maharashtra. Human rights for all must be made the focal point in good governance. To ensure progress of the nation and usher in a just and caring society. There can be no
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Dr. B.R.Ambedkar and Women Empowerment in India
Dr. B. Jyothi, M.Sc., M.Phil, Ph.D. Lecturer in Mathematics, D.N.R.(A) College, Bhimavaram – 534202
Abstract: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar – the determined fighter and a deep scholar has made significant efforts to lead the society on the path of Liberty, Equality and Fraternity. He was first Indian to break down the barriers in the way of advancement of women in India. He laid down the foundation of concrete and sincere efforts by codifying the common civil code for Hindus and other sections of the Indian Society. In January 1928 a women’s association was founded in Bombay with Ramabai, Ambedkar’s wife as its president. In the round table conference hundreds of women were present for the committee meeting. At various places depressed classes women’s conferences were held and they began to present their demands assertively. The encouragement of Ambedkar empowered women to speak out boldly their feelings. Dr. Ambedkar was well known about status of women, as the chairman of drafting committee, he tried to adequate inclusion of women’s rights in the Indian Constitution. Dr. Ambedkar believed in the strength of women’s and their role in the process reform. The present paper is an attempt to highlight Dr. Ambedkar’s view on women problems in pre and post independent India and its relevancy in present scenario. Dr. Babasaheb spent his life for the betterment of women even involved in bad practices and professionals like prostitutions. Ambedkar created awareness among poor, illiterate women and inspired them to fight against the unjust and social practices like child marriages and devadasi system. Dr. Ambedkar tried an adequate inclusion of women’s right in the political vocabulary and constitution of India. He insisted on Hindu Code bill suggesting the basic improvements and amendments in assembly. Thus his deep concern and feelings for all round development of women is expressed from his each sentence and word. Keywords: Women empowerment, Hindu Code bill, perfect equality.
I INTRODUCTION also an outstanding example of what Antonio Gramsci called an organic Dr. B.R.Ambedkar was among intellectual, that is, one who represents the most outstanding intellectuals of and articulates the interests of an entire India in the 20th century in the word. social class. Paul Baran, an eminent Marxist economist, had made a distinction in one Dr Ambedkar started his of his essays between an “intellectual movement in 1920. He stated “We shall worker” and an intellectual. The former, see better days soon and our progress will according to him, is one who uses his be greatly accelerated if male education is intellect for making a living whereas the persuaded side by side with female latter is one who uses it for critical education…” He started fierce analysis and social transformation. Dr. propaganda against the Hindu social Ambedkar fits Baran’s definition of an order and launched a journal Mook intellectual very well. Dr. Ambedkar is Nayak in 1920 and Bhishkrut Bharat in 1927 for this purpose. Through its issues
www.ijar.org.in 30 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] he put due stress on the gender equality Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar always and need for education and exposed the believed in movements led by women. He problems of the depressed as well as also added that if the women from all women. walks of life are taken in to confidence, they may play a significant role in the Ambedkar was not only the social reforms. They have played very father of Indian Constitution; he was a massive and active role to eradicate the great freedom fighter, political leader, social abuses. He insisted that every philosopher, thinker, economist, editor, married woman must participate in her social reformer, revivalist of Buddhism husband’s activities as a friend. But she and was first Indian to break down the must show the courage to deny the life of barriers in the way of advancement of slaves. She should insist on the principle women in India. He laid down the of equality. If all the women follow it, foundation of concrete and sincere efforts they will get the real respect and their by codifying the common Civil Code for own identity (Gunjal 2012). Hindus and other sections of the Indian society. He stated that women should be II OBJECTIVES, METHODS AND given all round development more MATERIALS importantly social education, their well The present paper is an attempt being and socio-cultural rights. He to highlight Dr. Ambedkar’s view on emphasized that each and every section women problems in pre and post of Indian women be given their due share independent India and the relevancy of and it is a must to maintain and protect his ideas in present political and social dignity and modesty of women (Shukla scenario of India. 2011). Secondary data collected from Women’s development is a much internet, Government documents, discussed subject but sensitization about newspapers, published papers, books and this issue is grossly neglected at gross speeches delivered by Dr. Ambedkar in root level. While we must try to build Parliament, various conferences and alternative system of health care, we meetings in pre and post independent must also expose the responsibility of the India. system for the neglect of Women. Women constitute about one half of the global III ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION population, but they placed at various Dr. Ambedkar started his disadvantageous positions due to gender movement in 1920. He stated “We shall difference and bias. They have been the see better days soon and our progress will victims of violence and exploitation by be greatly accelerated if male education is the male dominated society all over the persuaded side by side with female world. Our society ids a tradition bound education…” He started fierce society, where women have been socially, propaganda against the Hindu social economically, physically, psychologically order and launched a journal Mook and sexually exploited from times Nayak in 1920 and Bahiskrit Barat in immemorial, sometimes in the name of 1927 for this purpose. Through its issues religion, sometimes on the pretext of the he put due stress on the gender equality writing in the scripture and sometimes by and the need for education and exposed the social sanction.
www.ijar.org.in 31 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] the problems of the depressed as well as various topics. And Tulsibai Bansode women. started a newspaper ‘Chokhamela’. This shows how Ambedkar created awareness Ambedkar’s perception of women among poor, illiterate women and question, emphasizing their right to inspired them to fight against the unjust education, equal treatment with men, and social practices like child marriages right to property and involvement in the and devadasi system. political process resembled the global feminists demand. As J. S. Mill expressed Dr. Babasahed Ambedkar in the Subjection of Women, the legal exclaimed, “I strongly believe in the subordination of one sex to the other is movements run by women. If they are wrong in itself and one of the chief truly taken in to confidence, they may hindrance to human development; and change the present picture of society ought to be replaced by a principle of which is very miserable. In past, they perfect equality, admitting no privilege or have played a significant role in power on the one side, nor disability on improving the condition of weaker the other, Ambedkar also holds the same section and classes”. He always honored views on work for women (More 2011). women for their work and hardships. He strongly advocated for family In the Manu Smriti, Manu not planning measures for women in Bombay only shows contempt for women but goes Legislative Assembly. In 1942, being a on to degrade them as slaves, devoid of Labour Minister of Executive Council of intellect; denies them the right of Governor General, he introduced a education and the right to property; and Maternity Benefit Bill. He provided forbids them from performing sacrifices. several provisions in the constitution for Being India’s first Law minister and protecting the welfare and civil rights of chairman of drafting Committee of the women. He introduced the Hindu Code Constituent Assembly, Dr. Ambedkar Bill in the Parliament and highlighted thought it appropriate, rather his duty, to the issues about women’s property right. free women from the age old thralldom The bill received strong opposition from by reforming the Hindu social laws many political leaders. In turn, Dr. created by Manu. He, therefore, took Ambedkar resigned from the cabinet initiative to draft and introduce the expressing his discontent over non Hindu Code Bill in the Constituent acceptance of woman’s right by the Assembly. parliament. Besides, he highlighted the Dr. Ambedkar tried an adequate issues of Muslim women. His secular inclusion of women’s right in the political perspective is known through his vocabulary and constitution of India. i.e., thoughts on ‘Purdah’ (Veil) system, religious conversions and legal rights for Article 14 – Equal rights and Muslim women. In short, along with the opportunities in political, economic and depressed class women, his thoughts for social spheres. emancipation of all the women are Article 15 prohibits discrimination on the expressed with same allegiance. ground of sex. Gaining inspiration from Article 15 (3) enables affirmative Ambedkar, many women wrote on discrimination in favour of women.
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Article 39 – Equal means of livelihood The Hindu Code Bill was later and equal pay for equal work. split in to four Bills, and the same were put on the Statue Book by Parliament. Article 42 – Human conditions of work The Hindu Mariage Act, 1955; The Hindu and maternity relief. Succession Act, 1956; The Hindu Article 51 (A) (C) – Fundamental duties Minority and Guardianship Act, 1956 and to renounce practices, derogatory to the The Hindu Adoption and Maintenance dignity of women. Act, 1956 are the four enactments which incorporate the ideas and principles of Article 46 – The state to promote with Hindu Code Bill formulated by Dr special care, the educational and Ambedkar. They give independent status economic interests of weaker section of to women and endow them with the right people and to protect them from social of adoption, succession and property, so injustice and all forms of exploitation. completely denied by Manu. Therefore, it Article 47 – The state to raise the level of is truism to say that it is due to Dr. nutrition and standard of living of its Ambedkar that a large part of the Hindu people and the improvement of public social law is now on par with the legal health and so on. system prevailing in advanced western countries (Ahir D.C. 1990). Article 243 D (3), 243T (3) & 243R (4) provides for allocation of seats in the IV CONCLUSIONS Panchayati Raj System. In the condolence message, on The Hindu Code Bill, the most Ambedkar’s death in parliament, Prime formidable legislative measure of modern Minister Jawaharlal Nehru said “Dr. India, sought among other reforms, to Babasaheb Ambedkar was a symbol of put an end to a variety of marriage revolt against all oppressive features of systems prevailing in India and legalise Hindu society”. His dream of society, only monogamous marriages. The Code based on gender equality is yet to be also sought to confer on women the right realized and therefore his thoughts are of property and adoption which had been important for the social reconstruction denied by Manu. It put men and women that favors women empowerment. on an equal level in all legal matters. Dr. Dr. Babasaheb expressed his Ambedkar said, “I should like draw views on the state of life of all women. He attention of the house to one important stated that women must be treated fact. The great political philosopher equally and given equal prestige. He Burke who wrote his great book against insisted on Hindu Code bill suggesting the French Revolution said that those the basic improvements and amendments who want to conserve must be ready to in assembly. He also insisted and evoked repair. And all I am asking this House is: all the parliamentary members to help to If you want to maintain the Hindu pass the bill in parliament. Eventually, system, Hindu culture and Hindu society, he resigned for the same. The teachings do not hesitate to repair where repair is and thoughts of Dr. Ambedkar are useful necessary. This Bill asks for nothing not only women but also all the Indian more than to repair those parts of the even today. His deep concern and feelings Hindu system which have become for all round development of women is dilapidated”.
www.ijar.org.in 33 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] expressed from his each sentence and 6. Singariya M.R., 2013 “Dr.B.R. word. In his last speech in Indian Ambedkar: AS an Economist” Parliament we can know his feelings and International Journal of Humanities respect showed towards women. He and Social Science Invention, Vol. 2, quoted the famous thoughts of an Irish Issue (3), pp 24-27. Online available Patriot Daniel O Connal as, “No man can www.ijhssi.org Volume 2 Issue 3 be grateful at the cost of his honour, no March. 2013 PP. 24-27 woman can be grateful at the cost of her chastity. And no nation can be grateful at the cost of his liberty”. In his famous book ‘Pakistan and partition of India’ he expressed his views about Muslim women and their religious traditions, about wearing veil, their marriages and so on. Muslim women were suppressed under various religious traditions. Towards all the women, irrespective of their religion, casts and class, Babasaheb had a particular humanitarianism view. He frequently raised his voice against all sorts of injustice towards women. REFERENCES
1. Ahir, D.C (1990) “The Legacy of Dr. Ambedkar” B.R.Publishing corporation, New Delhi. 2. Ambedkar, B.R. (1987) “Women and Counter Revolution” Riddles of Hindu Women” in Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar: Writings and Speeches, Vol. 3, Department of Education, Govt of Maharashtra. 3. Arya, Sudha, (200) Women Gender Equality and the State, Deep and Deep Publications, New Delhi. 4. D. Keer, 1987. Dr. Ambedkar: Life and Mission, Bombay. 5. Gunjal V.R. 2012. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar and Women Empowerment, Social Work, Vol. XI (1), PP 84-84.
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Ambekar Views on Democracy and Human Rights
Dr. Kota Pallavi, Asst. Professor, Dr.B.R.Ambedkar College of Law, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam Abstract: Dr. Ambedkar’s contribution in the framing of democratic Constitution of India is enormous and long lasting. Dr. Ambedkar’s notion of “democratic government” went back to the fundamental idea of “government of the people, by the people and for the people”. But “democracy” meant much more to him than democratic government. “Democracy is not merely a form of government. It is primarily a mode of associated living, of conjoint communicated experience. It is essentially an attitude of respect and reverence towards fellowmen.” Another crucial feature of Dr. Ambedkar’s conception of democracy is that it was geared to social transformation and human progress. Conservative notions of democracy, such as the idea that it is mainly a device to prevent bad people from seizing power. In one of the most inspiring definitions of the term, he defined democracy as “a form and a method of government whereby revolutionary changes in the economic and social life of the people are brought about without bloodshed”. Dr. Ambedkar is one of the world’s greatest defender and promoter of human rights. He was a true visionary, contributing to a global evolution of this idea, to the legal enshrinement of rights, and to this day, he continues to inspire human rights defenders. He is always remembered by mankind for his greatest contribution to human rights movements putting human dignity and self respect in centre and enforcing the ideas of liberty, equality and fraternity in public life. Key words:- Democracy, Human Rights, Indian Constitution, Liberty, Equality, Fraternity, Principles of life, Rule of Law, Social Order, Social Democracy and Economic Democracy, Directive Principles, Democratic Institution
Political democracy cannot last unless there lies at the base of it social democracy. What does social democracy mean? It means a way of life which recognizes Liberty, Equality and Fraternity as the principles of life...... Dr. AMBEDKAR
Introduction of democracy and democracy is a part of the basic structure of the Constitution1. The preamble of the Indian Constitution declares India as a " Dr. Ambedkar said: democratic republic". India has opted for parliamentary form of government and 1 representative institutions. The Supreme Vikrant Sopan Yadav Dr. B. R. Court observed that the principle of free Ambedkar’s views on Democracy and and fair elections is an essential postulate Indian Constitution: An Analytical Appraisal; International Journal of Applied Research 2016;2(4):308-310.
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“There is one thing which I think inclusiveness of as many people and is very necessary in the working of views as possible to feed into the democracy and it is this that the name of functioning of a fair and just society. democracy there must be no tyranny of the Democratic principles run in line with majority over the minority. The minority the ideals of universal freedoms such as must always feel safe that although the the right to free speech3. majority is carrying on the government, the morality is not being hurt, or the Democracy serves to check minority is not being hit below the belt.” unaccountable power and manipulation by the few at the expense of the many, He further stated that Democracy fundamentally democracy is seen as a is not a form of government, but a form form of governance by the people, for the of social organisation. Dr. Ambedkar people. This is often implemented always had the socialistic approach which through elected representatives, which is clearly visible in his statements about therefore requires free, transparent, and democracy. He believed that, Democracy fair elections, in order to achieve essential in imparting social justice. He legitimacy. Human welfare is defined not laid down certain conditions in this only in terms of freedom from hunger regard. and poverty but also respect for individual dignity4. They are as follows2; As India’s tryst with democracy (1) there should not be glaring continues it would be pertinent to look at inequalities in society, that is, privilege Dr. Ambedkar’s views on democracy in for one class; theory and in practice. His views were (2) the existence of an opposition; quite prophetic in nature and on a careful reading one would always find its (3) equality in law and administration; relevance even now. After more than six (4) observance of constitutional morality; decades it is necessary to not only take a re-look at the way democracy has been (5) no tyranny of the majority; practised but perhaps there is also a need (6) moral order of society: and to re-visit the concept of democracy as propounded and initiated through a (7) public conscience. modern Constitution based on the The future of Indian democracy egalitarian principles of liberty, equality depends on a revival of Dr. Ambedkar's and fraternity5. visionary conception of Democracy. Democracy is seen as one of the ultimate ideals that modern civilizations strive to create, or preserve. Democracy as a 3 system of governance is supposed to allow http://www.countercurrents.org/umakant extensive representation and 080414.htm 4 https://www.usaid.gov/democracy- 2 human-rights-and-governance-strategy http://www.sjsu.edu/people/ken.nuger/cou 5 rses/pols120/Ch-3-Principles-of- http://www.countercurrents.org/umakant Democracy.pdf 080414.htm
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Dr. Ambedkar as we all know contradictions. In politics we will have played an extra ordinary role in not only equality and in social and economic life drafting the Constitution but also in we will have inequality. In politics we will piloting it clause by clause in the be recognizing the principle of one man Constituent Assembly. On 25 November one vote and one vote one value. In our 1949 when the members in the social and economic life, we shall, by Constituent Assembly were getting ready reason of our social and economic to give their seal of final approval, Dr. structure, continue to deny the principle Ambedkar spoke in an impassioned yet of one man one value. How long shall we rational way about Indian democracy and continue to live this life of contradictions? the need for strengthening it in future. How long shall we continue to deny While thanking the members he equality in our social and economic life? expressed his frank opinion on several If we continue to deny it for long, we will issues. In his own words he expressed his do so only by putting our political gratitude to them in following words: democracy in peril. We must remove this contradiction at the earliest possible "We must make our political moment or else those who suffer from democracy a social democracy as well. inequality will blow up the structure of Political democracy cannot last unless political democracy which this Assembly there lies at the base of it social has so laboriously built up.” democracy. What does social democracy mean? It means a way of life which A democratic India in its true recognizes liberty, equality and fraternity sense of the term is the only guarantee as the principles of life. These principles for a meaningful life and politics in a of liberty, equality and fraternity are not Socialist, Secular and Democratic to be treated as separate items in a Republic called India. It is also a trinity. They form a union of trinity in reminder to people who are engaged in the sense that to divorce one from the promoting and protecting all human other is to defeat the very purpose of rights for all that we need to re-stratagies democracy. We must begin by and carry forward the struggle for justice, acknowledging the fact that there is human rights and accountability and not complete absence of two things in Indian remain a mute spectator7. Dr. Ambedkar Society. One of these is equality. On the is very much needed not only in the social plane, we have in India a society present time but also for building a based on the principle of graded strong foundation for future. It should be inequality which elevation for some and emphasised in a loud and clear terms that degradation for others. On the economic no social group, let alone Dalits, could plane, we have a society in which there fight in isolation. The need of the hour is are some who have immense wealth as to forge solidarity links with different against many who live in abject poverty"6. groups of discriminated and “On the 26th of January 1950, we are going to enter into a life of 7 S.Chinnammai;Relevance of Socio- 6 economic Thoughts of Dr. Ambekar https://drambedkarbooks.com/category/co Today; Serials Publications; New nstitution-of-india/ Delhi;2011.ISBN978-81-8387-329-1.
www.ijar.org.in 37 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] disadvantaged people who are struggling The will of the people shall be the in different parts of the world. basis of the authority of government; this Ambedkar's Human Rights and will be expressed in periodic and genuine elections which shall universal and on the Democracy basis of equal suffrage and shall be held Human rights are natural by secret vote or equivalent free voting9. fundamental rights of every human being Article 25 of the Covenant of Civil and which must be respected by the state. Political Rights lays down: democracy is a popular form of governance wherein all citizens Every citizen shall have the right and participate through their representatives opportunity- in managing their own affairs. the (a) to take part in the conduct of public democratic form of government that is so affairs, directly or through freely chosen essential to the fulfillment of human representatives; rights in any society. (b) to vote and to be elected at genuine Dr. Ambedkar is one of the periodic elections which shall be by world’s greatest defender and universal and equal suffrage and shall be philosopher of human rights. He was a held by secret ballot, guaranteeing the true visionary, contributing to a global free expression of the will of electors. evolution of this idea, to the legal Democracy in India enshrinement of rights, and to this day, he continues to inspire human rights India is the biggest and one of the defenders. Ambedkar is always most important democratic country on remembered by mankind for his greatest earth. Indian democracy today is as old as contribution to human rights movements sixty-seven years and it has survived putting human dignity and self respect in despite many countries have yielded to centre and enforcing the ideas of liberty, dictatorship and military rule. The equality and fraternity in public life8. success or failure of democracy means a Human rights cannot exist lot for the future of democracy not only without rule of law. rule of law visualizes in India but in other countries as well. a democratically elected government. for A democratic form of government a democratically elected government free is run by the elected representatives of and fair elections on the basis of adult the common people. Hence, public suffrage is a pre-condition. this has been opinion is the essence of democracy. Such thus expressed by the Declaration, of form of government ensures Human Rights. Everyone has the right to good opportunity for the overall growth take part in the Government of his and well-being of its citizens10. Indian country, directly and through free elections, [Article21(1)]. 9 Akhilesh Das; Human Rights Democracy and Globalised World Order; 8 Swastik Publications; New Delhi 2011; https://talkinghumanities.blogs.sas.ac.uk/ ISBN 978-93-80138-66-4 2016/04/13/dr-ambedkar-a-visionary-for- 10 Karin Hansson, Kheira Belkacem, and human-rights/ Love Ekenberg; open Government and
www.ijar.org.in 38 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] democracy is characterized by peaceful atmosphere for discussion and coexistence of different ideas and compromise11. ideals. There is healthy cooperation and Colonnade of Democracy competition among exiting political parties. Since, ballot and not bullet is the In a democratic government key essence of democracy, there exists principles include free and open elections, multiple political parties and each parties the rule of law, and a separation of have their own ideal. powers, typically into the following12: After gaining independence in Legislature (law-making) 1947, India had chosen Parliamentary Executive (actually governing within democracy. Actually, India had no option those laws) than to choose it because of freedom movements and sociopolitical awakening Judiciary (system of courts to through-out the globe. Most of the people administer justice) of our country are illiterate and belong to Not all countries have or need extremely low-income groups. Unless the country is economically and educationally such a complete separation and many advanced, it will be wrong to think that have some level of overlap. Some governments such as the US have a clear the electorate will use their franchise to separation of powers while in other the best interests of themselves and the country. countries, such as the United Kingdom, a parliamentary system somewhat merges Democracy stands in danger the legislature and executive. when the personal rule of a democrat The Separation of Powers noted assumes dictatorial dimensions. When a that “Sometimes systems with strong national leader attempts at a dynastic rule, there is the signal of danger for separation of powers are pointed out as difficult to understand for the average democracy. Democracy fails when such person, when the political process is often system becomes a boon only to a handful somewhat fuzzy. Then a parliamentarian of people consisting of capitalist business magnets, legislators, and bureaucrats. system often provides a clearer view and Successful democratic government never it is easier to understand how ‘politics are made’. This is sometimes important when ignore the masses that work at fields and it comes to engaging the people in the factories. Right to hold opinion is never suppressed in a true democracy. The laws are framed according to democratic ideas and ideals. Democracy avoids conflict and confrontation and creates a peaceful 11 http://www.globalissues.org/article/761/de mocracy 12 Michael.J.Perry; Human Rights Theory,3: The Three Pillars of Democracy; The Human Rights to Democratic Governance, Intellectual Democracy: A research Review;social Freedom, and Moral Equality;Emory science computer Review;2014 Legal Studies Research Paper No.15-354.
www.ijar.org.in 39 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] political debate and increase the citizen's professional armies for the reason that participation13.” coups and military take-over is less likely. Others, notably the more established It is therefore unclear if what is powers, typically do have it, because they determined as best practice for an have had a recent history of war and established democracy is necessarily, or their place in the world stage may make automatically, the recipe for a newly it seems to be a necessary requirement. emerged democracy. For example, a country coming out of dictatorship may To achieve the openness that require a strong leadership to guide a transparency and accountability gives, country towards further democracy if there is an important need for a free there are still elements in the society that press, independent from government. want the old ways to come back. Such a media often represents the principle of the universal right to free This might mean more speech. This combination is supposed to integration of powers, to prevent allow people to make informed choices instability or the old rulers attempting to and decisions thereby contributing to manipulate different branches of political debate. government, for example. However, in this scenario, there is of course a greater Transparency and accountability threat that that strong leadership would also requires more bureaucracy as become susceptible to being consumed by decisions and processes need to be that power, and it may become harder to recorded and made available for the give it up later. general public to access, debate and discuss, if necessary. This seems easy to In addition to those formal aspects of a forget and so it is common to hear functioning democracy, there are other concerns raised about the inefficiency of key pillars, for example, some governmental department. Civilian control of the military Rule of Law Accountability In a democracy an elected representative Transparency. participates in making laws but is still bound by the law. once passed the law is Civilian control over the military supreme not those who made the law14. is paramount. Not only must the military Representatives can participate in be held to account by the government, changing a law, but it is changed they but the military leadership must fully along with everyone else must obey it. It believe in a democratic system if was the one of the basic principles instability through military coups and demanded in the early conflicts that lead dictatorships are to be avoided. Indeed, to the establishment of democratic some nations do not have full-time institutions. the principle involved is that a society should be able to bind itself by 13 http://www.sjsu.edu/people/ken.nuger/cou 14 rses/pols120/Ch-3-Principles-of- http://www.sjsu.edu/people/ken.nuger/cou Democracy.pdf rses/pols120/Ch-3-Principles-of- Democracy.pdf
www.ijar.org.in 40 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] the rules it collectively has chosen and no tyranny. Therefore, Ambedkar gave so individual or institution should be much importance to education. He outside the rules so chosen. believes that education is essential to Ambedkar and the Indian moralize and socialize the individuals, especially the backward classes to have a Constitution cognizance of self. For him, education Constitutionalism is not all facilities should be provided to those who about governance as it also provides are illiterate and backward, and on the contested ideas and practices concerning other, to those who want to wipe out the justice, rights, development and roots of caste system in order to realize associated autonomy15. It is commonly the ethos of democracy at the grass-root conceived to be the idea that there are level. legal restraints on the exercise of political Ambedkar, the chief architect of authority. It places limits on the state the Indian Constitution, played a action and conformity with the significant role in the process of constitution becomes a guiding principle. constitution-making. He raised the voices Ambedkar believed that of those who had been long remained Constitution is not just a written text but unheard, and had an intense it can be an effective tool to ensure commitment for the social cause and justice and equality to all the sections of upliftment of depressed, suppressed and society especially to the down-trodden down-trodden sections of the society. sections of society. He wished to achieve Indian Constitution does incorporate the several objectives with the help of social and political philosophy of constitutional provisions and, infact, Ambedkar which is most noticeably certain provisions can be traced which evident in the various provisions of the clearly reflects the influence of his vision Constitution. The Preamble, Part III, on the Indian Constitution. Part IV, and Part XVI among others are Ambedkar and Democracy determined to establish a ―just society by upholding the trinity of liberty, Ambedkar held that social union equality, fraternity and safeguarding the is a necessity to blossom and flourish the unity of the country. As argued earlier, democracy in true sense. For that, he Ambedkar gave much priority to the suggested the safeguards for the principles of equality, liberty and minorities are vital. In democracy, fraternity. For him, it is necessary to minorities must feel safe. Ambedkar ensure equality in our social and noted that the suppression and economic life at the earliest possible to exploitation of minorities in any form is solve the problem of Hindu society16. the negation of democracy and Fraternity meant a sense of humanism. If suppression is not stopped, common brotherhood of all Indians. then democracy degenerates into Ambedkar was aware of the fact that
15 Ishita Aditya ;B.R.Ambedkar's idea on 16 https://scroll.in/article/802495/why-br- equality and freedom: An Indian ambedkars-three-warnings-in-his-last- Perspective;American Journal of Social speech-to-the-constituent-assembly- Sciences 2014;2(1); 7-15 resonate-even-today
www.ijar.org.in 41 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] people divided into several thousands of One of the most interesting castes could not be a nation thus features of Ambedkar’s political empathized on social union. These all philosophy is his stress on the ethical three principles got significant place in dimension of democracy, or what he the preamble of the Constitution17. Part called “morality”. One aspect of this is III of the Constitution guarantees a the importance of “constitutional series of fundamental rights to the morality”, that is, of abiding by the spirit citizens and some specific provisions have of the constitution and not just its legal been made to safeguard the special rights provisions. Going beyond this, Ambedkar and interests of depressed classes. Most felt that “morality”, in the sense of social importantly, Article 17 is unique in the ethics, was indispensable for the sense that it has given a blow to the age- realisation of liberty and equality. In the old practice of untouchability. It reflects absence of morality, there were only two the spirit of the Constitution the alternatives: anarchy or the police. Dr. determination to restore the dignity of Ambedkar’s emphasis on morality was the individual and assure fraternity. well integrated with his commitment to Untouchability is not only prohibited but rationality and the scientific spirit. In it is made punishable by law. Part IV also particular, he considered that morality reflects the conceptualization of was always subject to rational scrutiny. .Ambedkar on democracy that is to say, a Further, his notion of morality was quite political democracy should be close to what might be called “social accompanied with the social and police rationality”18. democracy. Part XVI reserves certain Ambedkar’s devotion to the number of seats in the legislature in Buddha’s teachings occasionally jarred order to provide political representation with his commitment to critical enquiry to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled and independence of mind19. Having said Tribes. this, his recognition of social ethics as an The neglect of economic essential ingredient of democracy has not democracy was, in his view, one of the lost its relevance. chief causes of “the failure of democracy If democracy is just political in Western Europe”. As he put it: “The competition between self-interested second wrong ideology that has vitiated individuals, it will never succeed in parliamentary democracy is the failure to bringing about liberty, equality and realize that political democracy cannot fraternity. In particular, it will never do succeed where there is no social or justice to minority interests. To illustrate economic democracy... .Democracy is the point, consider the problem of urban another name for equality. Parliamentary destitution in India – the plight of democracy developed a passion for wandering beggars, street children, liberty. Morality and Social Order 18 Jean Dreze;Dr. Ambedkar and the Future of Indian Democracy; Indian Journal of Human Rights;2005. 17 19 Ambedkar, B.R. (1957), The Buddha http://www.boloji.com/index.cfm?md=Co and His Dhamma (Bombay; People's ntent&sd=Articles&ArticleID=12416 Education Society).
www.ijar.org.in 42 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] leprosy patients, the homeless, and Ambedkar’s proposal for a others. These political power whatsoever. socialist constitution was something of a Nor are they likely to have any in the political non-starter. It had little chance foreseeable future. This is the main of being accepted by the Constituent reason why the problem remains almost Assembly, where privileged interests entirely unaddressed. If this problem is to were well represented. However, come within the ambit of democratic Ambedkar did not abandon the idea of politics, it can only be on the basis of constitutional safeguards for socialist ethical concern. This illustration pertains ideals and economic democracy. to a relatively confined aspect of India’s Ultimately, these were embodied in the social problems, but the potential reach Directive Principles” of the Indian of ethical concerns in democratic politics constitution, which deal with a wide is very wide. If social ethics acquire a range of economic and social rights. The central role in democratic politics, a new Directive Principles are indeed far- world may come into view. reaching, if one takes them seriously: “In my judgment, the directive principles Democracy and Socialism have a great value, for they lay down that Ambedkar himself warned that our ideal is economic democracy... The the whole process of democratic practice object in framing this Constitution is in an unequal society was vulnerable to really twofold: (1) to lay down the form of being derailed by vested interests. There political democracy, and (2) to lay down is a hint of a chicken-and-egg problem that our ideal is economic democracy and here: what comes first, democracy or also to prescribe that every government... socialism? At one stage, it seems that shall strive to bring about economic Ambedkar envisaged that socialism democracy.” would come first, and set the stage for As it turned out, however, the democracy. His hope, at that time, was Directive Principles were not taken that “state socialism” would be enshrined seriously in independent India. hey were in the Indian constitution20. not enforceable in a court of law, and nor A socialist constitution, as he saw did electoral politics succeed in holding it, was the key to reconciling democracy the state accountable to their realisation, and socialism. Without constitutional as Ambedkar had envisaged. We are left protection for socialist principles such as with a half-baked democracy, where state ownership of land and key reasonably sound democratic institutions industries, socialism in a democratic coexist with social conditions that society was likely to be derailed by vested threaten to make parliamentary interests. Dr. Ambedkar’s blueprint for a democracy. socialist constitution was presented in The Future of Indian Democracy States and Minorities, an early memorandum submitted to the Political democracy has survived, Constituent Assembly. but economic democracy remains a distant goal, and therefore, democracy remains incomplete and lopsided. In fact, 20 Dreze J.P; and Sen, A.K (2002), India; even political democracy is not in very Development and Participation (New good health. Further, Indian democracy Delhi;Oxford University Press)
www.ijar.org.in 43 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] is confronting new challenges, including country” (Article 37). Indeed, in spite of the Hindutva movement, growing much official hostility to these principles economic inequality, the rise of today, there are unprecedented militarism, and the brazen misuse of opportunities for asserting the economic power by political parties . and social rights discussed in the constitution - the right to education, the Having said this, there are also right to information, the right to food, counter-trends, in the form of a growth of the right to work, and the right to democratic space and democratic spirit. A equality, among others. Ambedkar’s startling variety of social movements advice to “educate, organise and agitate” have flourished in India21, and creative is more relevant than ever. initiatives keep expanding the boundaries of political democracy year after year. The future of Indian democracy Many new tools of democratic practice depends a great deal on a revival of have emerged, unforeseen by Ambedkar: Ambedkar’s visionary conception of the right to information, the panchayati democracy. This vision also needs to be raj amendments, modern communication enlarged and updated in the light of technology, transnational cooperation, to recent experience. Revolutionary name a few. The quality of Indian Democracy Ambedkar’s vision of democracy is also gradually enhanced by democracy was closely related to his ideal a better representation of women in of a “good society”. He did not leave room politics, wider opportunities for people’s for any ambiguity regarding the nature of involvement in local governance, and the this ideal. On many occasions, he stated spread of education among disadvantaged that he envisaged a good society as one sections of the society. The most powerful based on “liberty, equality and and promising trend is the growing fraternity”. Democracy, as he saw it, was participation of the underprivileged in both the end and the means of this ideal. democratic processes22. Ambedkar had a It was the end because he ultimately visionary conception of democracy, which considered democracy as coterminous needs to be “rediscovered” today. But with the realisation of liberty, equality going beyond that, we must also enlarge and fraternity. At the same time, this vision in the light of recent democracy was also the means through developments. which this ideal was to be attained. In practical terms, the best For this to happen, it was course of action may be to revive the essential to link political democracy with Directive Principles of the Constitution, economic and social democracy. Indeed, and to reassert that these principles are Ambedkar’s vision of democracy was “fundamental in the governance of the inseparable from his commitment to socialism. Sometimes he referred to this 21 V.Ragupathy, Vasundara Mohan; combined ideal as “social democracy”, in Secularism and Pluralistic Democracy in a much wider sense than that in which India;Concept publications ISBN-13:978- the term is understood today. 81-8069-865-1. Conclusion 22 Ambedkar B.R (1936), Annihilation of Caste; reprinted in Government of It is important to note that the Maharashtra (1979-98), vol 1. success of democracy depends largely on
www.ijar.org.in 44 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] enlightened masses, honest and patriotic citizens. Indian democracy vests supreme power in the hands of entire community. It aims at the common welfare of the common people. It ensures universal suffrage, popular control, popular responsibility, and the elected government remain accountable to them. If we want our democracy to survive, we should be much more vigilant and the people should be much more educated to realize the importance of democratic values10. We must enlighten the masses so that they may be in a position to assert their democracy in the real sense of the term. The ideals of democracy are so appealing to citizens around the world, that many have sacrificed their livelihoods, even their lives, to fight for it. Indeed, our era of “civilization” is characterized as much by war and conflict as it is by peace and democracy.
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Dr B.R. Ambedkar’s Ideas on Social Justice in Indian Society
Sri M.V. Devanand, Lecturer in English, SMVM Polytechnic College, Tanuku
Smt. G. Indira Kumari, Lecturer in Commerce, SKSD Mahila Kalasala UG & PG (A), Tanuku
Abstract: Social justice is the spirit and vision of the Indian Constitution. It is the duty of the state to secure a social order in which the legal system of the nation promotes justice on the basis of equal opportunity and, in particular, ensures that opportunities for securing justice are not denied to any citizen by reason of economic or other disabilities. This article makes an attempt to explore Ambedkar’s ideas on social justice. Thereafter, it focuses on Ambedkar’s struggles and ideas on social justice in the Indian context and it finally explores the relevance of his mission for social justice in the present times. Key words: opportunities, promotes justice, hierarchical caste system
Introduction: Shudras) and the caste system. The Hindu legal system refused to recognize In the ancient Indian approach, the basic fundamental right that all justice was concerned with the humans are born equal. The glaring performance of duties, not with the inequalities and dehumanization based notion of rights. In ancient Indian on the hierarchical caste system, with its tradition, there were two approaches graded disabilities from birth and ‘Dandaniti’ and ‘Dharma’, which were humiliating and degrading occupations concerned with justice. ‘Dandaniti’ was assigned to certain designated low castes very close to the modern notions of to be followed by them till their death, justice (law and punishment). It were the greatest bane of the Hindu suggested the legal aspect of justice. society. There was no scope for moulding Dharma was another name for the code a new social order that could guarantee of duties and justice was nothing but social justice. The caste system founded virtuous conduct with dharma. Thus, like on Varnashrama dharma was the very Platonic justice, the Hindu tradition negation of social justice. The Hindu linked justice with performance of duties prescribed by dharma. Varnashrama dharma and the caste system pushed forth Brahmins as the The Hindu dharma, sought to be highly privileged caste with a high maintained by the ancient Hindu legal hereditary social status and stamped the system, fully supported the four Varnas vast majority of the people as ‘sudras’ (Varna is a Sanskrit word which means and ‘untouchables’ fit for only manual color or class. Ancient hindu literature labour. They were deprived of classified all humankind and all created educational opportunities and were beings into four varnas- The Brahmins, condemned to a low social status. In The Kshatriyas, The Vaishyas and The course of time, the privileges for the
www.ijar.org.in 46 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] privileged class increased and the other remained largely unsold, perhaps because classes became more and more oppressed of the progressive and unconventional and depressed; such a social structure thoughts expressed therein. If there are bred inequality in status and denial of prohibitions on the social evil of equal opportunities for all. It ushered in untouchability in the Constitution, then an unjust social order in the country. this credit goes to Ambedkar to a great Social justice in India seeks to remove the extent. Ambedkar’s greatest achievement glaring inequalities in society based on was that he made the downtrodden of such a hierarchical caste system, with its India feel their separate powerful graded disabilities from birth imposed on existence; the credit goes to him that he a large section of Hindu society and the brought all the downtrodden, conferment of privileges and position of untouchable castes under the one name dominance of Brahmins, which is a small of SCs. If Ambedkar had not pursued section of the society. special reservation facilities for the SCs/STs in the field of education and Ambedkar’s concept of social government services of the central and justice stands for the liberty, equality and states governments, their conditions fraternity of all human beings. He stood would have remained as before—laden for a social system that is based on right with sorrow and sufferings. It is the relations between man and man in all result of Ambedkar’s constant efforts spheres of his life. As a rationalist and that today there are members of humanist, he did not approve of any type parliament (MPs), members of the of hypocrisy, injustice and exploitation of legislative assembly (MLAs), The Indian man by man in the name of religion. He Administrative Service (IAS)/The Indian stood for a religion that is based on Police Service (IPS), professors and universal principles of morality and is doctors from among these castes. applicable to all times, to all countries and to all races. It must be in accord with He enshrined the principles of reason and must be based on the basic reservation for improvement of SCs/STs tenets of liberty, equality and fraternity. to enable them to progress educationally, He considered the caste system as the economically and socially, by providing greatest evil of Hindu religion. The varna extra support to them in the form of system according to him is the root cause reservation and concessions to uplift of all inequality and is also the parent of them to the level of the advanced classes. the caste system and untouchability. It is clearly seen at present that many Relevance of Ambedkar’s Concept of legal provisions have been made to give Social Justice in the Present social justice to all classes. In this way, Scenario: many schemes and programmes have been started for the all-round Dr B.R. Ambedkar’s thoughts on development of the country and a social justice were progressive. He did not measure of development has been believe in violence; he considered the achieved through it. press to be a powerful tool for social Today Ambedkar is not with us, changes for justice and freedom. He but in his free India, social and economic published Mook Nayak, Janata and differences have increased manifold. As a Samata magazines, but these magazines result, where on the one hand, there are
www.ijar.org.in 47 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] buildings touching the sky and 5-star India. Doctoral dissertation, hotels are found in the cities, on the Jadavpur University, Kolkata. other hand, there are dirty drains, places NCERT. (2010). Social justice. In full of mud and there are the huts that Political theory. New Delhi: speak of a hellish life, even worse than Publication Division. the life of animals. In such a situation, the thoughts of establishing a society Vishwanathan, S. (2010, August 30). based on equality appears only like a Khairlanji: The crime and dream. punishment. The Hindu.Retrieved Conclusion: from http://www. thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp- Resting on Ambedkar’s thoughts, opinion/khairlanji-the-crime-and- the Indian Constitution guarantees equal punishment/article588920.ece rights to all, based on social justice and human dignity. It is observed, however, that Ambedkar’s ideas of social justice could not be realized in a proper manner over the years. As such, his concept of justice will have to be propagated by institutions through civil society. Ambedkar was concerned about the overall development of the vulnerable sections of the Indian society and he chose to demolish existing caste discrimination by enacting the Constitution. Therefore, Ambedkar’s ideas of social justice remain relevant in contemporary Indian society in promoting constitutional and legal methods for upholding the rights and dignity of the vulnerable sections. References:
Agarwal, R.N. (2014, October 10). Six dalit women gang raped in Bhojpur village, 3 held. The Times of India. Retrieved from http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com /city/patna/Six-dalit-women-gang- raped-in-Bhojpur-village- 3- held/articleshow/44777796.cms Mallik, C. (2011). Justice and equality in Dr. BR Ambedker’s vision of
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Dr. B. R. Ambedkar - The Champion of Women Rights
Dr. Ch. Rama Devi, Guest faculty, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Law College, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam.
Abstract: Dr. Ambedkar had discovered the truth of life and wanted to share it with the depressed sections in the world. He has been interpreted as liberator, law maker, constitution framer, human rights upholder, a keen journalist, Jurist and finally an institution builder. Ambedkar made his own view for the women rights and that has been reflected in Indian constitution. His goal was to make a society based on social justice. To secure this goal, Ambedkar has given equal status to women on par with men by providing many provisions in the Indian constitution. To him, sexual discrimination should be root out from the society and everybody should get equal opportunity in the society. It may be noted that Dr. Ambedkar was not against Religions, he was against un-religious acts in the name of religion, by the orthodox clergies and he always opposed the unreligious act of differentiating between humans (woman & Child included) on the basis of castes, sects, sex, color or place/ status at birth.
Key wards: Indian constitution, women, social discrimination Introduction was known for his campaigns against social discrimination against dalits, Gautama Buddha was the first women and labour in India.3 Dr. preacher who revolted against the Ambedkar again restored equal status of discrimination against the women in women through Supreme law of the land society.1 In independent India rD. B. R. that is Constitution. Ambedkar was the first Law Minister and he was the architect of the Indian “We shall see better days soon constitution. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar being and our progress will be greatly one of the most influential names to be accelerated if male education is working against social discrimination, he persuaded side by side with female inspired the Modern Buddhist Movement education”4 are the words of young in India.2 He was also popularly known as Ambedkar during his studies at New Babasaheb, the Indian jurist, politician, York which came out while writing a economist and social reformer, who was letter to his father's friend. Interestingly born in 1891 in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, Dr. Ambedkar's First Academic Paper "Caste in India: their mechanism, Genesis and development" also begins with his 1 D-Mag March 2001, Edition - Ambedkar, ambedkar.org/D-Mag/D- MagMar.htm 3 Ibid 2 Dr BR Ambedkar: 7 Facts You May Not 4 Dr. Ambedkar On Women Liberation By Have Known About Him, Ratnesh Katulkar, http://www.huffingtonpost.in/2015/04/14/b http://www.countercurrents.org/katulkar3 r-ambedkar_n_7059506.html 10808.htm
www.ijar.org.in 49 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] concern towards women.5 Dr. Babasaheb has been interpreted as liberator, law Ambedkar the principle Architect of the maker, constitution framer, human Indian constitution and as an rights upholder, a keen journalist, Jurist emancipator of the poor and deprived. and finally an institution builder. For He was not only crusader against caste progress and upliftment of this society system and a valiant for the cause of the Dr. Ambedkar said my final words of downtrodden but also an elder statesman advice to you is "Educate, Agitate, and a national leader Dr. Babasaheb was organize, have faith in yourself. With the beacon of light for the millions of justice on our side, I do not see how we depressed, oppressed and exploited people can lose our battle. The battle to an of India.6 individual is a matter of joy. The battle is in the fullest sense spiritually. There is Ideology of Ambedkar on women nothing material or social in it. For ours Dr. Bababsaheb's mission in his is a battle not for wealth or for power. It life was to challenge the ideological is a battle for freedom. It is a battle for foundation of graded system of caste reclamations of the human personality.”7 hierarchy that denied equality, freedom Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar had a and human dignity to woman in Hindu strategically thought and well-defined society. But his drown documents as the process for his mission to be successful. lining documents i.e. Indian constitution Dr. Ambedkar wanted the people to brings the equality by the rule of law in cultivate the values of freedom and this nation. Dr. Ambedkar was fully equality among themselves. It is possible aware that a large population in India only through education. He regarded was in deep darkness or was placed into education as means to reach the doors of darkness and all the doors were tightly light and perception to remove the closed for any light to sneak in to. He regions of darkness and ignorance. himself underwent through that horrific Ambedkar emphasized on secular experiences and could manage to get the education for social emancipation. light he was desperately looking for. But Following the above said order, can he was not confined to his own well-being positively result in achieving more but wanted to extend it to all those who outcomes that are beneficial not only for were under perpetual darkness, our community but for the society as a ignorance, servitude, independence and whole. grief. As Buddha said that “I am not a Women’s position in pre liberator but a path-finder, emancipation is your individual effort”. Following the independent India same tradition, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar In India, the history articulates that the set himself as path-finder to millions of women are considered as a divine force people for liberation and light. but the multi-cultured Indian society Dr. Babasaheb had discovered the placed the women at different positions. truth of life and wanted to share it with the depressed sections in the world. He 7 Dr.Br.Ambedkar: Educate, Agitate And Organise..., 5 Ibid Aibheemyuvasena.Blogspot.Com/2010/11/ 6 Id. Educate-Agit...
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It is evident from Indian history that Vedas. These guidelines have evolved into there is no uniform status of women in rules followed by the people and enforced the society. The Indian philosophy poses by the rulers and have thus become de the women with dual character.8 On the facto law, origin of ancient Hindu law is one hand, she is considered fertile, believed that it is a divine law, it was patient and benevolent but on the other revealed to the people by God through hand she is considered aggressor and Vedas. Various sages and jurists have represents ‘shakti’.9 elaborated and developed the abstract concepts of life explained in the Vedas. To study the position of women in this country it is necessary to discuss the 2. Post Vedic Period position of women during the The sources of Hindu law is divided into Vedic Period two types one is ancient and another is modern. Ancient sources of law are Post Vedic Period known as uncodified Hindu law and Medieval Period modern sources are codified law. The ancient sources of law further classified 1. Vedic Period into four categories such as 1) shruti (it It is revealed from the available means what is heard and it includes the documentation that during the Vedic four Vedas i.e., rig, vajur, sam, and period women enjoyed a fair amount of athrava.) 2) Smruti means what is heard freedom and equality with men in all (it is further divided into two – early aspects of life.10 The rights and smrutis known as dharma sutras (they obligations of a Hindu are determined by were mostly written in prose form and ancient Hindu law, which is a branch of verses) and later smruthi known as dharma. The main source of ancient dharmashastras (they were based on Hindu law is smrities. Dharma is an dharma sutras and mostly in metrical idiom of wide introduction of law which is verse. They dealt with acahara, vvavahar an extract of rights, duties and and prayschitta), 3) commentaries and obligations, which can be religious, digests, commentaries were work done to moral, social and legal. The main source explain a particular smriti is called a from which the Hindu law is derived is commentary. Digests were mainly Dharma. From thousands of years people written after commentaries and it mainly living in the Indian subcontinent have incorporated and explained from all the been leading their lives by following the smrutis. 4) Custom based on practices guidelines and concepts given in the followed by all the people of this country and it is also known as transcendent law 8 Dr. S. C. Tripathi And Vibha Arora, (there are four types of customs such as “Law Relating To Women And Childern”, local, family, caste and community, and Central Law Publications, 2010. guild)11 . Since from the region of 500 BC 9 Ibid the status of women gradually declined 10 Mishra, R. C. (2006). Towards Gender with the Smritis and other religious texts Equality. Authorspress. Isbn 81-7273-306- giving diktats which adversely affected 2. Archived 29 October 2010 At The Wayback Machine. 11 Sources of Hindu Law - Hanumant, hanumant.com/SourcesOfHinduLaw.htm
www.ijar.org.in 51 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] women's freedom and rights.12 efforts on the path of liberty. He was the Manuscript provides a woman with first Indian reformer who roots out the property rights to six types of property. barriers in the way of advancement of These include those she received at her Indian society in general and of women in marriage or as gift when she eloped or particular. Above all he was a pioneer of when she was taken away or as token of social justice.15 Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar love before marriage, or as gifts from her was a great son of India. He was truly a biological family, or as received from her man of social justice who believes in husband subsequent to marriage, and equality and humanity. He has played also from inheritance from deceased very important and constructive role in relatives.13 In the Manu Smriti, Manu not shaping the Independent India.16 Dr. only shows contempt for women but goes Ambedkar is a leader of modern India. on to degrade them as slaves, devoid of As it is because of him only we got the intellect; denies them the right of best constitution in the world. He laid education and the right to property. down the foundation of concrete and sincere efforts by codifying the common 3. Medieval Period civil court for Hindus and other sections In medieval period women’s position in of the Indian society. He established the society subjected to further finance commission of India and RBI was deteriorated, this was a period when conceptualized by the guidelines from his important scriptures propagated the idea book "Problem of Rupee - Its origin and that women were unfit freedom and its solution” to empower women at that independence. time and to give them all around development more specifically social In the modern India, the status of Indian education.17 women can be divided into two different periods, Pre-Independence India (the Being India’s first Law minister and British Rule) and Post-Independence chairman of drafting Committee of the India.14 During 18th century some drastic Constituent Assembly, Dr. Ambedkar changes brought in political orderliness, thought it appropriate, rather his duty, to but the social structure, customs, and free women from the age old thralldom practices in the Indian society remained by reforming the Hindu social laws. He, unchanged. It was during the therefore, took initiative to draft and 19th Century eminent leaders of Indian society understood the importance of women. Dr. Ambedkar-the great fighter 15 Ambedkar and woman rights: An and a deep thinker has made significant analysis Satyajit Das Asst. Professor, Dept. of Political Science, G.D.C., 12 Women in History, Dharmanagar, North Tripura. https://web.archive.org/web/200906190850 16 Welcome to ambedkartimes.com, 59/http://nrcw.nic.in/index2.asp?sublinkid www.ambedkartimes.com/the_news.htm =450 17 What are the contributions of Dr. B. R. 13 Patrick Olivelle (2005), Manu's Code of Ambedkar towards ..., Law, Oxford University Press, ISBN 978- https://www.quora.com/What-are-the- 0195171464, pages 200-201, 746-809 contributions-of-Dr-B-R-Ambedkar- 14 Supra6 towards-India
www.ijar.org.in 52 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] introduce the Hindu Code Bill in the Article14 - Equal rights and Constituent Assembly.18 opportunities in political, economic Ambedkar’s contribution towards and social spheres women rights in India Article 15 prohibits discrimination on the ground of sex. In India, discriminatory attitude towards men and women has existed for Article 15(3) enables affirmative generations and affects the lives of both discrimination in favour of women. genders. Although the constitution of Article 39 and 39(d) state Equal India has granted men and women equal means of livelihood and equal pay for rights, gender disparity still remains. equal work. Gender discrimination violates not only human rights but also fundamental Article 41 the state shall guarantee rights. Rights are given to all human within its economic limits to all the beings not only for men but also for citizens, the right to work, to women. These are mostly seen in family education and public assistance in land sharing among sisters and brothers. certain cases. Baba Sahib Dr. Ambedkar worked with, Article 42 – Human conditions of dedication, zeal and conviction for the work and maternity relief and betterment of women on becoming maternity relief. Chairman of Constitution Drafting Committee and First Law Minister of Article 44, the state provides a independent Indian. He gave India a uniform Civil Code to all the citizens living and organic constitution, throughout the territory of India. enshrining in it all those conditions Article 46 – The state to promote with which are necessary to promote special care, the educational and fraternity among all citizens of free India, economic interests of weaker section including women. Discrimination on the of people and to protect them from basis of caste, religion, sex, creed, place of social injustice and all forms of birth was codified as illegal acts under exploitation. the Statute book.19 Constitutional Rights and Women Article 47 – The state to raise the level of nutrition and standard of Dr. Ambedkar tried an adequate living of its people and the inclusion of women rights in the political improvement of public health and so vocabulary and constitution of India are20 on Article 51 (A) (C) – Fundamental duties to renounce practices, 18 Supra1 derogatory to the dignity of women. 19 Dr. Ambedkar and Women Empowerment, Article 46 – The state to promote with http://dalitvision.blogspot.in/2013/02/dr- special care, the educational and ambedkar-and-women- economic interests of weaker section empowerment.html 20 Dr. Ambedkar and Gender Equality, ons/symposium/international/2013/Social http://www.seu.ac.lk/researchandpublicati %20Sci/Dr.%20Ambedkar%20and.pdf
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of people and to protect them from Hindu Code bill to Constituent assembly social injustice and all forms of in October 1948, which was under exploitation. consideration since 1941 this, gave a great shock to the reactionary Article 47 – The state to raise the opponents. But it has been supported by level of nutrition and standard of elite personalities such as Justice living of its people and the Gajenderagadkar, an eimnent Sanskrit improvement of public health and so Scholar, jurist & Judge of the Bombay on. High Court he stated, “If Dr Ambedkar Article 243D (3), 243T (3) & 243R (4) gives us Hindu Code Bill his achievement provides for allocation of seats in the would go down in history as a very Panchayati Raj System. eloquent piece of poetic justice indeed”.23 The discussion on this historic Bill by the But Ambedkar made his own Modern Manu began on Feb.5, 1951 in view for the women rights and that has the Parliament been reflected in Indian constitution. His goal was to make a society based on social Dr. B. R. Ambedkar not only justice. To secure this goal, Ambedkar ascertains constitutional guarantees to has given equal status to women on par women but also introduced a Hindu Code with men by providing many provisions Bill to strengthen the position of women in the Indian constitution. To him, sexual in the society. Ambedkar’s defense for discrimination should be root out from women as the Law Minister of free India the society and everybody should get appeared in the form of the Hindu Code equal opportunity in the society. It may Bill in Parliament on 11th April 1947, the be noted that Dr. Ambedkar was not Bill could not withstand the opposition against Religions, he was against un- from the Hindu orthodoxy. Their major religious acts in the name of religion, by argument was that the Bill was an the orthodox clergies and he always attempt at the “demolition of the entire opposed the unreligious act of structure and fabric of Hindu differentiating between humans (woman Society. In reality, the Bill was a threat to & Child included) on the basis of castes, patriarchy on which traditional family sects, sex, color or place/ status at structure, was bounded and that was the birth.21 Dr. Ambedkar said “If God does major reason behind the opposition. The not recognize man or woman by caste or Bill sought to abolish polygamy among place of birth, the man made Orthodox the hindu’s it proposed the right to and superstitious religions cannot/should property and the right to divorce for not do so”.22 women. The bill tried to codify the Hindu The Hindu Code Bill Laws which were in a scattered form. He proposed to reform these laws on seven To strike last in the coffin of different matters,24 viz., discrimination against Indian women, Dr i) the right to property of a deceased Ambedkar raised a new battle cry by Hindu dying intestate to both male finally submitting modified and revised and female,
21 Supra19 23 Id. 22 Ibid 24 Id.
www.ijar.org.in 54 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] ii) the order of succession among submitted his resignation to the then different heirs to the property of a prime minister on 27 September, 1951, in deceased dying inestate, his resignation he stated that iii) the law of maintenance, “For a long time I have been thinking of resigning my seat from the Cabinet. The iv) marriage, only thing that had held me back from v) divorce, giving effect to my intention was the hope that it would be possible to give vi) adoption, and effect to the Hindu Code Bill before the vii) minority guardianship. life of present Parliament came to an end. I even agreed to break up the bill and Despite the very moderate nature restricted it to Marriage and Divorce in of Bill ,Dr. Ambedkar could not get it the fond hope that atleast this much of passed due to opposition by many our labour may bear fruit. But even that conservative personalities. This bill part of Bill had been killed. I see no speaks about the legislative measure of purpose in my continuing to be a Member modern India, sought among other of your Cabinet”.26 In protest against the reforms, to put an end to a variety of failure of the Bill,Dr.Ambedkar resigned marriage systems prevailing in India and his seat in the cabinet. Although ,his legalize only monogamous marriages. efforts did not, entirely, go waste. Later, The Code also sought to confer on the original Bill was split into four women’s right to property, adoption and different Bills with slight changes. Those maintenance. It put men and women on were passed as 27 equal level in all legal matters. While introducing the Hindu code bill Dr. B. R. the Hindu Marriage Act,1955; Ambedkar addressed the house as The Hindu Succession Act,1956; follows: the HinduMinority and “I should like draw attention of the house Guardianship Act,1956; and to one important fact. The great political philosopher Burke who wrote his great the Hindu Adoption and book against the French Revolution said Maintenance that those who want to conserve must be The Preamble of Indian ready to repair. And all I am asking this constitution guarantees social and House is: If you want to maintain the economic justice to women and that is Hindu system, Hindu culture and Hindu because of Ambedkar contribution. In the society, do not hesitate to repair where preamble28 it is mentioned: i) social, repair is necessary. This Bill asks for economic and political justice, ii) freedom nothing more than to repair those parts of thought, expression, belief, faith and of the Hindu system which have become worship, iii) equality of status and dilapidated”.25
But unfortunately this bill was not 26 Ibid approved by the parliament; Dr. B. R. 27 Id. Ambedkar protested strongly and 28 Preamble to the Constitution of India, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Preamble_to 25 Supra 17 _the_Constitution_of_India
www.ijar.org.in 55 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] opportunity and iv) fraternity assuring such as education sports, politics, media, dignity of the individual and national art and culture, service sector, Science unity to all the citizens of India without and Technology. But due to the deep any discrimination of caste, creed or sex. rooted patriarchal mentality in the Dr.Babasaheb Ambedkar's main motto Indian society, women are till victimized, was for liberation and empowerment of humiliated, tortured and exploited. Even Indian women. He framed many laws for after seven decades of independence. Women in India as follows,29 Women are still subjected to discrimination in the social, economic 1) Dearness Allowance, and educational field. 2) Women Labour welfare fund, Women of today have became 3) ESI, powerful they have equal opportunities as men have in all the fields like education, 4) Provident fund Act, marriage, Job, property etc. Women are 5) Women Labour Protection Act, now free to do everything according to their will.Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar once 6) Maternity Benefit for women Labour stated that “I am a great believer in bill, women’s organization. I know that what 7) Divorce Act, they can do to improve the condition of the society if they are convinced. In the 8) Right over parental Property, eradication of social evils they have 9) Leave Benefit to Piece Workers, rendered great services. I will testify to that from my own experience. Ever since 10) Revision of Scale of Pay for I began to work among the depressed Employees, classes, I made it a point to carry women 11) Restoration of Ban on Women along with men.” Working Underground in Mines etc., At present the Indian women have 12) No marriage before age of 18 years, progressed a lot in various part of their life although they are still suffering from 13) Maintenance allowance from husband various social evils like dowry, eve on getting legally separation, teasing, rape etc. It is a fact that in the 14) Widow can adopt a child, glorious development of Indian society, the Indian women have march forward to 15) Mother can change guardian by will the developmental process and 16) Equal pay for equal work irrespective somewhere treated equally with their of the sex. male counter parts but it is yet to be verified by the people of India with Basing on the ideas championed by our women should have given the equal founding father Dr. B. R. Ambedkar for rights and opportunity with men so as to women empowerment, many social, establish a shining India where women economic and political provisions were can live freely, equally irrespective of incorporated in the Indian Constitution. religion caste, creed and gender etc. Women in India now participate in areas
29 Supra 17
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Socio-Economic and Inclusive Democracy – The Dream of Dr B R Ambedkar.
Dr A.B.Saraswathi, Asst. Professor, KLU Business School, KL University, Guntur, AP Satyanarayana Kanakala, Asst. Professor, Dept. of MBA, Pydah PG College, Visakhapatnam,
K Venkatalaxmi, MA English Previous, Dr VS Krishna Degree & PG College, Visakhapatnam,
Abstract : Inclusive democracy is a process and frame work in order to include women and marginal social groups like SC’s and ST’s and minorities in a democratic dialogue and process.. What Ambedkari thought and dreamt about independent India was –‘So long as you do not achieve social liberty, whatever freedom is provided by the law is of no avail to you’ this vision and thought exactly fits into the present Panchayati Raj system, because ruling and planning starts from the roots. We have good systems but not holistic and realistic in implementing the real democracy.Democracy should not mean only voting. It is a poor substitute for democracy which requires direct by the citizens. There are most stakeholders from democracy in the present day. Democracy has become the politics of everyday life. It is concerned with problems closely related with people’s daily lives. In this paper the writer wish analyze to what extent these Panchayats have emerged as institutions of self-governments, enabled people ‘s participation – particularly the marginalized sections of the society (Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and women) For this study the secondary data / report prepared by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj has been taken for analysis. Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) was entrusted to prepare the devolution of policy during 2014-15. The 73rd Amendment helped the largest population of this nation under grassroots democratic management and governance. Panchayats at the micro level can do miracles to the villagers, provided they are holistic. They can do yeoman service to imbibe, inculcate and institutionalize the democratic local management in the country. In this respect let the state governments believe in their strengths to bring about transformation in the lives of the masses and give them full opportunity to empower grass root direct democracy in rural India, where the majority of the people will enjoy the fruits of democracy –what exactly the vision of Ambedkar. In this paper the writers wish to focus the vision, the dreams, the ideals and the ideas of the father of Indian Constitution. An attempt is also made to correlate the same with the father of our nation. Key words: grassroots democratic, Social Sciences, self-governments
Origin of the idea of ‘democracy’: votes in the assembly on the laws and policies of the community, and also to The idea of democracy took its origin as a share in their administration through classical institutional form in Athens in jury service and membership of the the fifth and fourth centuries B.C. All the administrative council, which were Athenian citizen had an equal right to recruited in rotation by lot. take part in person in discussions and
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In the post Cold War world, democracy educational or professional background, has become a universal ideal, wherein all are equal in the eyes of law. In a presently almost all the countries democracy the people are supposed to be irrespective of their economic their own masters. development aspire to follow, as it is the Churchill defined democracy as “the gate way for socio-economic development. worst form of government except for all In the very good olden ancient period those others that have been tried”. Indian Village Republics and the Greek According to Amartya Sen- “Democracy city States, all the citizens of their remains the only system of government respective villages /cities used to that commands global respect” assemble together and decide directly Very old, universally known and simple issues of governance, which can be called definition of democracy, ‘’Government of as direct popular democracy. In this case the people, by the people, for the people’’. both legal and political severity could be This famous and simple definition of said to vest in the people. democracy becomes meaningful when Now as the size of population and the democratic practices actually percolate to area increased a lot, all forms of direct the grassroots level. The emergence and democracy extent from all over the world evolution of Panchayati Raj system in except for a few Swiss cantons. The very India has in fact given the way for recent referenda on a very important further strengthening our democratic issue ‘Brexit’ is the example where people roots. Needless to say, decentralization is given the verdict vote. Modern democracy the key to attain better economic thus has of has of necessity to be indirect efficiency, accountability and overall representative democracy. Wherein, the socio-economic development with government will make the laws to suit equitable distribution of income and the situations by the elected wealth. representatives of the people. Under this PRINCIPLES system where multiple political parties are participating, the best (majority out Throughout our life at the micro or of minority) out of the worst are the macro level, we take decisions/ are taken decision makers. with the help from others or individually Meaning and Definitions: to suit the situations. Men being a social animal collective decisions are always ‘Democracy’ –the Greek word, literally preferred than the individual. It is means ‘demos’ meant ‘the people’ and nothing but the collective decision that ‘Kratos’ meant ‘government’ or ‘rule’. seeds the democracy. It embodies the Democracy therefore, meant government ideal that such decisions, affecting the by the people as against monarchy or association or the society as a whole dictatorship. Like socialism’ or represent the principle of democracy. ‘secularism’, democracy also meant Democracy, in other words, entails the different things to different people. Its twin principles of popular control over basic things are that the sovereign power collective decision-making and quality of resides in the people, that irrespective rights in the exercise of that control. of religion , caste, creed , color or sex and Democratic principles are relevant to irrespective of the level of economic,
www.ijar.org.in 58 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] collective decision making in any kind of inequalities and where there is a greater association need for inclusiveness, how the nation is called as democracy in real. People all over the world much talk about ‘democracy’, but the word tend s to mean Socio- economic Democracy: different things to different people, Dr Ambedkar cautioned the people at hence, there is lot of confusion about large saying “we are going to enter into what democracy actually involves. It is a life of contradictions. In politics, we will fact that those nations which has no have equality and social and economic competitive elections or universal rights, we will have inequality----We must suffrage, or where elected politicians have remove this contradiction or else who no effective control over the non-elected suffer from this inequality will blow up state officials, or where there is no the structure” guaranteed rights of associations, assembly or freedom of expression-will Democracy does not mean nearly not come under democracy. It guarantees political democracy or the people’s right the basic freedoms. Once Ambedkar to vote and elect the representatives. expressed that he likes the religion that Without social and economic democracy, teaches liberty, equality and fraternity. political democracy has no meaning in Democracy aims at treating all people the developing countries like India. the equally. Jeremy Bentham, an English main aim of Dr. Ambertkar is social- Legal theorist said ‘Every one to count economic democracy and the ultimate for one and none for more than one,’ This goal is to achieve socialistic pattern of principle of equality not only that of society. He said that parliamentary people’s interest s to be attended by the democracy was meaningless unless it was government policy, but also that their geared to achieving the real economical views should count equally democracy. Unless economic problems INTRODUCTION are not solved, the political structure tends to weaken and crack up. Hence, Democracy has a very long history in the once should look for economic democracy world. In India it got tremendous which means “working for certain impetus in our struggle for measure of equality of opportunity in the Independence. We can learn lot of lessons economic sphere.” taking the experiments still going with This is very clear from our Preamble democracy. The structure of democracy which speaks of securing to all citizens of itself does not guarantee real democracy the Republic “Justice, Social, Economic to the society, as it demands equity in all and Political.” Founding fathers like respects. Irrespective of the level of Ambedkar, Nehru and many more development, with the existence of socio- leaders were quiet clear in their vision economic inequalities – there will not be that political justice was meaningless any real democracy. Civil society of any without economic justice. In our society, nation cannot claim to be democratic having religious, caste and creed, regional until it achieves equity in all respects – discrimination even the economic justice what exactly thought by Ambedkar. was not enough unless it is coupled with When majority of the people of any social justice. nation are suffering from socio-economic
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Dr Ambedkar had said – on 26-01-1950, inclusive democracy in his book- we are going to enter into a life of “Towards an inclusive democracy: the contradictions. In politics, we will have crisis of the growth economy and the equality and in social and economic life need for libratory project” we will have inequality. In politics we will . Inclusive democracy is a process and be recognizing the principle of one man frame work in order to include women one vote and one vote one value. In our and marginal social group in a democratic social and economic life we shall, by dialogue and process. This also can be region of our social and economic called as politics of difference. In the structure continues to deny the principle democratic setup there has been of one man one value. displacement of power upward Opinion of AMBEDKAR (transnational networks, international organizations and big global companies), Constitution is the basic law of the land. downward (Local governance The Supreme Court is not above the institutions) and outward (Communities constitution and laws. It is also and non- profit organizations, NGO and accountable to the sovereigns the people Civil Societies) It works when people of India. Dr Ambedkar in the Constituent from all sections of the society are Assembly did not favor the Panchyat empowered to participate in governance, systems. He harshly said they are dens of raise objections, take decisions and corruption, localism, backwardness etc. ensure social and political accountability. but respecting Gandhi thought as a This will require delegation of power compromise or concession to Gandhi’s from below and true devolution of power views, article 40 was included under the to the common man. This can be achieved non- enforceable Part IV on the Direct in its true sense through implementation Principles of State Policy. It is said that of 73rd Amendment in its true spirit, the state shall take steps to organize giving importance to the ideas and ideals Village Panchayats and undo them with of Ambedkar. necessary authority “to function as units of self government” The concept of inclusive became a buzz word and is widely used in many subjects, At present, this system begin a new era of including politics. Society will suffer, if real representative and participatory some are excluded from economic democracy with nearly 3/2 million elected inclusion. Like that, inclusive democracy representatives- 1/3 of the women ( in presupposes the freedom to various social some states 50%) involved in the business and religious groups to practice their of governance all over India, there by faith without fear (a part of secularism). bringing power to the people at the The structure of democracy needs the village level where it belonged. institutionalized values of freedom, Inclusive Democracy: equity, secularism and social justice. A number of legislative measures such as The concept of inclusive democracy was Right to Information, Right to Education, conceived in late 1990’s and mostly and Right to food MGNREG Act are some introduced in the practicing political of the positive approach for inclusive discourse in the new millennium. Takis democracy as viewed by our founding Fotopoulus has introduced the concept of fathers of our nation.
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Dreams of Ambedkar and Gandhi: vital characteristics of democratic management ,viz. bottom up planning, Ambedkar and Gandhi had many dreams participatory decision making , to make India as one of the largest, truly community led implementation of democratic. The father of our Indian development programmes and welfare Constitution said that- “Men are mortal. schemes involving all sections of the So are ideas. An idea needs propagation people to achieve equitable and inclusive as much as a plant needs watering. and integrated growth can be seen under Otherwise both will wither and die”. the empowered PRIs mandated under Replying a query on this ‘’Dream for 73rd amendment. India’’ Gandhi wrote in his journal Young India, 10th September 1930. ‘’I shall work Deepening Grassroots of for an India in which the poorest will feel Democracy: it is his country, in whose making he has The 73rd Amendment to the Constitution an effective voice’ In this respect the (hereafter referred to Central Act) which dreams of both are same, but some feel was passed about two decades ago and that approach to reach and achieve may the enactment of the Provisions Of be different. Panchayats (Extensions to Scheduled Professor Irving Younger of the Cornell Areas) Act 1996 to strengthen the University suggested that our judges Panchayat Raj System, thereby the should evolve the doctrine that ‘’no law is deepening the grassroots democracy. The validly enacted unless legislators voting state legislatures have been givin powers for it have read’’. By this test 95 percent to decide on the composition of Grama of the laws passed by the Indian Sabha and Grama Panchayaths. Parliament and the State Legislatures Therefore, powers and functions and would have to be invalidated. compositions of Grame Panchayats determine state governments in line with Ambedkar and Gandhi thoughts are local needs. identical. Gandhi said that “my idea of village Swaraj’ is that, it is complete Grama Sabha is the basic foundation of republic independent of its neighbors for Panchayati Raj System. A village with it s own vital wants” matches with not less than 1500 population forms Ambedkar’s ideas and ideals. The Grama Sabha and every adult becomes a Panchayati Raj Institutional (PRIs) set member of it. If the population is less up, especially mandated under 73 rd than that such villages are grouped to Amendment to the Constitution of India gather to form a Grama Sabha. The is most appropriate manifestation of functions of Grama Sabha changes from democracy envisioned as a system of good time to time as prescribed by respective governance and inclusive development of states. The basic difference between the people, for the people and by the Grama Sabha and Grame Panchayat is people. It is a right step towards that, while Grama Sabha constitutes each empowering direct and inclusive adult member of a village, Grama democracy as against representative Panchayat is the Executive members democracy system practiced under elected by the Grama Sabha to work for parliamentary and legislative systems of the village development. governance is a vision by Ambedkar. The Observations:
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The main features of this exercise is that developmental funds and the status of it is based on examining the activity , infrastructure and administrative mapping covering the transfer of systems in place. functions, functionaries and finances to CHALLENGES PRIs in the subject listed in the 11th Schedule of the Constitution and One of the major challenges that grassroots reality. This survey was done democratic practice has to face in India is by the TISS taking all the states except to eradicate corruption at all levels and in Mizoram, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Goa. all fields of civic administration and A total sample of 41 District Panchayats, public life. We can find two way 39 PSs and 42 GPs have been taken for relationships between the practice of the field study by TISS. democracy and eradication of corruption. The former can help the latter, but the It is observed from the table that from latter, he needs turn, can be of great the point of view of DPo states like value in extending the force and Kerala, Karnataka, Maharahtra and effectiveness of the former. Corruption Sikkim and West Bengal are the better can have a deeply adverse effects on performers. About DPr the table shows equity. It is a major threat to democracy. Kerala stands out as the top performing state in this index It means there is no Democracies face considerable challenges difference between the policy and its from ethnic and religious and other translation in the field from the point of divisions from unemployment and view of decentralization. It is also economic fluctuations; from a wide observed that none of the states have spread feeling among people of achieved cent percent devolution. Kerala powerlessness over their own lives. which tops the list has an index of less 80. Although we offer no solution to this From the point of view DPr which shows problems as they are partly socio actual happening of decentralization, as economic in nature we recognize the much as 92 percent states not crossed the importance of survival democracy in the devolution index of 50. contemporary world including in India. In the table, devolution in policy (DPo) There are four chief components of reflects the state government’s policy functioning of democracy. They are also commitment to devolve powers to the called building blocks of functioning Panchayats. It includes functions, democracy. They are free and fair functionaries and finances officially elections open and accountable allocated to the Panchayats and government, civil and political rights, infrastructure and governance structure democratic are civil society. This created for the smooth functioning of framework can be represented like a Panchayat operations. Devolution in pyramid in which each component is practice (DPr) reflects actual devolution necessary to the whole. happening in the field and validates the Suggestions: data obtained from the state governments. This indicator shows actual The 73rd Amendment helped the largest control of Panchayats over transferred population of this nation under institutions, functions and functionaries, grassroots democratic management and financial autonomy and utilization of governance. Panchayats at the micro
www.ijar.org.in 62 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] level can do miracles to the ,villagers. censored distribution of news and fair They can do yeoman service to imbibe, comment and very importantly wide inculcate and institutionalize the spread actual participation of people democratic local management in the including the marginalized. country. In this respect let the state Democracy has important instrumental governments believe in their strengths to role in enhancing the hearing the people bring about transformation in the lives of get in response claims to political and the masses and give them full claims of economic needs. The success of opportunity to empower grass root direct democracy can be judged by taking into democracy in rural India, where the account the fulfillment of its demands. majority of the people will enjoy the Most of the desirable reforms are possible fruits of democracy. without amendments in the provisions of Standards of ethics and decency in public the Constitution. life are less easy to enforce by law than Conclusions: by public opinion (leaving democracy) obedience to values- which is enforced not What India badly needs, and sadly lacks, by machinery of criminal justice but by is not political leadership but moral and the national ethos- is the ultimate ethical leadership, which can be lead to guarantee of public life. You must not the true democracy and renaissance of desert the ship because you cannot true Indian culture. India as one of the control the winds. It is better to try to do largest and most vibrant democracies in something and fail, rather than try to do the world enjoys a unique place among something and succeed. the comity of nations. All the time our democratic system has emerged from One of the basic feature s of our strength to strength over the last 69 constitution is democratic polity which years. In fact, for the newly emerging cannot be altered by any Constitution states/nations, India has become a role amendment. We have at present adopted model as powerful and meaning full and following representative democracy. As we salute the founding parliamentary democracy. The founding fathers of our nation for the tremendous fathers (Constitution makers) tried to wisdom and foresight in laying down the provide for the fullest representation by guiding principles, we have equal giving voting power to all the adult responsibility to match ahead in the right population of the country without any path of democracy. literacy, property, race, creed, religion, region are sex criteria. Finally what Ambedkar,the father of our Constitution and Gandhi, the father of The success of “participatory democracy” our nation thought of inclusive depends on the people “choices” in democracy means a few social and preparing the programmee. Democracy economic concessions programmee until must not be confused nearly with inequalities in the distribution of income establishment formality majority rule. It and wealth. Taking that into account the demands free and fair elections present government taking up many protection of human rights and political economic programs the biggest and liberties, respect for legal entitlement, widely implementing is Mahatma Gandhi guarantying of free discussions and un National Rural Employment Guarantee
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(MGNREG) in addition to other economic Ambedkar, Gandhi, Nehru and other programs to uplift the rural poor. It is great leaders in working the Constitution very sorry that Gandhi was aware that to find out if any of the problems. We had the picture that he had towards India to considered what changes- legal, would be called Ethiopian. But, administrative or economic socio Ambedkar’s thoughts are very practical economic and take necessary step and most realistic to implement. Thanks through Constitutional amendments if to the present developmental programs they come across that are being implemented at the grass References: root level respecting the Gandhian approach and Ambedkar’s dreams to 1) David Beetham and Kevin Boyle build the modern India. (1996) – “Democracy 80 questions and Answers”, National Book Trust What Ambedkar expected is far away to of India. Published in Association the present. Their present generation with UNESCO publishing p4,28,114. feeling is values in all spheres and in all professions declining. Rampant 2) Jeen Dreze and Amartyasen, (2002) - corruption, terrorist activities going on India development and participation- increasing both in absolute and relative Oxford University Press, New Delhi terms. Use of money and muscle power in p144,375,77. elections at all levels- “ the politicization 3) Mahipal: Panchyat Raj in India: of criminals “ and “ criminalization of Deeping Grassroot Democracy, politics “ and the divisive tendencies like Kurukshatra, Nov, 2015, pg no 05 caste ism and communalism, religion, regionalism are raising their ugly heads 4) Subhash C. Kashyap, (2001) – Our hear and there, now and then giving the Constitution- An introduction to total opinion as dirty politics. What India Constitution and Constitution Ambedkar said, in any representative law- National Book Trust, New Delhi democracy – the root concerns are two p9,340. namely stability and responsibility. The 5) Sudarshan Iyengar: Inclusive growth is not inclusive in nature though democracy A Gandhian Prospective, we completed 12th Five Year Plan. Yojana, Aug 2013, pg no 53 In this respect- whether anything what expected by the founding fathers
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Ambedkar and the Constitution of India
Ujjwal Ashutosh and Sushree Sunanda Sahu Semester-2 Damodaram Sanjivayya National Law University, Visakhapatnam.
Abstract: The inception of the Indian Constitution in 1950 was a significant event not only in the political history of India but also in the history of ‘social justice’ and ‘human rights’. At the same time, it has opened up new avenues of human welfare and development in the Indian subcontinent by providing equal rights and privileges to the citizens at large. The Constitution of independent India was meant more than a mere legal manuscript—that likely to structure the norms of governing as well as define the functions of various key institutions and political actors—for the whole society in general and underprivileged sections in particular. The latter were exploited in multiple ways over the centuries owing to the dominant social order of Hindu society, and perhaps this is why, they had a lot of expectations from the newly adopted legal document. The primary aim of the paper is to examine the fact that to what extent the Indian Constitution comprises the vision of B. R. Ambedkar and more specifically, to explore the ways in which the social and political philosophy of Ambedkar have influenced the development of constitution-making in India.
However good a Constitution may be, it is sure to turn out bad because those who are called to work it, happen to be a bad. However bad a Constitution may be, it may turn out good if those who are called to work it, happen to be a good lot. -Dr. B.R.AMBEDKAR
Introduction of independent India was meant more than a mere legal manuscript— that India gained the status of ‘free and likely to structure the norms of sovereign’ nation-state in August 15, governing, define the functions of various 1947 after a long struggle and countless key institutions as well as political sacrifices. It adopted Constitution on actors—for the society as a whole and November 26, 1949 which came in particularly for the underprivileged enforcement on January 26, 1950. It is sections who were exploited in multiple often considered as one of the gigantic ways over the centuries especially due to constitutions in the world which the prevailing dominant social order of establishes a democratic state. The Hindu society. The process of inception of the Indian Constitution in constitution-making during the 1940s 1950 was a significant event not only in was thus laden with various sets of the political history of India but also in expectations and requirements. In fact, it the history of ‘social justice and human was assumed that the new Constitution rights’. At the same time, it has opened would be effective enough to terminate up new avenues of human welfare and the unending patterns of exploitation development in the Indian subcontinent based on gender, caste and religion, and by providing equal rights and privileges bring increasingly sought changes in the to the citizens at large. The Constitution deeply hierarchical and unequal social www.ijar.org.in 65 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] structure so one could live with dignity prohibition of all forms of discrimination and possess equal civil rights. It was among others. He argued for extensive indeed the first moment in the lives of economic and social rights for the millions of people, particularly the depressed classes. In addition to depressed communities when they were constitutional rights, he eventually won likely to receive an equal treatment and the Assembly‘s support for introducing a entitlement after the adoption of new system of reservations of jobs in the civil Constitution. Gary Jeffrey Jacobson services, schools and colleges particularly (2010) insists that a nation‘s Constitution for members of Scheduled Castes and is more than a written legal document as Scheduled Tribes. These measures are it also entails the fundamental norms and popularly known as the ‘Policy of principles of a particular society. Despite Inclusion’ that makes endeavours to the fact that the Constitution of include the deprived and overlooked Independent India has borrowed several classes in the society. However it is very provisions from the varied Government questionable that to what extent these of India Acts prepared by the Britishers measures have been succeeded in their during the colonial period, the teleological tasks. In this way, Ambedkar ‘Indianess’1 Constitution reflects But it is was a valiant fighter for the cause of not the concern of this paper to traces the social justice and social equality, and thus various sources which fashioned the known as the leader, liberator, hero, constitutional development in India. The emancipator, representative of the voices central theme of this paper is to examine of the socially overlooked classes. He the fact that to what extent the Indian fought his entire life for the upliftment of Constitution comprises the vision of B. R. the depressed classes. He stated in the Ambedkarand more specifically, to Constitution Assembly, ―I know today explore the ways in which the social and we are divided politically, socially, and political philosophy of Ambedkar have economically. We are a group of warring influenced the development of camps, and I may go even to the extent of constitution-making in India. confessing that I am probably one of the leaders of such a camp. In this way, he Dr. BhimraoRamjiAmbedkar (1891-1956) explicitly mentioned his commitment for has been considered as the Chief the depressed sections of society. This Architect of the Indian Constitution. The paper is concerned with the detailed text prepared by Ambedkar offered a study of Ambedkar’s constitutional vision wide range of constitutional safeguards and its linkages with constitutional and guarantees to all citizens, for developments in India. However, before instance, socio-economic rights, civil doing that, it is important to understand liberties, freedom of religion, the the idea of constitutionalism and the abolition of untouchability and the conceptualization of Ambedkar on the same in brief. 1The word ‘Indianess’ here denotes the CONSTITUTIONALISM AND B. R. distinctiveness of the Indian context AMBEDKAR which forced the constitution-makers to evolve some provisions in the constitution Constitutionalism is different to the to address the particularities of Indian Constitution as it is merely not confined situation. to the constitutional text. It talks about www.ijar.org.in 66 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] past and future of its exercise. Weiner, a well-known constitutional Constitutionalism is not all about expert, says that ―the Indian governance as it also provides contested Constitution is more than a set of rules ideas and practices concerning justice, guiding behaviour; it is a kind of rights, development and associational charter… a set of goals and autonomy. It is commonly conceived to be expectations.... It is largely regarded a the idea that there are legal restraints on living thing which has continuously the exercise of political authority. It remained in the process of places limits on the state action and accommodating the necessity of time. conformity with the constitution becomes Ambedkar, the principal drafter of a guiding principle. B. R. Ambedkar Constitution, emphatically stated that believed that Constitution is not just a ―in a changing society there must be a written text but it can be an effective tool constant re-evaluation of old values and to ensure justice and equality to all the the Hindus must realize that if there sections of society especially to the down- must be standard to measure the acts of trodden sections of society. He wished to men there must also be readiness to achieve several objectives with the help of revise these standards. He thus strongly constitutional provisions and, in fact, believed in the fluid concept of certain provisions can be traced which constitution. While presenting the Draft clearly reflects the influence of his vision Constitution to the Constituent Assembly on the Indian Constitution - the main in 1948, Ambedkar maintained that task undertaken in this paper. However, ―there was nothing to be ashamed of in it is not necessary that both Constitution borrowing because nobody holds any and constitutionalism exist together, for patent rights in the fundamental ideas of instance, the Constitution of India gives a Constitutional. Perhaps, this is why the great importance to Right to Freedom creators of Indian Constitution took (Article 19-22). But an individual even inspiration from both domestic and does have right to choose their life foreign sources. Ambedkar had very partner freely which is most evident in commitment for the social causes, and he the large episodes of honor killings. This remained committed throughout his life fact can be further observed in the for the upliftment of deprived sections of various prevailing religion-based, caste- society. He was known as the pioneer of based and lineage-based customs and the idea of ‘social justice’ in India. He practices which have been continued to succeeded to arrange certain provisions violating the basic rights of an individual in the Indian Constitution for ensuring in the post-colonial society. justice to the oppressed sections and creating the ‘just societ’. In other words, Constitution in India has been framed in the Indian constitution challenged the such a way in the post-colonial period dominant conceptualization of justice, that it makes endeavour to fulfil those equality and welfare in the post-colonial expectations which were created by its Indian society which disregard a bulk of people while they were under the yoke of the populace who in fact needed it most. the Britishers. Post-colonialist Also, it made an effort for transforming constitutions therefore have an agenda of the hegemonic understanding of social– development and even stand for the social order in society as well as establishing change. Perhaps, this is why Myron the “just and equal” society. It can be www.ijar.org.in 67 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] argued, the process of constitution- Indian society provides no entailments, making in India was greatly shaped by social and economic rights and freedoms the beliefs of Ambedkar. In fact, several to lower castes, and in contrary, gives provisions can be traced from the Indian manifold opportunities, ―privileges and Constitution which seeks to realize the rights to the higher castes, particularly vision of Ambedkar—which will be the Brahmins. Therefore, the fact was discussed in following section. much known to the Constituent B. R. AMBEDKAR: SHAPING THE Assembly that the constitution was going to be introduced in a deeply unequal and INDIAN CONSTITUTION discriminatory society. This is probably Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, who chaired the why its member greatly ―debated and Drafting Committee, is notably drafted the constitution with the explicit considered as the “Father of the Indian purpose of dislodging the status quo. B. Constitution” and played a very pivotal R. Ambedkar, undoubtedly and role in the constitution-making. Though noticeably, was the man who borne the when the leadership in the Constituent responsibility to fight against the Assembly selected him to be the untouchability and exploitation based on Chairman of the Drafting Committee, Hindu caste system, and struggled for the Ambedkar was very pleasantly amazed at untouchables’ rights and carved for them the choice and said that ―I came into the a place in the Republican Constitution of Constituent Assembly with no greater India. aspiration than to safeguard the interest Ambedkar though managed to include of the Scheduled Castes greatly surprised certain provisions in the Constitution of when the Assembly elected me to the India for empowering lower castes, but Drafting Committee. I was more than the fact was much known to him that surprised when the Drafting Committee establishing equal human and civil rights elected me to be its Chairman. This for depressed classes was not sufficient in section is divided into two parts. This ensuring justice and welfare to them part presents a detailed analysis of the unless it would be accompanied by the provisions given in the Indian legal provisions and safeguards to uphold Constitution which are in a way or other those rights in the case of its violation shaped by the social and political and denial. He believed that providing philosophy of Ambedkar. The second and rights to all citizens would not enough last part outlines the views proposed by because the more powerful, the highly Ambedkar that could not succeed to find privileged higher classes might be able to their place in the final draft of the deny them to lower strata of society. Law Constitution. therefore should provide remedies Caste-system in India assigns particular against the invasion of fundamental sets of functions and roles even before rights. Ambedkar said in the Constituent ones birth, and also provides specific Assembly that ―all of us are aware that economic, civil, cultural and educational rights are nothing unless remedies are rights to one without a freedom to provided whereby people can seek to change. It ignores therefore an individual obtain redress when rights are invaded. capabilities, preferences and choices. In Within this background, constitutional this regard, the social order prevail in the remedies have been arranged in the
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Constitution of India. Article 32 provides three principles got noteworthy place in the right to all citizens of the country to the Preamble itself, which is known as approach the Supreme Court, if their the soul of Indian Constitution. The fundamental rights and constitutional Preamble says, ―Liberty of thought, privileges are violated by any state expression, belief, faith and worship; institution or individual. This is perhaps Equality of status and of opportunity; why Ambedkar considered this provision and to promote among them all, as the very ‘soul’ of the Constitution and Fraternity assuring the dignity of the the very heart of it. It is important to individual and the unity of the nation. note, the Supreme Court later has The principles of liberty, equality and declared that Article 32 is a part of basic fraternity could not be divorced from structure of the Constitution. each other. It can be argued that the Preamble of the Constitution of India He considered democratic politics as an undoubtedly enshrines the philosophy of effective peaceful means to emancipate Ambedkar. untouchables from the diverse patterns of exploitation prevailing since the ages as In his writing, Ambedkar had strongly well as to radically alter their way of life. pointed out a “contradictory” nature of Ambedkar thus defined democracy as a life in the Constituent Assembly, that is, better form of government than all other political life possessed a non- forms. In this context, he observed, discriminatory character whereas socio- ―You have now a way of bringing about economic life, similarly to the past, change, an improvement in your life continued to retain an unfair and conditions. That way is through political unequal nature. More specifically, he actions, through appropriate laws… You claimed that ―in political life we will be can make government provide for you recognizing the principle of one man one what are now denied - food, clothing, vote and one vote one value. In our social shelter, education… Hence instead of and economic life, we shall, by reason of resorting to rosary counting or praters structure, continue to deny the principle you should now depend on the political of one man one value. Probably, this is path that will bring you liberation. He why he incorporated the Directive further explained in the Constituent Principles of State Policy’ enumerated in Assembly on November 19, 1948 that part IV of the Indian Constitution from ―the reason why we have established in Article 36 to 51. This Part is said to this Constitution a political democracy is promote the ideals of social and economic because we do not install by any mean democracy by guiding the state to make whatsoever a perpetual dictatorship of effort for protecting the interests of any particular body of people. His strong deprived sections in society. For instance; faith in democracy can also be read in his Article 46 says that ―the State shall other writings, for instance, once he promote with special care the educational argued that ―we must not only be and economic interests of the weaker staunch in our faith in democracy, but we sections of the people, and in particular, must resolve to see that in whatever we of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled do, we don‘t help the enemies of Tribes, and shall protect them from social democracy to uproot the principles like injustice and all forms of exploitation.‖ liberty, equality and fraternity. These However it should be noted, unlike
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Fundamental Rights, the Directive he had posed the problem of Principles are merely a set of instructions representation faced by untouchable in to the various states to undertake India: ―the right of representation and particular line of actions for the benefits the right to hold office under the state of weaker sections. This fact was also are the two important rights that make stressed by B. R. Ambedkar, ―the someone a real citizen. But the Directive Principles are nothing but untouchability of the untouchables puts obligations imposed by the Constitution these rights far beyond their reach… they upon the various Governments in the (the untouchables) can be represented by country, though if the Government failed the untouchables alone. In a bid to to carry them out, no one could ask for address the concerns of Ambedkar in this specific preformation. context, a certain number of seats have been reserved in the Constitution for the Ambedkar had a staunch faith in the Schedules Castes as well as Scheduled principle of ‘secularism’ that gives equal Tribes in the legislature. Part XVI of the respect to all religions. In this respect, he Constitution deals with the special argued that ―the state shall not provision for backward classes. Further, recognize any religion as state religion. as per Article 330 and 332 certain This conceptualization of secularism numbers of seats are reserved for the proposed by Ambedkar was indeed Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes borrowed by the constitutional makers as in the House of the People and the Constitution of India gives complete Legislative Assemblies of the States freedom to its citizens to believe in any respectively. The reservations of seats for religion, and to manage their religious these sections would have not been activities (Article 25-28). Furthermore, imagined in the absence of Dr. B R the word ‘Secular’ is included in the Ambedkar. This is probably why Alistair Preamble of Constitution by the Forty- McMillan (2005) writes that ―the second amendment. Yet, they are certain retention of electoral reservation for the limits beyond which tolerance cannot go. Scheduled Castes was due to the presence For instance, the practices of caste and of a powerful spokesperson at the centre untouchability, economic exploitation and of negotiations: DrAmbedkar… was social tyranny, can no longer be member of key committees which permissible. In this way, Ambedkar discussed special representation for the vision of secularism is of a radical type, Scheduled Castes. Besides, the and rebel against any religious ill reservation has also been made in the treatment, hatred and discrimination. central and state appointments in the Ambedkar, the principal drafter of favour of the Schedules Castes and Constitution, imagined a society where Scheduled Tribes to ensure their all citizens would possess equal adequate representation in the public representation within the state services on the one hand, and on the institutions. While he failed to pass the other, to provide an additional platform provisions related to the ‘Separate to make their mark in the mainstream Electorate’ in the Constituent Assembly, society. he sought to reserve a certain number of Partha Chatterjee (2007) exhibits a seats for untouchables in the State contradictory nature of B. R. Ambedkar Legislature and the Parliament. In 1920, www.ijar.org.in 70 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] in his essay entitled, The Politics of the Ambedkar gave so much importance to Governed. He claimed that Ambedkar education. He believes that education is struggled for arranging the separate essential to moralize and socialize the political representation of the Dalits, for individuals, especially the backward preferential reservation or affirmative classes to have a cognizance of self. For action in their favor in education and him, education facilities should be government employments, and at the provided to those who are illiterate and same time, for constructing their distinct backward, and on the other, to those who culture identity going as far as conversion want to wipe out the roots of caste system to another religion - Buddhism. in order to realize the ethos of democracy Simultaneously, he also advocated ―the at the ground level. In this context, interventionist modernizing state and the Ambedkar observed: ―To give education legal perception of the modern virtues of to those who want to keep up the caste equal citizenship and secularism… system is not to improve the prospect of [Seldom has been the tension between democracy in India but to put our the utopian homogeneity and real democracy in India in greater jeopardy. heterogeneity] played out more Article 46 further, as argued earlier, dramatically than in the intellectual and emphasizes his vision which directs the political career of B. R. Ambedkar. state to take steps to promote the Chatterjee hence believes that education of the weaker sections—most contradiction is the heart of modern impotently the Scheduled Castes and politics, but he fails to underline the pre- Scheduled Tribes. The credit also goes to requisites of these measures to ensure Ambedkar for the illiteracy programmes the justice to the millions of people who and free education up to matriculation have been living on the verge of social guaranteed by the different state slavery and immeasurable exploitation. governments. Later, the ‘Right to Education’ (Article 21 A) has become the Ambedkar held that social union is a internal part of the Constitution which is necessity to blossom and flourish the earlier part of directive principles as democracy in true sense. For that, he Article 45. suggested the safeguards for the THE UNFULFILLED AGENDAS minorities are vital. In democracy, minorities must feel safe. Ambedkar Dr. Ambedkar was strongly in favor of noted that ―the suppression and “separate electorate” wherein only an exploitation of minorities in any form is untouchable (Scheduled Caste) voter the negation of democracy and would have right to cast their vote for humanism. If suppression is not stopped, untouchable candidate without being then democracy degenerates into influenced from the higher castes. This tyranny. Therefore, the provisions have electorate system was likely to empower been made to protect the cultural and untouchables more than any others since educational rights of minorities, and to here they could choose their own eliminate their fear from the dominance representative from among themselves, of majority. For example: Article 29 and thus ―constituting themselves into a real 30 are proposed to protect the interests of political force, whereas the reserved seats minorities. left open the possibility of upper caste dominated parties co-opting www.ijar.org.in 71 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] untouchables, handing out tickets during individual. This too much interference the elections and electing them, even gives one (men) privileges and power to when this ran contrary to the wishes of control not just the lives of other local untouchables. He succeeded to (woman), but also offer the justifications endow untouchables with a separate to exploit the latter at the vary stages. He electorate at Second Round Table strongly stated in the Constituent Conference (1931) held in London and Assembly, ―I personally do not this plan famously known as ‘Communal understand why religion should be given Award’, however it was later relinquished this vast, expansive jurisdiction, so as to in the wake of extensive resistance from cover the whole the whole life and to Gandhi. The demand for separate prevent the legislature from encroaching electorate was again raised in the upon that field… We are having this Memorandum prepared by Ambedkar for liberty in order to reform our social the Cabinet Mission Plan, which later system, which is full of inequities, submitted to the Constituent Assembly in discriminations and other things, which 1947. In this Memorandum, Ambedkar conflict with our fundamental rights. suggested separate electorate as a ―fool- Hence, he was strongly in the favour to proffer and knave-proof method… to disentangle the private lives from Hindu ensure real representation to the customs, and strictly limit the role of Scheduled Castes. Nevertheless, he could religion and traditions in one life to the not be succeeded once again in arranging very limited extent. Subsequently, he separate electorate for untouchables in widely criticized all those members of the new Constitution of India which was Constituent Assembly who wished to let finally adopted. the personal laws regulates the individual life. In this context, he also pursued to Besides fighting for the betterment of bring certain changes by replacing the untouchables and tribal communities in prevailing Hindu laws with western- particular, Ambedkar also sought to inspired Civil Code, which famously bring certain changes in the status of known as ‘The Hindu Code Bill’. The women as well. The fact was quite main objectives of this Bill prepared by recognized by him, the situation of Ambedkar are worth to highlight here, ― women in the Indian society had been more or less similar to, often more Firstly, it seeks to codify the law relating deteriorated than, the untouchables from to the rights of property of a deceased the ages. According to Hindu religious Hindu who had died intestate without scripts, they are assigned the inferior and making a will, both female and male. subordinate place in the patriarchal Secondly, it prescribes a somewhat Hindu society and the social evils like alerted form of the order of succession dowry, child marriage, forced marriage, among the different heirs to the property and subjugation of women among others of a deceased dying intestate. are extensively practiced. But, unfortunately, Ambedkar could not During the deliberation in the succeed to make the Hindu Code Bill an Constituent Assembly, Ambedkar integral part of the Indian Constitution questioned the excessive influence and owing to the growing and increasingly control of Hindu religion, customs and vocal opposition by the delegates. He just usages into the private lives of an www.ijar.org.in 72 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] managed to obtain a provision in the Part upliftment of deprived and down-trodden IV, that is, Article 44, which says that sections of society. He explicitly ―the State shall endeavour to secure for mentioned about swear which he took for the citizens a uniform civil code the elimination of unjust and inhuman throughout the territory off India. practices from the Hindu society, in the context of untouchables. He was the Moreover, in the context of marital representative—in the Constituent relationship, it is imperative to recall Assembly—of all downtrodden sections in article 42 maintained in the initial Draft general and untouchables in particular, Constitution, which is submitted to the and also he proudly proclaimed himself constituent assembly in 1948 by the leader of the latter. He has been Ambedkar, says that, ―the State shall considered a pioneer of the notion of endeavour to secure that marriage shall ‘affirmative actions’ and ‘inclusive be based only on the mutual consent of policies’ in India and these concepts have both sexes and shall be maintained emerged out of constant denial of equal through mutual cooperation, with the rights to specific community in society. equal rights of husband and wife as a He took the responsibility to ensure basis. The State shall also recognize that justice and dignity to low-caste of society. motherhood has a special claim on its Ambedkar‘s advocacy of the concept of care and protection. However this article constitutional morality further was later dropped from the final draft of emphasized this fact by which he the Constitution, and eventually led proposed to drastically change the Ambedkar to resign from the post of Law extremely hierarchical and unjust social Minister in the Nehru Cabinet.2 He held, order whereby every aspect of life was despite the fact that the Indian society controlled by the higher Hindu caste. desperately need to reform widely, the Congress and it leadership seemed to Indian Constitution does incorporate the maintain the status-quo. social and political philosophy of B. R. CONCLUSION Ambedkar which is most noticeably evident in the various provisions of the Dr. B. R Ambedkar, the chief draftsman Constitution. The Preamble, Part III, of the Indian Constitution, played a Part IV, and Part XVI among others are significant part in the process of determined to establish a ―just society by constitution-making. He raised the voices upholding the concepts of liberty, of those who had been long remained equality, fraternity and safeguarding the unheard, and had an intense unity of the country. As argued earlier, commitment for the social cause and Ambedkar gave much priority to the principles of equality, liberty and fraternity. For him, it is necessary to 2 Scholars though argue that were ensure equality in our social and another reasons as well which forced economic life at the earliest possible to Ambedkar to resign from the Nehru solve the problem of Hindu society. And Cabinet, for a detailed analysis see, fraternity meant a sense of common Christophe Jaffrelot, (2005), Dr. Ambedkar: Analysing and Fighting brotherhood of all Indians. Ambedkar Caste was aware of the fact that people divided , New Delhi: Permanent Black, pp. into several thousands of castes could not 114-120. www.ijar.org.in 73 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] be a nation thus empathized on social massacred by the state in Sunderbans, union. These all three principles got West Bengal, 1978), Karamchedu (six significant place in the preamble of dalits murdered, there dalit women raped Constitution. Part III of the Constitution and many more wounded in Andhra guarantees a series of fundamental rights Pradesh, 1991), Melavalavu (an elected to the citizens and some specific dalit panchayat leader and five dalits provisions have been made to safeguard killed in broad daylight in full public the special rights and interests of view, 1997), Kambalapalli (six dalits depressed classes. Most importantly, burnt alive in Karnataka, 2000), and Article 17 is unique in the sense that it Jhajjar (five dalits lynched near a police has given a blow to the century-old station in Haryana, 2003). practice of untouchability. It reflects the Even today, such incidents are continued spirit of the Constitution—the to occur in the large numbers across the determination to restore the dignity of entire nation, and often reported in the the individual and assure fraternity. daily newspapers. The Indian state and Untouchability is not only prohibited but its institution have somewhat failed to it is made punishable by law. Part IV also live up to the ethos of its democratic reflects the conceptualization of Constitution in general, and the Ambedkar on democracy that is to say, a philosophy and vision of B. R. Ambedkar political democracy should be in particular. The social relations accompanied with the social and police between the caste and sub-caste groups democracy. Part XVI reserves certain are still governed by higher Hindu castes‘ number of seats in the legislature in hegemonic principles which, in turn, keep order to provide political representation excluding the depressed classes— to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled particularly the Scheduled Castes and Tribes. Indeed, the Constitution of India Scheduled Tribes—sections from bears the imprint of his ideas. achieving the equal status and dignified On the other side, it is irony that the place in the society. In addition, the practices of exclusion—continual denial rejection of basic necessities like food, of constitutional rights and privileges, water and shelter from the other equality of opportunity and basic dominant castes greatly restricts the very necessities—as well as the vicious basic human right of these communities, exploitation of low-castes in multiple that is to say right to live, in the Indian ways in the society has resulted into the society. Certainly, the Constitution of large number of cases of dalit atrocities India comprises the vision of B. R. and violence against dalits in the post- Ambedkar, which is particularly devoted colonial India. In this context, some of to the principles of social and economic cases of dalit atrocities taken place after justice, non-discrimination, liberty, the independence are highlighted ―In equality and fraternity. However, keeping the case of discrimination against dalits, in mind the growing cases of caste-related instances of collective violence have violence and dalit atrocities, his vision is occurred at Kilvenmani (44 dalits burnt yet to be realized in the practice, and it is alive in Tamil Nadu in 1968), Belchi (14 the task of the governing elite to make dalits burnt alive in Bihar in 1977), efforts to achieve it. Morichjhanpi (hundreds of dalit refugees
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REFERENCES [13]. Mukherjee, Mithi. 2011. India in the Shadows of Empire: A legal and Political [1]. Ambedkar, B. R. 1956. Prospects of History (1774-1950), 3rd ed., New Delhi: Democracy in India. New Delhi: Critical Oxford University Press. Quest. . The Annihilation [14]. Revankar, Ratna G. 1971. [2]. Ambedkar, B. R. 1937. Indian Constitution – A Case Study of of Caste, 2nd ed., Bombay: Education Backward Class. New Jersey: Fairleigh Department. Dickinson University Press. B R [3]. Bhatia, K. L. eds. 1994. Dr. The Ambedkar: Social Justice and the Indian [15]. Rodrigues, Valerian. eds. 2007. Essential Writings of B. R. Ambedkar. Constitution. New Delhi: Deep and Deep New Delhi: Oxford University Press. Publication. Dr. B. R Debating [16]. Sinha, Jogendra. 1993. [4]. Bajpai, Rochana. 2011. Ambedkar: A Critical Study. Differences: Groups Rights and Liberal Patna: Vijay Publication. Democracy in India. New Delhi: Oxford University Press. [17]. Sontakke, Y D. 2004. Thoughts of Dr. BabasahebAmbedkar. New Delhi: [5]. Chatterjee, Partha. 2007. The Politics SamyakPrakashan. of the Governed. 2nd ed. Delhi: Permanent Black. [6]. Jatava, D R. 1965. The Political [18]. Schwarz, Henry. and Ray, Sangeeta. A Companion to Postcolonial Philosophy of B. R. Ambedkar. Agra: eds. 2005. Studies Phoenix Publishing Agency. . Oxford: Blackwell Publishing Ltd. [7]. Jacobsohn, Gary Jeffrey. 2010. Constitutional Identity. London: Harvard [19]. Shivakeri, Chandrakant D. 2004. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s Political University Press. Philosophy. New Delhi: Anmol [8]. Jaffrelot, Christophe. 2005. Dr. Ambedkar: Analysing and Fighting Publication. Caste. New Delhi: Permanent Black. [9]. Kashyap, Subhash C. 2010. Indian Constitution: Conflict and Controversies. New Delhi: Vitarta Publication. [10]. Kannabiran, Kalpana. 2012. Tools of Justice: Non-discrimination and the Indian Constitution, New Delhi: Routledge. [11]. Khosla, Madhav. 2013. The Indian Constitution. New Delhi: Oxford University Press. [12]. Mohammad, Shabbir. eds. 2008. Ambedkar on Law, Constitution and Social Justice. Jaipur: Rawat Publication. www.ijar.org.in 75 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected]
Integrated tribal development agency on constitution, Autonomous state
Pallala Rajakumar Reddy, (Research Scholar), Dept. of Political science &public add, Andhra University campus, Kakinada,A.P Abstract: This paper highlighted the origin and socio-economic conditions of tribes in India through several articles has provided for the socio-economic development and empowerment of scheduled tribes, but in reality these groups are suffering from various problems like lock of education, employment, health, land etc. Scheduled Tribes were made poor by land alienation and displacement due to the establishment of towns, Industriesbig projects etc. For the purpose of STs government of India has launched number of alleviation and welfare programmes ,but still they are backward educationally, and economically programmes on one hour is in the Universities, colleges, schools, and villages is government and NGOs should work to gather for the purpose of implementation of above programmes so that we can see full development of STs in future.
Key words: jangle jaw, economic development, materialistic instincts
Introduction Girijans. In spite of the merciless treatment by the civilized men and the The world Tribal or Adivasi (jangle jaw socio-economic perils faced by these an) brings to our mind picture of half – communities all over the world, the tribal naked men and women, with arrows and continue to live in the continents of spears in their hands, feathers in their Africa, Asia, North and South America heads, and different speaking an and Australia. unintelligible Tribes in different languages, their lives often combined A detailed and comprehensive with myths of savagery and cannibalism. review of the tribal people’s problem was Even when majority of the communities taken up on the eve of the Fifth Five year in the world kept changing their life- plan period. The main objective of ITDA styles, competed with each other and is socio-economic development of tribal developed materialistic instincts to keep communities through income generating pace with the tribal progress of the world, schemes allied with Infrastructure there were community still living in line Development Programmes and protection with their traditional values, customs and of the tribal communities against beliefs? The values and ideals of these exploitation. communities nor had the patience to The ITDA project areas are understand their life styles in Andhra generally contiguous areas of the size of a Pradesh. The main stream world branded Tehsil or block or more in which the ST them variously as native’s uncivilized population 50% or more of the total. people, aboriginals, Adivasi’s Tribal, Andhra Pradesh and Odessa have opted jangle jaw an, indigenous people exc. In for an Agency model under the India we mostly refer them as Adivasi’s/ Registration of Societies ACT and the
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ITDAs there are known as ITD Agencies enrolments of tribal students in (ITDAs).Andhra Pradesh ITDA s Educational institutions. established at 1974 in the 3) Ashram schools in tribal sub-plan Rampachodavaram.So far, 194 ITDPs Areas living in remote areas. /ITDAs have been delineated in the country.in Jammu and Kashmir though 4) Research, Information and mass no ITDP has been delineated yet, the Education studies holing area having ST population in the state seminars/workshops, Tribal are treated as covered under the TSP museum, Exhibition, cultural strategy. In eight States having scheduled programmes of artifacts on socio- areas the ITDPs/ITDAs are generally co- economic development of Tribals. terminus with TSP areas. The 5) G.I.A. under articles 275(1) of the ITDP/ITDAs are headed by Project constitution to meet the cost of Officers though they may be designated development schemes /projects for Project Administrators or Project promoting welfare of STs. Directors. The Scheduled Tribes and the The ITDPs function under the Scheduled Areas: Article 366(25) of the administrative control of commissioner, constitution of India refers to scheduled Tribal Development. Fifty percent Tribes as those communities, who are officers of the IAS cadres/state cadres scheduled in accordance with Article 342 from other department are taken on of the constitution. Thus Article says that deputation on the post of Project only those communities who have been Administrator/officer in the major ITDPs declared as such by the president through and rest from the Tribal & scheduled an initial public notification or through a Caste welfare Department. At ITDP level, subsequent amending act of parliament project advisory Board have also been will be considered to be Scheduled Tribes. constituted under the chairmanship of local tribal MLA. The state has created The list of scheduled tribes is a monitoring system right from the state to State /UT. Specific and a community Integrated Tribal Development Project declared as a scheduled tribe in a state Level. Quarterly review of Tribal sub- need not be so in another state/UT. The Plan programmes is also done by the essential characteristics, first lay down by directorate of Tribal Area Development the lokur committee. For a community to Planning. be identified as scheduled tribes are .. An overview of schemes / 1. Indications of primitive traits Programmes for scheduled tribes: 2. Distinctive culture 1) Development of Particularly 3. Shyness of contact with community at Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) large protection, survival and development of PVTGs spread over 4. Geographical isolation, and in 15 states /UTs. 5. Backwardness 2) Girls Hostels Boys Hostels for (Ex. Rampachodavaram division, Scheduled Tribes to provide Maredumilli Mandal, East Godavari facilities to ensure more
www.ijar.org.in 77 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] district, Chavadikota panchayat, in the work to gather for the purpose of village Aravalovva, Orias Current , road implementation of above programmes so and water not provided but that we can see full development of STs backwardness in the seven family’s). in future. In the constitution Fifth scheduled and sixth scheduled Tribal Scheduled tribes committees lives areas development in government in about 15% of the country’s areas, in provided. ITDA Project officers not various and forests to hills and in interested by the tribal peoples, 1/70 act accessible areas. Tribal groups are of ,education, tribal culture, economically different stages of socio-economic and development any tribal villages educational development. Will some programmes in ITDA very poor. The tribal communities have adopted a main central government Special status on stream way of life, at the other and of the tribal funding, Governor provide in the spectrum, there are certain scheduled ITDA areas. tribes, 75 in number known as particularly vulnerable tribal groups earlier turned as primitive tribal groups, References PVTGs characterized by. a) A pre- agriculture level of technology b) A stagnant or declining population c) Extremely low literacy and d) A subsistence level of economy Conclusion:
This paper highlighted the origin and socio-economic conditions of tribes in India through several articles has provided for the socio-economic development and empowerment of scheduled tribes, but in reality these groups are suffering from various problems like lock of education, employment, health, land etc. Scheduled Tribes were made poor by land alienation and displacement due to the establishment of towns, Industriesbig projects etc. For the purpose of STs government of India has launched number of alleviation and welfare programmes ,but still they are backward educationally, and economically programmes on one hour is in the Universities, colleges, schools, and villages is government and NGOs should
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Indian Constitution and Women Rights
R.J.L.P.Priyanka, III BA, Govt Degree College, Ravulapalem, E.G.DIST., AP.
Abstract :The constitution of India is a supreme law of the land. It is a sacramental document that reflects the very idea of India. The constitution of India confers special rights upon women. Dr. B.R.Ambedkar who is regarded as the chief architect of the constitution rightly observed that the progress of the country is measured by the degree of progress which women have achieved. The constitution of India guarantees the equality of rights of men and women. The constitution of India not only grants equality to women, but also empowers the state to adopt measures of positive discrimination in favour of women. In order to uphold and implement the constitutional mandate, the state has enacted various laws and taken various measures intended to ensure equal rights, check social discrimination and various forms of violence and atrocities on women. The most unfortunate thing is even women or not fully aware about their rights. It is also surprising fact that those who are familiar with these laws are mostly men. The main objective of this paper is to present some of the constitutional and legal rights available to women in India.
Key Words: Constitution of India, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Women in India, Constitutional Rights, Legal Rights
Introduction: on women. The main objective of this paper is to present some of the Women rights are the rights and constitutional and legal rights available entitlements claimed for women and to women in India. The rights available girls. Women rights are secured under to women in India can be classified into the constitution of India. Dr. B.R. two categories. 1) Constitutional Rights, Ambedkar who is regarded as the chief 2) Legal Rights. Constitutional rights are architect of the constitution rightly those which are provided in the various observed that the progress of the country provisions of the constitution. On the is measured by the degree of progress other hand legal rights are those which which women have achieved. The are provided in the various laws or acts of constitution of India also guarantees the the parliament and state legislatures. equality of rights of men and women. The constitution of India not only grants Constitutional Rights to Women: equality to women, but also empowers The following are the rights and the state to adopt measures of positive safeguards enshrined in the constitution discrimination in favour of women. In for women in India. order to uphold and implement the constitutional mandate, the state has 1. The state shall not discriminate enacted various laws and taken various against any citizen of India on the measures intended to ensure equal ground of sex. rights, check social discrimination and 2. The state is empowered to make any various forms of violence and atrocities special provision for women. In other www.ijar.org.in 79 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected]
words, this provision enables the 13. The offices of chairpersons in the state to make affirmative Municipalities shall be reserved for discrimination in favour of women. women in such manner as the State Legislature may provide. 3. No citizen shall be discriminated against or be ineligible for any Legal Rights to Women: employment or office under the state The following are the various laws and on the ground of sex. acts passed by the parliament and state 4. Traffic in human beings and forced legislatures for women. labour is prohibited. 1. Protection of Women from Domestic 5. The state to secure for men and Violence Act (2005) is a women equally the right to an comprehensive legislation to protect adequate means of livelihood. women in India from all forms of domestic violence. It also covers 6. The state to secure equal pay for women who have been/are in a equal work for both Indian men and relationship with the abuser and are women. subjected to violence of any kind— 7. The state is required to ensure that physical, sexual, mental, verbal or the health and strength of women emotional. workers are not abused and that 2. Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act they are not forced by economic (1956) is the premier legislation for necessity to enter avocations prevention of trafficking for unsuited to their strength. commercial sexual exploitation. In 8. The state shall make provision for other words, it prevents trafficking securing just and humane conditions in women and girls for the purpose of work and maternity relief. of prostitution as an organised means of living. 9. It shall be the duty of every citizen of India to renounce practices 3. Indecent Representation of Women derogatory to the dignity of women. (Prohibition) Act (1986) prohibits indecent representation of women 10. One-third of the total number of through advertisements or in seats to be filled by direct election in publications, writings, paintings, every Panchayat shall be reserved figures or in any other manner. for women. 4. Commission of Sati (Prevention) Act 11. One-third of the total number of (1987) provides for the more offices of chairpersons in the effective prevention of Panchayats at each level shall be the commission of sati and its reserved for women. glorification on women. 12. One-third of the total number of 5. Dowry Prohibition Act seats to be filled by direct election in (1961) prohibits the giving or taking every Municipality shall be reserved of dowry at or before or any for women. time after the marriage from women.
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6. Maternity Benefit Act (1961) 13. Indian Penal Code (1860) contains regulates the employment of women provisions to protect Indian women in certain establishments for certain from dowry death, rape, kidnapping, period before and after child-birth cruelty and other offences. and provides for maternity benefit 14. Code of Criminal Procedure (1973) and certain other benefits. has certain safeguards for women 7. Medical Termination of Pregnancy like obligation of a person to Act (1971) provides for the maintain his wife, arrest of woman termination of certain pregnancies by female police and so on. by registered medical practitioners 15. Indian Christian Marriage Act on humanitarian and medical (1872) contain provisions relating to grounds. marriage and divorce among the 8. Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Christian community. Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition 16. Legal Services Authorities Act (1987) of Sex Selection) Act (1994) prohibits provides for free legal services to sex selection before or after Indian women. conception and prevents the misuse of pre-natal diagnostic techniques for 17. Hindu Marriage Act sex determination leading to female (1955) introduced monogamy and foeticide. allowed divorce on certain specified grounds. It provided equal 9. Equal Remuneration Act (1976) rights to Indian man and woman in provides for payment of equal respect of marriage and divorce. remuneration to both men and women workers for same work 18. Hindu Succession Act or work of a similar nature. It also (1956) recognizes the right of women prevents discrimination on the to inherit parental property equally ground of sex, against women in with men. recruitment and service conditions. 19. Minimum Wages Act (1948) does not 10. Dissolution of Muslim Marriages Act allow discrimination between male (1939) grants a Muslim wife the and female workers or different right to seek the dissolution of her minimum wages for them. marriage. 20. Mines Act (1952) and Factories Act 11. Muslim Women (Protection of Rights (1948) prohibits the employment of on Divorce) Act (1986) protects the women between 7 P.M. to 6 A.M. in rights of Muslim women who have mines and factories and provides for been divorced by or have obtained their safety and welfare. divorce from their husbands. 21. The following other legislation’s also 12. Family Courts Act (1984) provides contain certain rights and safeguards for the establishment of Family for women: Courts for speedy settlement of 1. Indian Divorce Act (1869) family disputes. 2. Parsi Marriage and Divorce Act (1936) www.ijar.org.in 81 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected]
3. Special Marriage Act (1954) of crime against women were reported in the country during 2015. The crime rate 4. Foreign Marriage Act (1969) under crimes against women was 5. Hindu Adoptions and reported as 53.9 in the same period. Now Maintenance Act (1956). the question arises whether the laws ensures that women get their rights? 22. National Commission for Women Act And that their human rights are (1990) provided for the protected? There is still a long way to go establishment of a to answer such questions. National Commission for Women to study and monitor all matters relating to the constitutional REFERENCES: and legal rights and safeguards of women. 1. https://edugeneral.org/blog/polity/ women-rights-in-india/ 23. Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition 2. Crime in India-2015, NCRB, and Redressal). Act (2013) provides Ministry of Home Affairs protection to women from sexual harassment at all workplaces both in public and private sector, whether organised or unorganized. CONCLUSION:
Thus there are several constitutional and legal rights to women. Even though there are various constitutional provisions and legislations contain several rights and safeguards for women, it has been found that each and every right of women is being violated in one or another form. The crime against women in India is increasing at a faster rate. Few crimes which are recognised as crime against women are adultery, child marriage, female feticides, trafficking and prostitution, domestic violence, eve teasing, acid throwing, fraudulent marriage, exploitation at work place, rape, kidnapping and abduction for different purposes, murder, sexual harassment, dowry deaths, etc. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) had predicted that growth rate of crime against women would be higher than the population growth by 2010, which was found to be true. A total of 3,27,394 cases www.ijar.org.in 82 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected]
Ambedkar and Social Justice in Contemporary India
Dr. K. Gowtam Kumar, Reader in IRPM, K.G.R.L. Degree College (A), Bhimavaram Abstract: The life of Baba Saheb Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar (14 April 1891 - 6 December 1956) is a saga of his rise from dust to glory and from the lowest social hierarchical order to the position of the ‘architect of Indian Constitution’ for which the University of Columbia conferred on him the degree of LL.D (honoris causa) in 1952. It also provides insight into his long and often bitter struggle for breaking the tyranny of caste in Hindu society and raising the position of the down-trodden.
Key words: Hindu society, down-trodden, social system
The life of Baba Saheb Bhimrao have liberty to read, write, worship and Ramji Ambedkar (14 April 1891 - 6 also to pursue a vocation and own December 1956) is a saga of his rise from property. In the absence of freedom and dust to glory and from the lowest social equality, the social system encouraged hierarchical order to the position of the confinement and compartmentalization. ‘architect of Indian Constitution’ for As a result, there was complete absence which the University of Columbia of fraternity besides equality and liberty - conferred on him the degree of LL.D the trinity which constitute social justice (honoris causa) in 1952. It also provides in the views of Dr. Ambedkar. He firmly insight into his long and often bitter believed that justice couldn’t be conceived struggle for breaking the tyranny of caste in absence of any of the three. in Hindu society and raising the position In this special commemorative of the down-trodden. volume of ‘World Focus’ on Dr. B. R. Dr. Ambedkar’s vision of Social Ambedkar & Social Justice: National and Justice emanates from his quest for a Global Perspective, an effort has been ‘Just Society’, which is based on the idea made to explore Dr. Ambedkar’s ideas for of a casteless society. It was his constant bringing out the essence of his visionary search for a just social order, incredible conceptualization of social justice and hard work and unflinching belief in self their relevance in contemporary national help and self dependence that look him to and global scenario through an analysis the infallible heights where he had to be of his various theoretical propositions, acknowledged and recognized by one and which are dispersed in his writings on all as the crusader against the social evils, caste system, Hindu social order, the liberator of the down trodden and equality, liberty, fraternity, human also the architect of the Indian rights, social democracy, law, religion, the Constitution. The Indian society of Dr. State and the minorities. The aim is to Ambedkar’s time denied equality by locate these ideas on a systematic terrain granting special privileges to Brahmins as well as to critically assess them in the and other higher castes and denying the contemporary context. shudras the right to own property and to educate and protect them. They did not www.ijar.org.in 83 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected]
Recalling Dr. Ambdekar’s poorest of the poor as they are. For this, struggle for Social Justice, both in pre- jobs and education are extremely Independent India, and in the important as Ambedkar Constituent Assembly and more emphasized. But, for justice Krishna importantly to ponder over its continued Iyer, equality and homogeneity – the two relevance today is always a rewarding pillars of social justice would remain a far and satisfying exercise. A modest effort cry if the landless Dalit is not given land, has been made here to put together the the penniless pariah is not given immensely relevant yet highly opportunity to start small scale factories, comprehensive views of Dr. Ambedkar the bonded woman is not liberated from has brought out by the contributors to servitude so as to enable her to pursue a this volume so as to construct his vision vocation and the Dalit youth, often of social justice in the contemporary illiterate and disorganized and drawn national and global perspective. into delinquent and destitute situations, are given effective opportunities to enter The road to social justice in the the professional echelons and public opinion of Ambedkar was to be led by services in large numbers. education. He firmly believed in the efficacy of education as a panacea for the Regarding Indian society, social evils and injustice because the Ambedkar felt that, if the lower strata of problem of social injustice in India is not the Indian society which is interested in only economic but also cultural. Here, it blowing up the caste system is educated, is not enough to house the the caste system will be blown up. Giving untouchables/deprived sections of society, education to those who want to blow up feed them and then leave them to serve caste system will improve prospect of the higher classes as was the ancient Democracy in India and put Democracy ideal of this country. It was even more in safer hands. To him, it is very necessary to remove from their important to educate the poor masses and minds/psyche that feeling of inferiority develop in them a genuine sense of which has shunted their growth and political consciousness and constitutional made them slaves others and to create in temper. Their education means the them a consciousness of significance of maintenance of democracy and political life for themselves and for their country order in peace and justice’. He thought of which they have been cruelly robbed so highly of education that in his tri- by the Indian social order. Ambedkar worded slogan – Educate, organize, and was convinced that nothing could achieve agitate, he gave top priority to it. this better than the spread of higher Ambedkar fought against caste education and the fact remains as true in and injustice. He struggled hard to present times as it was when Ambedkar create human rights. He wanted to wrote. vitalize the conscience of the people and Social justice – a categorical to mobilize the masses in India, for equal imperative for establishing social human rights. His ultimate aim of life harmony can be achieved only by a was to establish a real social general development and empowerment democracy. To him, ‘A Democratic form of the masses of the underprivileged and of Government presupposes a Democratic deprived sections of our society, the form of Society. The formal frame-work www.ijar.org.in 84 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] of Democracy is of no value and would indeed be a misfit if there was no social democracy’. The political leaders never realized that Democracy was not only a form of government; it was essentially a form of Society.
Reference:
[1] Novak, Michael, “Defining Social Justice,” First things, 108. December 2000, p. 11. [2] J.S. Mill, Utilitarianism, Chapter 5. [3] Willoughby, Social Justice, p.7. [4] See, for instance, J. Rawls, A Theory of Justice, Cambridge, Mass: Harvard University Press, 1971, in which he talks indiscriminately about justice, distributive justice and social justice. [5] Michael Novak, op. cit, p.11. [6] See, for instance, J.Y. Calvez and J. Perrin, The Church and Social Justice, London: Burns and Oates, 1961, Chap. 6; and L.W. Shields, The History and Meaning of the Term Social Justice, Ph.D. Diss., University of Nottre Dame, Indiana, 1941, Chap. 3. [7] See for details, Miller David, Principles of Social Justice, Cambridge, Harvard University Press, 1999, pp.1-20.
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Some Reflections on Ambedkar and Democracy and on Need to Transform Ourselves
Dr. M. R. Raju, Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Medical Trust, Pedaamiram, Bhimavaram
Analysis
I am pleased to learn that you are having accomplishments. And having achieved, a two day Seminar on Ambedkar and he dedicated himself for the wellbeing of Indian Democracy. I find that we have a all. long way to go to fulfill the ideals of I am happy to see many bright students democracy globally. In the light of especially girls coming out from low increasing number of democratic income families. SKSD Kalashala is a countries, the old saying “Yadha Raja good illustration of this. However, the Tatha Praja” needs to be restated as condition of government Primary schools “Yatha Praja Tatha Raja”. Hence the and high schools are in a sad shape and I challenges before us, demand changes feel that there is enormous brain drain among ourselves to the extent that we taking place. This requires the need to expect from others. In earlier days, there educate parents as well. Unfortunately, was considerable stress on freedom and the statue of Ambedkar is becoming liberty as illustrated by the impressive increasingly political mainly due to Statue of Liberty in the East Coast of ignorance of people at large instead of a America presented by the French constant reminder to improve the present government. situation and I hope that the Center for Mahatma Gandhi stressed the Ambedkar Studies would take an active importance of responsibility and he felt role in improving the present situation that freedom naturally follows with especially in rural areas. responsibility. Several American On responsibility, I find the saying of the humanistic psychologists suggested the poet Kalidas, “Own the world but disown need to install a Statue of Responsibility yourself” is very appropriate. The atomic- in the West Coast of America. like power that is inherent in all of us can Whenever I see a statue of Ambedkar, it be released only when we discover and reminds me the importance of education disown the hidden self in all of us. and relevance of Buddhistic ideas since Accomplished leaders like Ambedkar, Babasaheb chose neither Hinduism nor Mahatma Gandhi, scientists like Salk Christianity but Buddhism. The root who discovered polio vaccine, medical meaning of the word education is to bring doctors like Albert Schweitzer are some out the best from us. And the heart of of the examples of people that took Buddhism is only to end the fishiness of responsibility for the world while most of selfishness which becomes possible by us are preoccupied with our freedom taking appropriate responsibility. without taking the proper responsibility. Ambedkar had to work very hard under trying circumstances for his admirable www.ijar.org.in 86 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected]
Let me share a secret I found in myself. I found that I have opinions on every thing and judgmental on the actions of others. These are the signs of people that love their freedom without taking the needed responsibility. When once we take such responsibility, we find that we gradually dissolve our judgments and opinions on others. We need to watch ourselves and grow confidence. Ambedkar is a good example. We have to take this challenge. I also hope that you would consider discussing the importance of Responsibility in democratic countries in general and India in particular during the present Symposium.
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Dr. Ambedkar’s Thoughts on Democracy
Smt. K. Vani, Lecturer in Commerce, S.K.S.D. Mahila Kalasala UG & PG (A), Tanuku
Smt. G. Aruna Kumari, Lecturer in Economics, S.K.S.D. Mahila Kalasala UG & PG (A), Tanuku
Abstract: The main goal of the study is to analyze and evaluate critically the idea of B.R.Ambedkar, the great Indian constitution maker, regarding Indian democracy and to capture the position of Ambedkar on issues whose relevance is even felt at present. Analyzing the idea of democracy of Ambedkar in details, it can be found out that Ambedkar had unshakeable faith in democracy. In his conception of exploitation less society, democracy has an extra-ordinary role which he defined as ‘one person, one vote'; and 'one vote, one value'. Democracy means empowerment of any person for participating in the process of decision-making relating to her/him, democracy means liberty, equality and fraternity - Ambedkar's definition of democracy had such a tone. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar is known as staunch protagonist of Democracy in his belief and action. He was the emancipator of the untouchables, a champion of the Depressed and suppressed classes, a great scholar with highest intellectual integrity, a far sighted statesman a legal luminary with extraordinary acumen, a Constitutional expert of exceptional learning, a true nationalist with great ability and mettle and above all, a staunch protagonist of Democracy in true spirit.
Introduction: against State. Dr. Ambedkar differed with Marx on the means of realizing the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar gave objectives and purposes enshrined snuggle and channelized his all efforts to entwined with socialism. He advocated realize Democracy in India. Dr. democratic means and believed that Ambedkar revolted against though democratic means are slow far Chaturvarnya, Caste and Untouchability more enduring stable and permanent. system to establish democracy in India. Historical evidences put fourth Dr. Ambedkar defines democracy the truth that Chaturvarnya, Caste and as “a form and a method of Government untouchability system has adversely whereby re volutionary changes in the affected the Indian society. Vedas, economic and social life of the people are Smritis, Shrutis, Upnishadas has brought about without bloodshed”. propagated inequality. Since ancient Dr. Ambedkar believes in times there was no associated life in constitutional way of life. In his concept Hindu society. As the theory of Caste and of Democracy he wants the Government Chaturvarnya system is based on graded to be responsible for bringing inequality. The Indian society was revolutionary changes in economic and divided in many Castes. The social life of the people without bloodshed downtrodden castes were treated whereas Marxism believed in bloodshed innumanly. People from Ati Shudra
www.ijar.org.in 88 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] castes were not allowed to live in the Dr. Ambedkar wanted Social village’s a long with upper castes. Their democracy to cherish in India. He said Shadows were considered as polluted one very categorically and they were treated as untouchables Political Democracy cannot be successful where as some animals were touchable unless there lies at the base of it of Social for them and their were worshiped and democracy. considered as pious. Untouchables were He warned the nation in this direction not allowed for access to water from that, “on the 26th January 1950, we are village. Such inhuman treatment was going to enter into the life of given to untouchables. contradictions. In politics we will be Therefore it can be stated that there was recognizing the principle of one man, one no healthy social relationship amongst vote and one value. In our social and Indians since ancient times. Dr. economic life, we shall by reason if our Ambedkar being true democrat wanted social and economic structure continue to associated life amongst the people in deny the principle of one man, one value. India n democracy. How long shall we continue to live this life of contradictions? How long shall we Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar had continue to deny equality in our social very explicitly stated the conditions and economic life? If we continue to deny which are very much it for long, we will do so only by putting necessary for the successful working of our political democracy in peril. We must democracy. They can be stated in brief as remove this contradiction at the earliest under. possible moment or else those who suffer from inequality will bloro up the Equality structure of political Democracy which Two party system this Assembly has so laboriously built up.” Equality in Law and Administration Dr. Ambedkar was of opinion that political Democracy must change its Constitutional Morality form to social Democracy in order to No Tyranny of Majority develop state socialism. Moral order Ambedkar says, ‘I have referred to the wrong ideologies which in my Public Conscience judgment have been responsible for the Dr. Ambedkar considered the failure of parliamentary democracy. All condition but public conscience as political societies get divided into two essential condition for successful working classes – the rulers and the ruled. If the of democracy because without public evil stopped here, it would not matter conscience democracy cannot be much. But the unfortunate part of it is successful. It is the will of the people that that the division becomes stereotyped makes healthy democratic atmosphere. and stratified so much so that the rulers are always drawn from the ruling classes and the class of the ruled never becomes the ruling class. People do not govern
www.ijar.org.in 89 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] themselves, they established a democracy, for democracy without a government and leave it to govern them, party system is unconceivable. There forgotten that is not their government. should be a regular party system.” That being the situation parliamentary Ambedkar preferred that at least two democracy has never been a government parties are essential in democracy for its of the people or by the people, and that is fructification. “A party is necessary to why it has never been a government for run government. But two parties are the people. Parliamentary democracy, not necessary to keep government from being with standing the paraphernalia of a a despotic. A democratic government can popular government, is in reality a remain democratic only if it is worked by government of a hereditary subject class two parties – a party in power and a party by a hereditary ruling class. It is those in opposition.” vicious organization of political life which Conclusion: has made parliamentary democracy has not fulfilled the hope it held out the A detailed analysis of his life and common man of ensuring to him liberty mission reveals that Ambedkar held the property and pursuit of happiness.’ basic and fundamental norm, to be equality- social, economic and political, Dr. Ambedkar was one of the from which he proceeded to lay down a admirers of freedom and self-government collection of ‘ought’ propositions; in this of India. And he stood for a democratic hierarchy of ‘ought’, the initial system of administration. Dr. Ambedkar fundamental ‘ought’ on which the preferred the elected rulers or the validity of all the other ultimately rests, government to hereditary rulers for a the fundamental norm seems to be the good and democratic administration. He social equality, the justification for the emphasizes that the administration must rest of the legal reforms and changes he be free of corruption and dishonest ways persistently fought for. It was a society of administrating things. He says, full of social inequalities in which everyone must share the responsibilities Ambedkar was born. The humiliation he for the successful working of the experienced in such an in egalitarian democratic institutions in the land, society bore on imprint in all thought his otherwise; the feelings of public welfare life. Thus, Ambedkarism is of great and co-operation would not be relevance to Indian society even today in strengthened. achieving social justice, removal of He says, “Democracy cannot untouchability, in establishing equality function in the absence of basic civil and freedom and true democracy. liberties – which enables the community Democratic socialism is the key note of to vindicate itself against the state his political thought and furthermore, the right to criticize, if it is constitutionalism is the only way to to be effective, must include the right to achieve it. In conclusion, it can be said organize opposition through political that this research gives closer and parties. Representative democracy is analytical insight into the thoughts of essentially procedural. It is characterized Ambedkar and provides an answer to the by free expression, free parties and free question of whether we, the Indians, election.” To Ambedkar, “Political parties achieve religious tolerance, human are indispensable in parliamentary equality and freedom, true democracy,
www.ijar.org.in 90 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] gender respect in the society, justice and peace in the light of political philosophy of Ambedkar whose memory will ever guide the nation on the path of justice, liberty and equality. References:
1. B.R.Ambedkar: Writing and Speeches, vol-9 ,p-168. 2. Lokhande. G. S., B.R. Ambedkar: A study in social democracy p-23 3. see, Dr. Ambedkar, article: Essential condition precedent for the successful working of democracy 4. B.R.Ambedkar: Writing and Speeches, Vol-1 .p-409 5. Kshirsagar Ramchandra Kamaji, Political thought of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, Intellectual publishing house, New Delhi, 1992, p.53.
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Women Empowerment in the era of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar1
N.Bhagya Lakshmi, LLM, pursuing PhD at Andhra University, Visakhapatnam
Abstract : “Unity is meaningless without the accompaniment of women. Education is fruitless without educated women, and agitation is incomplete without the strength of women”. Baba Saheb. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar popularly known as Baba Saheb has enormous idea and personal experience on India’s social, economic and political structure. He is champion of women’s rights and he discussed a number of problems of Indian women and sought for their solutions in Bombay Legislative Council and made significant efforts to lead the society on the path of Liberty, Equality and Fraternity. He was first Indian to break down the barriers in the way of progression of women in India2. The encouragement of Dr.Ambedkar to empower women to speak boldly was seen when RadhabaiVadale addressed a press conference in 1931. He strongly advocated for family planning measures for women in Bombay Legislative Assembly. He laiddown the foundation of concrete and sincere efforts by codifying the commonCivil Code for Hindus and other sections of the Indiansociety.He emphasized that there could not be any progress without women.Maternity Benefit Bill was introduced by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar in 1942, during his tenure as Labour Minister in Governor General’s Executive Council. While drafting the constitution of India, Dr.Ambedkar was the prime movers of the provisions related to the benefit of women. Empowering women is the main motto of the development department because an empowered mother with child makes the bright future of any nation. It is not merely a feel of greater extrinsic control, but also grows intrinsic capacity, greater self-confidence and an internal transformation of one’s consciousness that enables one to overcome external barriers to accessing resources or changing traditional ideology3. Women’s empowerment is very essential for the development of society
1 N.Bhagya Lakshmi, LLM, pursuing PhD at Andhra University; contact No.9849528129 e-mail: [email protected]. 2 http://www.legalservicesindia.com/article/article/dr-b-r-ambedkar%C3%A2%E2%82%AC%E2%84%A2s-role- in-women-empowerment-1611-1.html accessed on 09/03/2017 3Ibid Pg.162
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Introduction: established exclusively for women in the country. To bring more girl children, Women empowerment is especially from marginalized BPL empowering the women to take their own families, into the mainstream of decisions for their personal dependent. education, Government has been Empowering women is to make them providing a package of concessions in the independent in all aspects from mind, form of free supply of books, uniform, thought, rights, decisions, etc. by leaving boarding and lodging, clothing for all the social and family limitations. It is hostilities, mid-day meals, scholarships, to bring equality in the society for both free by-cycles and so on. male and female in all areas 4 . Women empowerment is very necessary to make Constitutional Provisions: the brilliant future of the family, society Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was not only and nation. the father of Indian Constitution; he was In India, to empower the women, a great freedom fighter, political leader, first it needs to kill all the demons killing philosopher, thinker, economist, editor, women’s rights and values in the society social reformer, revivalist of Buddhism such as dowry system, illiteracy, sexual and was first Indian to break down the harassment, inequality, female barriers in the way of advancement of infanticide and domestic violence against women in India. He stated that women women, rape, prostitution, illegal should be given all round development trafficking and other issues. Gender more importantly social education, their discrimination in the nation brings well-being and socio-cultural rights. He cultural, social, economic and educational emphasized that each and every section differences which push country back. The of Indian women be given their due share most effective remedy to kill such devils and it is a must to maintain and protect is making women empowered by ensuring dignity and modesty of women. the Right to Equality mentioned in According to the provisions of the the Constitution of India5. Education to Indian Constitution, it is a legal point to women is the most powerful instrument grant equality to women in the society in of changing their position in the society. all spheres just like male. Women are Education also brings about reduction in given a top place in India from the inequalities and also acts as a means to ancient time however they were not given improve their status within the family. empowerment to participate in all areas6. In order to encourage education They need to be strong, aware and alert of women at all levels and to dilute every moment for their growth and gender bias in the provision and development. Empowering women is the acquaintance of education, schools, main motto of the development colleges and even universities were department because an empowered
4 http://www.merinews.com/article/the-rise-of- ambedkarism/15895702.shtml accessed on 6K. H. CHELUVA RAJU’s Dr. B. R. AMBEDKAR 12/03/2017 AND MAKING OF THE CONSTITUTION: A Case 5Afro Asian Journal of Social Sciences Volume V, No Study of Indian Federalism The Indian Journal of 3. Quarter III 2014 ISSN: 2229 – Political Science Vol. 52, No. 2 (April - June 1991), 5313http://www.onlineresearchjournals.com/aajoss/ pp. 153-164 Published by: Indian Political Science art/157.pdf accessed on 12/03/2016 Association
www.ijar.org.in 93 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] mother with child makes the bright globalization brought increased future of any nation.It is not merely a inequalities, resulting in loss of feel of greater extrinsic control, but also livelihoods, erosion of natural resources grows intrinsic capacity, greater self- and with it decreased women’s access to confidence and an internal water, fuel, fodder and traditional transformation of one’s consciousness survival resources. It also brought new that enables one to overcome external forms of exploitation-displacement, barriers to accessing resources or tourism, sex trade and retrenchment to changing traditional ideology7. Women’s mention a few. Women are being pushed empowerment is very essential for the into less productive sectors. Increased development of society. pressure on rural resources accelerated migration to urban areas in search of There are number of legislations livelihood 9 . People from backward conferring equal rights for both women regions, tribal communities, and men. These Legislations have been disadvantaged castes and the displaced guided by the provisions of the communities were being pushed against fundamental rights and Directive the wall. Women in such countries Principles of State Policy. Laws to shouldered the brunt and this improve their condition in matters phenomenon was labeled feminization of relating to wages, maternity benefits, poverty 10 . Part III of the Indian equal remuneration and Constitution consisting of Articles 12-35 property/succession have been enacted to is the heart of the Constitution. Human provide the necessary protection in these Rights which are the entitlement of every areas. Ambedkarplaced down the man, woman and child because they are foundation of concrete and genuine human beings have been made efforts by codifying the common Civil enforceable as constitutional or Code for Hindus and other sections of the fundamental rights in India. The framers Indian society. For providing social of the Constitution were conscious of justice to women, the most important the unequal treatment and step has been codification of some of the discrimination meted out to the fairer sex personal laws in India which create the from time immemorial and therefore major challenge in this perspective. included certain general as well as The most critical component of specific provisions for the upliftment of women’s empowerment is found to be the status of women. education. It leads to improved economic Dr. Ambedkar tried an adequate growth, low fertility rate, health and inclusion of women’s right in the political sanitation and an awareness of factors lexis and constitution of India. i.e. that disempowered women. Work Article14 - Equal rights and opportunities participation rate and political in political, economic and social spheres. participation also grows in women’s 8 education . The expansion of the market economy and industrialization and 9 http://www.academia.edu/7670886/Ambedkarism- Relevance_in_Present_Indian_Society accessed on 12/03/2016 7Ibid Pg.162 10 Arya, Sudha, Women Gender Equality and the 8Article: Indu Malhotra Empowerment of Women in State, Deep and Deep Publications, New Delhi. Nyayadeep Journal 2000.
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Article 15 prohibits discrimination on the them awareness on various issues in ground of sex. Article 15(3) enables relation to their empowerment. affirmative discrimination in favour of Judiciary Role: women. Article 39 – Equal means of livelihood and equal pay for equal work. It is observed from the various Article 42 – Human conditions of work judgments that not only the legislature and maternity relief. Article 51 (A) (C) – but judiciary also plays a very vital and Fundamental duties to renounce important role in case of women practices, derogatory to the dignity of empowerment. Judiciary empowers the women. Article 46 – The state to promote women by its both traditional and by its with special care, the educational and activist role. The traditional role of economic interests of weaker section of judiciary is to provide justice through people and to protect them from social interpretation of laws. Some times injustice and all forms of exploitation. through the wide interpretation of Article 47 – The state to raise the level of provision of various legislations and also nutrition and standard of living of its the provision of constitution judiciary is people and the improvement of public able to empower the women. Another role health and so on. Article 243D (3), 243T of judiciary is the activist role which is (3) & 243R (4) provides for allocation of popularly known as “Judicial Activism’’13. seats in the Panchayati Raj System. Where there is no specific law for a specific offence in that case judiciary Like Ambedkar, The National Policy applies its activist power. As our society for the Empowerment of Women 200111, is dynamic, the need of the society is also also admits, “The underlying causes of dynamic. Because of the rigidity of law or gender inequality are related to social because of the long and time taking and economic structure… and practices. procedure of enactments of laws by Consequently, the access of women, legislature, it is unable to keep pace with particularly those belonging to weaker the fast changing society. There is always sections including Scheduled Castes/ a gap between the advancement of the Tribes Other Backward Classes and society and the legal system prevailing in Minorities … to education, health, and it. This is sometimes causes hardship and productive resources, among others is injustice to the people. inadequate. Therefore, they remain largely marginalised, poor and socially In Govt. of Andhra Pradesh V excluded”. The Government of India has P.B. Vijayakumar14 Supreme Court held declared 2001 as Women’s Empowerment that reservation to the extent of 30% year. This policy12 has set certain clear- made in the State Services by the Andhra cut goals and objectives. The policy aims Pradesh Government for women at upliftment, development and candidates was valid. The Division Bench empowerment in socio-economic and of the Supreme Court emphatically politico–cultural aspects, by creating in
13Singariya M.R., 2013 “Dr. B. R. Ambedkar: As an 11Government of India: The National Policy for the Economist” International Journal of Humanities Empowerment of Women 2001, Department of and Social Science Invention, Vol. 2, Issue (3), pp Women and Child Development, Ministry of Human 24-27. Online available www.ijhssi.org Volume 2 Resource Development, New Delhi, 2001 Issue 3 ǁ March. 2013ǁ PP.24-27 12Ibid 141995 (4) SCC 520
www.ijar.org.in 95 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] declared that the power conferred upon trying its best to break and do away with the State by Article 15(3) 15 is wide all such traditional norms that look down enough to cover the entire range of State upon women, has given judgments to activity including employment under the prevent violence against women and to State. The power conferred put them equally as men in the society18. by Article 15(3) is not whittled down in Conclusion: any manner by Article 1616. Indian women have progressed a Now women empowerment is a lot in various parts of their life although burning issue of our country. And this they are still suffering from various social concept is in progress. So, there are so evils like dowry, eve teasing, rape etc. It many areas of women empowerment is a fact that in the glorious development where there is no law for the protection of Indian society, the Indian women have of women, in that case judiciary is the march forward to the developmental last hope. Because only judiciary can give process and somewhere treated equally justice by applying its activist power like with their male counterparts but it is yet Visakha 17 case where the question to be realized by the people of India that regarding the sexual harassment of women should have given the equal women in working places was raised and rights and opportunity with men so as to on this area there is no law at that time establish a shining India where women judiciary by judicial activism declared can live freely and equally irrespective of some guidelines for the protection of religion, caste, creed, gender etc. women from sexual harassment of women in working place.In case of compensation jurisprudence also judiciary is relaised need to compensate the victim but in criminal law there is no such specific law regarding the compensation jurisprudence. So, it is clear that through judicial activism judiciary is also able to provide progress in the area of women empowerment.The Supreme Court has understood the very fact that women empowerment is the most indispensable route to Country’s development and cannot be ignored except at the stake of country’s deterioration. If almost half of the population of country is suppressed and inactive, then, it is obviously foolish on the part of us to think that the country will ever develop in the next few centuries also. Therefore, the court is 18 Latest Judgments by Supreme Court of India on Rights of Women - 15Constitution of India iPleaders http://blog.ipleaders.in/supreme-courts- 16Ibid on-womens-rights/#ixzz42gfOPeNe accessed on 17 AIR 1997 SC 3011 22/03/2017
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Human Rights and Caste Atrocities Against Dalits
K. Sumitha, Junior Lecturer of English, S.K.S.D Mahila Kalasala Tanuku, West Godavari
Abstract: Human rights are rights inherent to all human beings. Whatever our nationality may be, to which place we belong, our religion, gender, language, colour, or any other status. We are equally entitled to our human rights without discrimination. But who is giving authority of human right to a dalit.They are unpleasantly insulted with words and their works. The fault is invisible, in fact we can’t even find a fault but at the end they are harassed because they are “UNTOUCHABLE”. Being from depressed classes the dalits are cruelly treated.Inspite of giving protection to their own national or ethnic origin dalits are beaten and punish arshly.Humanrights can be seen in constitution rights. In human rights we can say about cast evaluation, equal rights for every human being, equal rights in the society with others but not by seeing “CAST”. Is there any person who is standing for dalit when they are in trouble? For being untouchable they don’t have human right in education. The financial background was one of the factors for untouchability; they do judge people by seeing their financial back ground. The dalits are asking for self-dignity, self respect is more important than Anything else. Abolish the practice of untouchbility.The positive way should be shown in Education system and in public services Untouchables still suffer from egregious cast Discrimination.. The various reforms movement did not pay much attention to countering cast system and untouchable. KEYWORDS:- Untouchable, Financial, Self-diginity, Self-respected, Discrimination, Cruel.
INTRODUCTION:- a Hindu hierarchical classes structure with roots in India dating back thousands The history of human rights is a history of years. In descending order, the caste of people’s struggles for liberty and for system is considered of Brahmins enforcement of fundamental rights. In (priests), kshyatriyas (warriors) vaisayas every sphere of life in country after (Farmers), shudras (laborer-artisans) and country, these rights are being violated. the dalits who are considered so polluted Human rights can be defined as those they are beyond caste traditionally, caste rights, which are inherent in human determined by birth defined whom one nature and without which human being could marry and the occupation one could can’t live with dignities as human beings pursue. WHO ARE THE DALITS? *Although Indian law contains extensive Dalits, literary meaning” BROKEN protections against such discrimination PEOPLE” or “OPPRESSED” in Hindi, the government still fails to enforce its are the lowest members of the Hindu domestic and international obligation to caste, system in india.The caste system is ensure dalit right www.ijar.org.in 97 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected]
*Dalits still “endure severe social against scheduled castes and scheduled discrimination” and face “inter-caste tribes. The Act is popularly known as violence, boned-labour and POA, the SC/ST Act, the Prevention of discrimination of all kinds”. Atrocities Act, or simply the Atrocities Act. DEGRADING DALITS:- Article 17 of Indian Constitution seeks to In the light even we have extensive abolish 'untouchability' and to forbid all constitutional provisions, plans policies, such practices. It is basically a "statement different safeguards like social, economic, of principle" that needs to be made educational and culture and service, still operational with the ostensible objective dalits are the victims of discrimination, to remove humiliation and multifaceted murder, rape, mentally harassed. harassments meted to the Dalits and to There is no growth for a dalit because he ensure their fundamental and socio- belongs to lower class. And they are not economic, political, and cultural rights. benefitting from the fruits of growth. DR.AMBEDKAR PLAYED AN 1. All dalits are not equally the victims of IMPORTANT ROLE IN ABOLISHING cast atrocities. Their traditional low UNTOUCHABLE:- ritual status, along with appalling In 1948, Dr.Ambedkar published a book poverty and political disenfranchisement, entitled the untouchable. In this book he are factors which added fuel to the fire. makes a thorough study of untouchability 2. The atrocities against the dalits are the using his knowledge of the customs and result of a single cause but aren’t caused practices of different tribes and races in by a host of factors such as land disputes, the world. traditional low status, illiteracy, poverty, For eradication of untouchability low wages, use of public facilities and so Dr.Ambedkar suggested a four-pronged on. attack the first, one is should share in 3. Neelima(2008) Has listed four primary political power and in the administrative causes of atrocities against dalits:- in proportion to their percentage in the population a) Land disputes. Secondly, the fair share in the economic b) Lack of civic facilities. life of the country. Thirdly, there should c) Untouchable ability-related crimes. be no criminal custom. Fourthly there should be a mass movement for d) Self-assertion. encouraging intercaste marriages, Because of being dalit untouchable because untouchability cannot be was the main cause for the development eradicated without abolishing the caste of the lower class sections. system. PREVENTION OF ATROCITIES:- A pragmatist to core, Dr.Ambedkar believed that establishment of a The Scheduled Castes and Tribes democratic society in India would be (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, possible only when the untouchables and 1989 an Act of the Parliament of other weaker sections of society would be India enacted to prevent atrocities
www.ijar.org.in 98 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] given the opportunity to enjoy basic 1. Stop insulting dalits. human rights. 2. Change the mind set of higher castes. Dr.Ambedkar opens his argument with 3. Legal provisions should be the statement that the government is the implemented without any fear. most important field for the exercise of individual’s capacities and so no person 4. Penalize the village which observe should be denied the opportunity of social boycott against dalits. active participation in the process of REFERENCES: government. He adds that the representation of opinions is not a 1. Artatrana Gochhayat, (2013) sufficient condition for popular HUMANRIGHTS VIOLATION AND government there should also be THE DALITS.A Theoretical background representation of persons. with special reference to odisha. “CAST FEELING IS A BACKWARD 2. Bina. B.Hanchinamani (2001), THINKING, INDIVIDUAL IDENTITY (American university Washington college IS IMPORTANT, NOT CAST BASED of law) HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES OF IDENTITY IS IMPORTANT” DALITS IN INDIA. He wants to see the personality growth to 3. Dr.P.V Rathnam SOCIO-POLITICAL full extent. This doesn’t mean the PHILOSOPHY OF DR.B.R AMBEDKAR personalities of a few people will develop and other remain undeveloped, there will be a permanent class of masters and a permanent class of servants, he explains this by saying that the ideal government should be arranged in such a manner that every citizen can assume any role in the administration UNTOUCHABLES had been suffering for ages. If one agree with a definition of slave as giving by Plato, who defines him as one who accepts from another the purpose which controls his conducts, the untouchables are really slaves. CONCLUSION:-
Although India has made measurable progress in terms of protections afforded to dalits since independence, dalits still suffer invidious discrimination and mistreatment at the hands of upper cast members and law enforcement officials. Even legal protection is implementation the dalits remain India’s “BROKEN PEOPLE” www.ijar.org.in 99 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected]
Electoral Reforms in India
Kum. K. Durga Prasanna, Lecturer in Mathematics, SKSD Mahila Kalasala Ug & PG (A), Tanuku
Abstract : Electoral reforms Have been an issue of intense debate in contemporary India, particularly in the last two decades. The recent growth in electoral malpractices and the fact that none of the serious proposals for electoral reforms have ever got implemented have kept the issue alive. This has been a cause for concern for the election authority, political parties and the public in general. In view of this, it is appropriate to examine the working, on the basis of experience, and ascertain the distortions and search for legal, administrative measures to eliminate them.
Introduction: democracy better than many other institutions (e.g. the office of the Speaker, The Constitution of India the UPSC or middle rung judiciary). This provides for a permanent and is not to deny that there have been a independent body, the Election number of serious complaints of Commission of India, and vests in it the irregularities and partisanship involving ‘superintendence, direction and control of the Election Commission but merely to the preparation of electoral rolls for the recognise that the Election Commission conduct of all elections to Parliament and has norm or where corruption begins to the Legislature of every State and of from the top. The district and lower level elections to the offices of the President functionaries are, of course, a different and Vice-President’ (Article 324). The matter. In a number of States the Commission may have one or more than partisanship of the local functionaries has one member to be appointed by the become a regular feature. The paper President, i.e., the Executive. The Chief discusses the major areas of electoral Election Commissioner enjoys a reform, the measures taken by the constitutional protection in manner of Election Commission and various removal from the position, which proposals that have been put forth in requires parliamentary impeachment various forums for ensuring free and fair [Article 324(5)]. Apart from the elections and representatives of the Commission, the Constitution or the law- elected candidates. does not provide for any other permanent structure to administer the elections. Election Financing Administrative Officers at the State and In spite of the recommendations district level are assigned additional to curb the role of money power, the charge to Ibok after the elections; some of ground realities have defined a contrary them are temporarily deputed to the movement, especially as regards the Election Commission during the period of ceiling of expenditure. The Indian the general elections. Electoral Law, under Section 77 of the In balance, this semi-autonomous Representation of the People Act, 1951, and technically weak institutional requires that all candidates should apparatus has served the Indian disclose the correct account of all the
www.ijar.org.in 100 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] expenditure incurred in connection with within 30 days of the publication of the elections and that they are bound to results. All accounts of election submit the accounts between the day on expenditure and other expenses are to be which they have been nominated for filed by the candidate with the concerned election and the day of declaration of the District Election Officer (DEO), as result thereof. Furthermore, Section stipulated under Rule 89(1) of the 123(6) of the Act defines incurring of Conduct of Election Rules 1961 and each excessive expenditure in elections as a District Election Officer is required to corrupt practice. It also lays down a limit send his/her report about the filing of on expenditure on elections. The spirit of such accounts to the Election the above section can further be seen in Commissioner's office. On receipt of this Section 78(1) of the Representation of the report from the District Election Officer, People Act, 1951. The maximum amount the Election Commission scrutinises the of election expenditure, which may be account. In cases of default, it issues incurred by the candidate in various notification to the candidates about their States, has been laid down under Rule 90 disqualification under section 10A of the of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961. Representation of the People Act, 1951, It specifies that mere non-disclosure of but before doing so, the Election expenditure is not a corrupt practice but Commission provides ample opportunity becomes so as it amounts to an to the candidates to represent their cases. expenditure in excess of the prescribed Valid for 3 years from the date of the amount and contravention of Section 77 order, the disqualification notification (1& 2) of the Representation of the under Section 10A has to be published in People Act, 1951, which falls within the the official gazette. ambit of Section 123 Clause 6. In the final analysis, one of the In addition, failure to furnish an most pressing needs of Indian democracy account of election expenses within the today is a certain level of institutionalised time limit prescribed under Section 77(6) funding of elections. But this should, as of the Act, 1951 can lead to far as possible, be in kind, to assist better disqualification of membership to the monitoring and implementation. Parliament or State Legislature, which is Furthermore, it should be adequate, for enforced by the President of India after its purpose would otherwise be defeated; seeking the opinion of the Election as, the main purpose of state funding is Commission. The President here acts in not only to reduce the cost of elections his/her capacity of a constitutional but also to curb illegal ways of political authority, to discharge constitutional financing of elections, which are at obligations. But, according to Section 10A present rampant. In fact, state funding of this Act, the Election Commission will certainly ensure a healthy democratic itself has the right to disqualify a functioning of parties, however limited candidate, if it is satisfied that s/he has the extent may be (Kumar, 1999). failed to submit an account of the expenses incurred within the specified Democracy within the Party time limit and in the manner required by While pronouncing his order in the Act. In fact, under Section 77 of the the Janata Dal symbol case on October Act, the election returns are to be filed 16, 1994, the Chief Election
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Commissioner, T.N. Seshan, warned the processes of the nation’s governance political parties that if they failed to hold unless its own internal organisation and their organisational elections according functioning are fully democratic. The to their constitution, necessary action provision of the respective party would be initiated according to the constitutions must be strictly followed Election Symbols (Reservation and and elections to constitute various party Allotment) Order. Thereby their status of bodies should also be held regularly. The being legitimate democratic parties could dismal record of almost all our parties in be in jeopardy. this regard dictates the need for regulating and disciplining by enforceable Some of the political parties law with provision for deregistration of particularly the Communist parties had defaulting parties. reacted sharply and questioned the authority of the Chief Election However, democratic principles Commissioner to interfere in internal and proprieties apart, it would be party matters. In any case, these parties, necessary to examine whether the Chief when in power, are not perceived as Election Commissioner had exceeded his votaries of democracy and free elections. authority in this case or whether his The fundamental purpose of holding warning can be upheld at the altar of national elections is to find a set of legality. Article 324 of the Constitution persons who can represent the people, vests the authority of superintendence, make laws and govern the country direction and control of elections in the democratically. Elections provide a Election Commission, which in fact is legislature and a government that are very wide and comprehensive. representative and draw their legitimacy Section 29A of the from the consent of the people. Representation of the People Act, 1951, A necessary concomitant of provides for the registration with the representative democracy is the Election Commission of political parties institution of political parties. After the on application. The application for insertion of the 10th Schedule in the registration has to contain inter alia the Constitution, political parties have also names of party officer bearers, the received constitutional recognition. It is numerical strength of party membership, usually the parties that fight elections memorandum or rules and regulations and even after the electoral battle is over, (or the Constitution) of the party. The the roles of the government and the Commission has been authorised to call opposition are assumed by the political for 'such other particulars, as it may parties. Governments in our democratic deem fit'. The decision of the Commission polity have got to be party governments. in the matter of registration 'shall be final'. Under Section 170 of the same Act, The role of political parties in the jurisdiction of the civil courts to elections and thereafter certainly question the legality of any decision has necessitates that any reforms in the been barred. The conduct of Election political system or in the electoral Rules, 1961 issued under the processes would have to start with the Representation of, the People Act'1951, political parties. No party should be provides for the Election Commission eligible to participate in the democratic specifying and assigning the symbols
www.ijar.org.in 102 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] under Rules 5 and 10. The Election Parliament to consider and legislate to Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) tackle the problem. The Commission, in Order 1968, as modified by the Election its declared statistics of August 1997, Commission in exercise of the powers revealed that nearly 40 Members of the under Article 324 of the Constitution, Parliament present were involved in Section 29A and of the Representation of criminal cases pending against them, People Act the 1951 and Rules 5 and 10 whereas nearly 700 Members of the of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961 Legislative Assemblies, out of the 4072 inter alia lay down the regulations for members, were involved in criminal casei recognition of political parties for and trials were pending against them purposes of allocation of symbols. (The Tribune, 21 Aug. 1997). The Election Commission suggested a series Since the 1990s, the Commission of steps including the filing of has donned a proactive role in its efforts declarations by political parties with the to cleanse the electoral system. The Commission that they would not field Commission has ordered repolls at candidates and give tickets to those who polling stations and whole constituencies, were convicted as criminals, even if if the original poll were vitiated. The imprisoned for a period less than five Model Code of Conduct was strictly years for a cognizable offence, in any enforced and scheduled and bye-elections election. Another suggestion to enable to the Legislative Assemblies of some of the Commission to crack the whip was the States were postponed for breach of that powers be given to it to de-recognise Code by the party in power in the and de-register political parties, which concerned State. The election law was were found to field such convicts, who also implemented effectively for were imprisoned for five years or more, disciplining the candidates and parties. as candidates for the Parliament or The effective enforcement of election law Assembly elections, after giving them an and Model Code of Conduct by the opportunity to be heard. The Commission election authorities had salutary effects felt that the nomination form should in the conduct of elections in the mid- contain a column seeking information if nineties. Elections were more peaceful the candidate had ever been jailed and its and less expensive, compared to the duration, criminal cases pending against elections held during the eighties. Seshan the persons, and, if the person had been deserves the full credit for improving the charge-sheeted for any offence. In the functioning of the election machinery in event of any person providing false the country. He was regarded by the information or suppression of any common man as having interest, beside information, not only should the election power and position in cleansing the be set aside, but it should be cancelled as electoral process and setting up well, and the person should be punished conventions in the interest of free and with imprisonment up to 5 years or fine fair elections. His example deserves or both. emulation by his successors. Criminalisation of Politics In a significant order to curb the criminalisation of politics, the Election Criminalisation of politics is one Commission on 28th August 1997 passed of the most urgent issues for the an order, which prohibited convicted
www.ijar.org.in 103 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] persons, regardless of whether an appeal the Act, it would make it mandatory for a was pending in a higher court, from person convicted by a Court of Law and contesting elections. The Election sentenced to imprisonment for six Commission felt that though Section 8 of months or more to be debarred from the Representation of the People Act, contesting elections for a period totaling 1951 provided that any convict would the sentence imposed plus an additional stand disqualified from contesting six years (The Indian Express, 4 Sept. elections to the Parliament and 1997). Legislatures for six years, those on bail or Recommendations on Electoral with an appeal pending were being Reforms: The Law Commission and allowed to contest. The Commission had the Election Commission referred to Article 324 of the Constitution and judgements of High Courts (Madhya The Law Commission of India, in Pradesh High Court in the Purshottam its 170th Report, came out with several Kaushik v. Vidya Charan Shukla Case, proposals relating electoral reforms, the Allahabad High Court in Sachindra which are worth considering. One of the Nath Tripathi v. Doodnath Case and the proposals relate to the introduction of the Himachal Pradesh High Court in Vikram List System to cover the 138 additional Anand v. Rakesh Singh Case) on Section seats to be created in the Lok Sabha, 8 of the Representation of the People Act. taking its total strength to 688. The It had directed the States, Union suggestion made was to allocate the 138 Territories and Chief Electoral Officers seats to various States or territorial units that disqualification of candidates under and fill them from previously published section 8 of the Representation of the lists of candidates nominated by People Act would commence from the recognised parties, in proportion to the date of conviction, irrespective of whether total number of votes polled by each the person was out on bail. The Election party in a State/territorial unit. The Commission had asked the Returning object was twofold: (a) to secure Officers to get affidavits from candidates representation for a party which secures mentioning whether they were convicted a large number of votes, but fails to win a by a court of law, beside the date of proportionate number of seats and (b) to conviction, the nature of offence, the enable eminent persons who do not like punishment imposed and the period of to contest to be thus elected. imprisonment, on a prescribed form (The It is not uncommon that a party Indian Express, 29 Aug. 1997). secures a large number of votes polled in The Commission, in continuation a State but still does not win a single seat of its desire to curb the menace of in the general election. The List System criminalisation, recommended to the helps such a party to some extent. It will Government sweeping changes in the benefit the leading parties, more than the election laws, suggesting that a person smaller ones. Although the List System is sentenced for more than six months desirable, the suggestion to increase the should be debarred from contesting in strength of the Lok Sabha needs to be elections for a period of six years and carefully considered. above. It further suggested that by clubbing Sections 8(1), 8(2) and 8(3) of
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The Law Commission's functioning of every political party has suggestion for amending the Tenth been long felt. In 1994, the Justice V.R. Schedule of the Constitution to Krishna Iyer Committee suggested a law checkmate unprincipled defections and for the regulation of political parties. The desertions under the guise of a 'split' is Supreme Court has, in several decisions, most welcome. The Commission suggests pointed out the futility of prescribing a that once a candidate's elected to a party, ceiling on election expenses, without s/he will remain thus till the dissolution removing the existing loopholes in the of the House or the end of his/her law (Law Commission of India, 1988). membership and the concepts of 'split' The Commission suggests the and 'merger' should have to be given up. deletion of explanation-I to sub section If one or more members decide to leave a (1) of Section 77, which permits a party and join another, they should political party or any other person resign their membership of the House interested in a candidate to spend any forthwith, and seek a fresh mandate on amount of money on his/her election and the ticket of another party. Another recommends the insertion of a new suggestion that the disputes arising section, Section 78-A dealing with the under the Tenth Schedule be decided by maintenance of accounts by recognised the Election Commission under Article political parties. It favours a partial state 103 or 192 as the case may be, and not by funding of the election expenses incurred the Speaker/Chairperson of a House is by the parties and for this purpose equally good, as some of the Speakers suggests the insertion of Section 78-B, have exercised their power under para 6 providing for the free supply of copies of of the Tenth Schedule in a partisan the electoral rolls, diesel and petrol and manner. reimbursement of the expenditure on Yet another important suggestion microphones and loudspeakers. Although made by the Law Commission is the state funding to a much larger extent is amendment of the Representation of the desirable, financial constraints stand in People Act, 1951, which now provides for the way (Rap, 1998). disqualification on the grounds of The Election Commission is in conviction, for certain offences. The favour of the expenditure incurred by a proposal is that on the framing of charges political party to be included in the by a criminal court for any of the election expenses of a candidate, for specified offences, the accused should purposes of ceiling on election expenses. remain disqualified till s/he is acquitted. In fact, the Commission has been The Election Commission holds the same insistently pressing for such a reform, view. There are few connected right since the mid-seventies. The suggestions aimed at checking the entry Supreme Court of India has also, time of criminals into Legislatures, which are and again, commented on the inadequacy good but not sufficient. of the existing provisions in this regard. The need for a law mandating the The role of money power definitely, political parties to maintain regular disturbs the level playing field in the accounts of income and expenditure and election process between contesting have them audited every year .and to candidates and contesting political have an authority to oversee the parties. There is a great need to ensure
www.ijar.org.in 105 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] that the role of money power in elections rules for disciplinary proceedings and and in the election arena is curbed impose suitable penalties on Election significantly, if not, totally eradicated. Officers, who are on deputation to the Commission and subject to its control, The Election Commission is in superintendence and discipline, if found favour of empowering itself to fix a guilty of acts of omission and commission ceiling on election expenses before every while performing election duties, as general election. The Election mentioned in Section 13 CC of the Commission, which is in touch with the Representation of the People Act, 1950 ground realities, with the political system and Section 28 A of the Representation of in the country and with the elections and the People Act 1951. electioneering that takes place in various constituencies, is best equipped to fix a Government vs Election Commission ceiling on election expenses for various In an effort to curb the growing constituencies, before every general menace of criminalisation of politics, the election. Delhi High Court, in a landmark In 1998 the Election Commission judgement (November 2000 and as a came out with a proposal that the result of a Public Interest Litigation filed procedural delay in invoking Section 8A, by a group of committed individuals, the automatic disqualification of a person under the aegis of Association for found guilty of corrupt practices, should Democratic Reforms), has reinforced and be plugged through suitable amendments strengthened the Election Commission's to the Representation of the People Act, desire to cleanse the political system 1951. ridden with criminal elements. The Court has asked the Election Commission of The Commission felt that Article India to inform voters about the criminal 324 of the Constitution should bi background of candidates contesting amended to provide that (a) there should elections to the Parliament and be a maximum of two Election Legislative Assemblies. The Court Commissioners, along with the Chief observed, "The Election Commission shall Election Commissioner; and (b) the secure to the voters information whether method of appointment and the a candidate is accused of any offence constitutional protection after punishable with imprisonment"( appointment, should be the same for the Judgement of the High Court of Delhi, Chief Election Commissioner and other C.W.P. No. 7257 Of 1999, dated 02nd Election Commissioners. The Election November on Criminalisation of Politics). Commission reiterated and urged early action on the need to have an When the Union Government independent Secretariat on the lines of appealed against the judgement to the the Lok Sabha and the expenses of the Supreme Court, the latter upheld the Commission should be 'charged' to the Delhi High Court's verdict. The Supreme Consolidated Fund of India. Court's judgement is based upon two premises: the citizen's right to know and The Election Commission of informed voting under Article 21 and reiterated its proposal that the the Election Commission's power and Commission should be specifically duty under Article 324 to superintend empowered under the statute to frame
www.ijar.org.in 106 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] elections. What Court has done is to (likely to be passed in the monsoon merely fill "the void in the absence of session), lest the Election Commission's suitable legislation" pending action by the guidelines which are far more stringent legislature. The Supreme Court has be implemented. It is thus perceived that merely reminded the Election though the ostensible purpose of the Commission that the Constitution gives it legislation is to implement the Supreme wide-ranging powers. Unfortunately, the Court judgement, there is reason to present controversy is being construed as worry that the actual object of the a fight between the Supreme Court and proposed law would be to dilute it in a the Election Commission on the one manner which negates its impact. The hand, and Parliament on the other, over reform bill doesn't address many other who has the right to legislate on electoral issues such as election financing and reforms. Pursuant with the Court's corruption, anti defection laws, reforms Judgement, the Election Commission in electoral machinery, which have been issued its order requiring each candidate long debated and call for urgent reforms. to furnish information to the Returning Unfortunately, the political elites don't Officer on (i) past criminal convictions, seem to be serious with the agenda for (ii) pending criminal cases carrying a pursuing serious electoral reforms. In the conviction of more than two years, (iii) absence of such initiative and vigour, the assets, (iv)liabilities (especially public institution of civil society alone can bring dues) and (v) educational qualifications. about a sea change by electing representatives whose efforts find Subsequently, the government fruition in validating a vivacious prepared a draft poll bill which when democracy (Kumar, 2002). passed by the Parliament could override the Election Commission's guidelines. Conclusion The draft bill is silent on the need for The Commission continues to candidates to declare their assets, carry forward the mantle of activism liabilities and educational qualifications. which it had donned during Seshan's era. This bill also provides for Among the notable achievements in "disqualification of those candidates recent times have been the raising of the against whom there are two separate expenditure limit to Rs. 15 lakhs for a criminal proceedings concerning heinous Parliamentary Constituency and Rs.6 offences charged by a court at least six lakhs for an Assembly Constituency, months prior to filing the nomination". It ensuring inner party democracy among further stipulates that a candidate will all the recognised political parties, issuing have to furnish information as to the order on breakaway factions and whether he/she has been accused of any awarding national and State recognition offence punishable with imprisonment to breakaway groups, effectively for two years or more in a pending case in enforcing the Model Code of Conduct, which a charge has been framed by a from the day of the announcement of the court. elections by the Election Commission, The bill is a complete dilution of barring the entry of criminals in the what the Supreme Court had electoral arena . It is, therefore, worth pronounced. In fact, the government was observing that the Commission has in the forced to come out with this draft bill last decade moved largely from being a
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'procedural' institution to a 'proactive' have begun to represent the urges of civil one, thereby discharging the onerous society much more effectively than responsibility that has been entrusted to before. it by the Founding Fathers of the Finally, the success of the Constitution and the people of India. reform(s) would depend upon the The role of the Election working of and adherence to the system Commission of India in conducting free on the part of the electoral machinery at and fair elections, has become more all levels – the political parties, the crucial for the consolidation of India's candidates and the electorate. An democracy. This could be realised by independent press and enlightened public strengthening the hands of the Election opinion have no substitute and their role Commission and plugging those loopholes is crucial in pushing through reforms. that permit the Executive to interfere REFERENCES with the working of the Commission. An Election Commission that is able to Basu, Abhijit (1994). 'Process of assert its role and stand up to the Elections under Seshan', political pressures exerted by the Democratic World, 33(22), pp. 6- Government of the day would 7. significantly contribute to enriching the Baweja, Harinder (1994). 'Assembly quality and content of Indian democracy. Elections: Crisis on the Cards', In the light of the four decades of India Today, 19(19), October 15, experience and experimentation with pp. 114-5. parliamentary democracy and with a view to strengthening the commitment of the Bhandari, Kusumlata (1988). Indian system to democratic values and Electoral Reforms. New Delhi: principles, a review of the organisation Election Archives, and functions of the Election Commission Butler, David (1991). India Decides has today become necessary. Elections 1952-1991. New Delhi: Political Institutions encompass Living Media India Limited. three kinds of entities – elected Ganesan, K. (1991). 'Making a choice: On institutions of the state such as Some Alternative Electoral Parliaments, non-elected institutions of Systems', Frontline, April 27 - the state, such as the bureaucracy, police, May 10, pp.45-48. judiciary and armed forces and the organisations of civil society, such as the Gill, M. S. (1997). 'Role and Functioning press and myriad professional and other of Election Commission of India', associations. In the final analysis, it Indian Journal of Public would appear that the process of Administration, 43(3), July - institutional decay is ending and a phase September, pp. 416-20. of institutional reinvigoration has begun, Jain, Kiran and P.C. Jain (1998). especially because India's civil society has Chawla's Elections: Law and become much more powerful than it was Practice. New Delhi: Bahri before. Additionally, the institutions with Brothers. overseeing responsibility, namely the Election Commission and the Judiciary,
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Kashyap, Subhash C.(1992). 'Urgent Need for Electoral Reforms',
Monthly Public Opinion Survey, 37(10), July, p. 21. Kaviraj, Sudipta (1997). 'General Elections in India', Government and Opposition, 32(1), pp.3-24. Kumar B. Venkatesh (1999). 'Funding of Elections (Case for Institutionalised Financing)', Economic and Political Weekly, 34(28), pp. 1884- 1888. Venkatesan, V.(1994) 'Positive Bill: For Elections Free', Frontline, 11(24), December 2. Venkatesh, V.(1996). 'Step forward: Promise of Change in the Electoral System', Frontline,13(16), pp.29-30. Yadav, Yogendra (2002). 'Free and Fair (EC shows the way in Gujuart)', Times of India, August, p. 12.
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Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and his Contribution to the Indian Constitution
Dr. L.V.K.Prasad, Asst. Professor, Dr. B.R.Ambedkar College of Law, Andhra University
Abstract: Ambedkar oсcupied a towering position as a leader of the backward classes. But he was also one of the makers of modern India and the architect of its present constitutional order. His observations on constitutional morality, made at a critical juncture in India’s social and political life, were of the utmost significance not only for the backward classes or the minorities, but for all Indians.The Constitution was designed to serve the needs of a modern society. It looked to the future rather than the past. Ambedkar did not wish to take India back to its past, but to take its place to the forefront of the comity of free and independent nations of the modern world.
Introduction: The Indian Constitution lawyer Ambedkar. He was law minister was adopted by the Constituent Assembly in the Interim Union government, and on that day in 1949. The Constitution also Chairman of the Drafting Committee was adopted on 26th January 1950, when of the Indian Constitution. India was declared a Sovereign, Ambedkar said that he came into Democratic Republic. In 1976, by a the Constituent Assembly with no Constitutional Amendment, India became greater aspiration than to safeguard the a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, interests of the Scheduled Castes. “I had Democratic Republic.The Constituent not the remotest idea that I would be Assembly was inaugurated in December called upon to undertake more 1946. The Draft of the Constitution was responsible functions. I was therefore published in January 1948. Over eight greatly surprised,” he said, “when the months, the Constitution was widely Assembly elected me to the Drafting discussed at different forums in India, Committee. I was more than surprised after which the draft was discussed when the Drafting Committee elected me within the Constituent Assembly, article to be its Chairman”. by article, between 15th November 1948 and October 1949. There were a total of Ambedkar oсcupied a towering 7635 amendments, of which 2473 were position as a leader of the backward discussed inside the Assembly before the classes. But he was also one of the Constitution was adopted.The makers of modern India and the architect Constituent Assembly had more than 300 of its present constitutional order. His members, including nine women. As observations on constitutional morality, many as 12 members had law degrees, made at a critical juncture in India’s including Jawaharlal Nehru, Vallabhai social and political life, were of the Patel, Rajendra Prasad, and Bhimrao utmost significance not only for the Ramji Ambedkar.The most crucial backward classes or the minorities, but member of the Assembly was the brilliant for all Indians.The Constitution was www.ijar.org.in 110 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] designed to serve the needs of a modern Dr. Ambedkar was honoured step society. It looked to the future rather by step. At the first step he was honoured than the past. Ambedkar did not wish to as the member of the Constituent take India back to its past, but to take its Assembly. At the second step he was place to the forefront of the comity of free honoured as the first ‘Law Minister’ of and independent nations of the modern the independent India and at the third world. step he was honoured as the chairman of B.R. Ambedkar and Drafting of the the ‘Drafting Committee’. Because of his Constitution bright characteristics, as his deep and vast study, tremendous knowledge, On 29th August, 1947 passing amazing command of an English one resolution the Constituent Assembly language, expertness in explaining the appointed a ‘Drafting Committee” with subject and ideal patriotism, he had got the seven members including Dr. these pleasant honours.“Thought Ambedkar for preparing a draft of the provoking and provocative, his life is Constitution of the independent India. It highly, instructive to everyone who is said when drafting of the Constitution yearns for human dignity and equality in of India was embarked upon, Pandit human relation in society.” These words Nehru and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel of one of his biographers describe essence thought of inviting and consulting Sir of what he stood for and what he Guor Jennings, as internationally known achieved. constitutional expert of those times. Dr. Ambedkar had a charismatic When approached for advice in the personality. He was pragmatic par matter Gandhiji is reported to have told excellence, who never allowed himself to them why they should be looking for be swayed by abstract ideas and ideals. foreign experts when they had the right He strongly believed that political within India an outstanding legal and independence cannot assure either social constitutional expert in Dr. Ambedkar solidarity or national integration in the who ought to be entrusted with the role absence of social justice. Being a which they badly need as he so richly and democratic socialist, he propagated that rightly deserved. The Law Minister Dr. fundamental rights have little meaning to Ambedkar was appointed the Chairman people in the absence of social democracy. of the Drafting Committee. The seven members, including the Chairman of the Dr. Ambedkar was one of the ‘Drafting Committee’ were as follows: very few Indian Statesmen-politicians who actively participated in the 1) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Chairman discussions on Constitutional matters 2) N. Goipalswami from the Monsford Reforms (1919) to the Cabinet Mission (1946) proposals.He was 3) Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyas the first and foremost leader of the 4) K.M. Munshi depressed classes, and the struggle of the depressed classes for Human Rights and 5) Saijio Mola Saadulla socio-political equality from the twenties 6) N. Madhava Rao and to the fifties of the 20th century is woven round his name Being elected Chairman 7) D.P. Khaitan of the Drafting Committee, Dr. www.ijar.org.in 111 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected]
Ambedkar played a key role in viewing on the basis of stability and the structure of the government and the responsibility.However, the Draft forms of the Constitution. Constitution he recommended that the The Round Table Conference parliamentary of executive must have more responsibility to stability. As The Round Table Conference was regards the character of the Constitution, a landmark in the history of the Indian it was Federal in form and Unitary in Constitution. Being invited to discuss on Spirit”. It established a dual polity with constitutional matters Dr. Ambedkar the Union at the Centre and the States at demanded in dependence and hoped that the periphery, each endowed with the people of India would be able to sovereign powers to be exercised in the redress their grievances by political field assigned to them respectively by the power and this political power will come Constitution. to them under the ‘Swaraj’ constitution. Concept of Federalism At the first session of the Round His concept of federalism meant Table Conference, he gave a clear that the State was a federation in warning to the British Government, normalcy, but unitary in emergency. saying: “I am afraid it is not sufficienty realised that in the present temper of the Centre Was Made Strong country, no Constitution will be workable In the Draft Constitution Dr. which is not-acceptable to the majority of Ambedkar offered more powers to the the people. The time when you were to Centre and made it strong. Some choose and India was to accept is gone, members of the constituent assembly never to return. Let the consent of the criticised him on the ground that since people and not the accident of logic be the Dr. Ambedkar postulated – the rights and touchstone of your new Constitution, if values of each individual and the you desire that it should be worked…” development of each province and each– He advocated for a government village, it was contradictory of his part to which was a responsible government make the Centre strong. Justifying the formed by the representatives of the provisions for a strong Central authority people. Dr. Ambedkar did not want to Dr. Ambedkar said that he made the impose a Constitution on the Indians, but centre strong not only to ‘save minorities he submitted that the opinion of the from the misrule of majority’ but also people about the manner in which they “for it is only the centre which can work desired to be governed must be accepted. for a common end and for the general interests of the country as a whole.” “The best government rests on the people, and not on the few on persons Equality of Opportunity and not on property, on the free In the Draft Constitution the development of public opinion and not on “Fundamental Rights”, prescribed were authority.In the constituent Assembly justifiable in the Court of Law. Of all the Dr. Ambedkar played a very significant rights, Dr. Amebedkar observed role with a lofty responsibility of drafting “Equality of Opportunity” as the most the Constitution. He examined the important one. Regarding the functioning of a democratic government constitutional remedies, he characterize www.ijar.org.in 112 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected]
Article 32 as the very soul of the caste and class, but also into regions, Constitution and the very heart of it. To religions, languages, traditions and him, fundamental rights would mean cultures. Therefore, a strong Centre was establishment of equality and liberty in indispensable to maintain territorial order to reform our social system, which integrity and administrative is so full of inequalities discriminations, discipline.However, in the Draft and other which conflict with our Constitution he suggested the acceptance fundamental rights. of Hindi in the ‘nagiri’ script as the National Language of India.A pragmatist Directive Principles Of State Policy to the core, Ambedkar believed that in The Directive Principles of State the absence of economic and social justice Policy contained the positive obligations political independence would not bring of the state towards its citizens. The about their social solidarity or, national Directives were meant to ensure social integration. He advocated the abolition of and economic democracy which was privileges on the basis of caste or status secured by the provisions of fundamental and vigorously fought for the liberty and rights in a written Constitution.Dr. dignity of the individual. It the same Ambedkar said: “What are called time, he was equally force-full in his Directive Principles is simply another advocacy of the unity of the nation. name for Instruments of instructions to Conclusion: the legislature and the executive…as to how they should exercise their power.” The contribution of Dr. Ambedkar in Indian Democracy is not to Constitution: A Dynamic Document be forgotten. As a chairman of the The Constitution is a dynamic Constitutional Committee he gave a document it should grow with the growth shape to our country of a complete of the nation and should suit the Sovereign, Democratic and Republic changing needs and circumstance. So Dr. based on adult franchise. Baba Saheb Ambedkar urged the necessity of Ambedkar’s name will be written in amendment. “The Draft Constitution has golden letters in the history of India as a eliminated the elaborate and difficult creator of social justice. This fact is procedures such as a decision by a doubtless. He was not only the man of convention or a referendum. The power age and builder of the Constitution but of amendment lies with the legislatures, also the creator of social justice and Central and Provincial …”Dr. Ambedkar betterment of the downtrodden. He was was doubtful on the Constitutional one of the few sons in the History of mortality of the legislatures. So he India that he can be said to the gift of wanted to incorporate the froms of Indian freedom movement. If Mahatma administration in the Constitution. Gandhi gave direction and lesson of National Integration morality then Baba Saheb gave shape to social aspect without exploitation. In true In the Draft Constitution Dr. sense of the word, he gave democratic Ambedkar prescribed single citizenship, a and anti caste aim. He spent his whole single judiciary and uniformity in life for the betterment of the poor, fundamental Laws to integrate Indian exploited, untouchables and troubled society which was not only divided into classes. Thus, Dr. Ambedkar’s www.ijar.org.in 113 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] contribution to the Indian Constitution is undoubtedly of the highest order. Indeed he deserved to be called the “father or the Chief Architect” of the Indian Constitution. References 1. Dr. Dhyanraj Kashinath Gaikwad ‘Rajwansh’ – The Miraclous Great Man’ – Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar. 2. Lalit. K. Sahay – Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: Man of Millenium. 3. B.J. Bhandutia – Champion of Human Rights. B.R. Ambedkar. 4. Veridemder Grover, Bhimrao Ramji Ibid., Mirac.: A Biography of his vision and ideas. 5. G.S. Lokhande, Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar – A Study in Social Democracy. 6. S.N. Mandal, “B.R. Ambedkar: His Thoughts and Observations” 7. Dr B.R. Ambedkar Biography—Life and Profile, http://www.culturalindia.net, accessed on February 5, 2011. 8. Jatava, D.R., (2001), Dynamics of Ambedkar Ideology, Sublime Publication, Jaipur. 9. Ambedkar, B.R., http://www.mapsofinda.com/htm, accessed on January 25 , 2011. 10. Ambedkar: the Architect of the Indian Constitution, http://www.sankalpindia.net, accessed on February 5, 2011.
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The Role of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in Women Empowerment
S.M.Maheswari, Lecturer in English, Sri.Y.N.College (A), Narsapur
Abstract : Women constitute about one half of the global population, but they placed at various disadvantageous positions due to gender difference and bias. They have been the victims of violence and exploitation by the male dominated society all over the world. Our society is a tradition bound society, where women have been socially, economically, physically, psychologically and sexually exploited from times immemorial, sometimes in the name of religion, sometimes on the pretext of the writing in the scriptures and sometimes by the social sanction. Dr. Aambedkar started his movement in 1920. He stated “We shall see better days soon and our progress will be greatly accelerated if female education is persuaded side by side with male education...”He started fierce propaganda against the Hindu social order and launched a journal Mook Nayak in 1920 and Bhishkrut Bharat in 1927 for this purpose. Through its issues he put due stress on the gender equality and need for education and exposed the problems of the depressed as well as women. The encouragement of Ambedkar empowered women to speak out boldly their feelings. As the chairman of drafting committee, Dr. Ambedkar, who knew a lot about the status of women in the Indian society, was responsible for the inclusion of women’s rights in the Indian constitution. Dr. Ambedkar believed in the strength of women and their role in the process of reform. He said that the progress of a community is measured by progress which women had achieved. He gave a slogan. “Educate, Unite and Fight.” Exhorted every girl to enjoy equal status with her husband, claim to be her husband’s friend, and refuse to be his slave. He believed that society should be based on reason and not on atrocious tradition of caste system. He wanted Hindu Society to be reconstructed along modern democratic ideas of liberty, equality and fraternity and his mission was to challenge the ideological foundations of graded system of caste hierarchy that denied equality, freedom and human dignity to women in Hindu Society.
In ancient India, women enjoyed a very information, ideas and financial resources high position but gradually their position like money - and access to money and degenerated into merely objects of control over decision-making in the pleasure meant to serve certain purpose. home, community, society and nation, They lost their individual identity and and to gain ‘power’. But, from time even their basic human rights. immemorial, the women in this land of Empowerment is a multi-faceted, multi- ours were treated as a sort of property. dimensional and multi-layered concept. She has no identity of herself. She is an Women’s empowerment is a process in individual without individuality. She can which women gain greater share of do nothing at her will. In ‘Manusmriti’ control over resource material, human the ancient Hindu Code-book, the status and intellectual like knowledge, granted to women is quite visible and she
www.ijar.org.in 115 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] was not treated as a human being, but as Shastras and Smritis to find out the root a slave or a ‘thing’ under somebody’s cause of degraded status of women in care. That is why Dr. Ambedkar, the India. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar's father and architect of approach to women's empowerment was Indian Constitution, was of the firm entirely different from other social opinion that until and unless, we defy the reformers like Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, Hindu Dharma-Shastras, nothing much Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Ishwar Chandra can be changed. They are also responsible Vidyasagar and Mahatma Gandhi who for inculcating certain wrong notions tried to reform certain outdated customs learnt through baseless traditions and and practices of the Hindu Society preaching of the Shastras, in the budding without questioning the hierarchical minds of their off spring. social order. Ambedkar believed that society should be based on reason and not Ambedkar proved, himself to be a genius on atrocious tradition of caste system. He and was known as a great thinker, wanted Hindu Society to be philosopher, revolutionary, jurist, prolific reconstructed along modern democratic writer, social activist and critic and ideas of liberty, equality and fraternity strode like a colossus in the Indian and his mission was to challenge the sociopolitical scene unto his death, his ideological foundations of graded system thoughts never received adequate of caste hierarchy that denied equality, attention in the generality of Indian freedom and human dignity to women in society just because he was born as an Hindu Society. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar untouchable. For Indian women’s was the principal architect of the Indian movement Ambedkar provides a powerful constitution and the emancipator of the source of inspiration to formulate a poor and deprived. He was not only a feminist political agenda which crusader against the caste system and a simultaneously addresses the issues of valiant fighter for the cause of the down class, caste and gender in the trodden but also a great statesman and a contemporary sociopolitical set up, which National Leader. Dr. Babasaheb was the still keeps conservative and reactionary beacon of light for the millions of values in many respects, particularly on depressed, oppressed and exploited people gender relations. The writings and of India. Speeches of Ambedkar show what values India should develop and how they would In the Manu Smruti, Manu not only modernize. shows contempt for women but goes on to degrade them as slaves, denies them the Literature survey reveals that times right to education and the right to immemorial women in our land were not property; and forbids them from given proper treatment. Her societal performing sacrifices. Being India’s first positioning was never on par with men. law minister and chairman of drafting She was not given even the basic rights. committee of the constituent Assembly, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar fought for Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar thought it woman's economic liberation and for appropriate, rather his duty, to free securing woman's social rights. He women from the age old traditions by stressed the need to safeguard the dignity reforming the Hindu social laws created and to respect the modesty of the women by Manu. He started his movement in folk. He studied extensively the Hindu www.ijar.org.in 116 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected]
1920 and believed in the strength of giving back dignity to Indian women and women and their role in the process of giving equal rights to men and Social reform and progress of the society women. They are Rights to property, which can be achieved by accelerating Order of succession to property, female education side by side with male marriage, divorce, guardianship. It was education. He started his own newspaper by any time a revolutionary measure and Mook Nayak in 1920 and Bahishkrit first step towards the recognition and Bharat in 1927 to strengthen his empowerment of women in India. By movement; to raise the voice for these a women will have property right liberation of women and promoting the and be able to dispose of her property. need for women's education; to upgrade Unfortunately this revolutionary bill was the social status and to motivate women partially dropped by the then Prime to participate in social reform movements Minister Nehru because of the orthodoxy against social evils. The content of all Hindu members. The orthodoxy in the issues used to be on gender equality, ruling party led by Shyama Prasad women education and exposed the Mukherjee didn’t allow this bill to be problems related to women and other passed. Even the women depressed classes. Dr. Babasaheb's member Sarojini Naidu was also against mission in his life was to challenge the these women rights. Although ideological foundation of graded system of Dr.Babasaheb Ambedkar could not caste hierarchy that denied equality, succeed in getting passed the full Hindu freedom and human dignity to women in Code Bill, he successfully laid the Hindu Society. Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar foundation of equality for the women of took initiative to draft and introduce the India in all spheres of life. Due to Hindu Code Bill in the Constitution Dr.Babasaheb Ambedkar efforts the Assembly to give equal status to women women are now holding high positions in on par with men by providing many all fields including Engineering, Medical, provisions in the Indian constitution. He Army, Air Force, Navy, Police, raised his voice against the Hindu social Administration, Politics etc. order and social system through Maternity Benefit Act: renowned journals Mook Nayak and Bahishkrit Bharat. Dr.Babasaheb Ambedkar played a major Hindu Code Bill: role in presenting the Maternity Benefits Bill for the factory women workers in the Dr.Babasaheb Ambedkar resigned from Bombay legislature in July, 1928. In fact the post of the first Law Minister of it was the first Maternity Benefits Act India when his noble 'Hindu Code Bill', passed in India in 1929 by the Bombay Women's Rights for Indian Women legislature. On that occasion he said, "I dropped by the then Prime believe that it is in the interest of the MinisterNehru. The contribution of nation that the mother ought to get a Dr.Babasaheb for women empowerment certain amount of rest during the pre- in India is totally ignored and unnoticed. natal period and also subsequently. I am For three years, he fought to get the Bill prepared to admit this fact because the passed. It was the greatest ever social conservation of the people's welfare is reform in India. It is nothing but primarily the concern of the Government. declaration of women rights. It spoke of And in every country, therefore, where www.ijar.org.in 117 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] the maternity benefit has been right because of him. But before introduced, you will find that the Independence, 'right to vote' was not an Government has been subjected to a easy task for Indians ,even for men also. certain amount of charge with regard to Mostly the Right to vote was given only maternity benefit. I think, therefore, the to those the rich, the landed and the tax benefits contemplated by this bill ought payers. to be given by this Legislature to the poor Equal pay for equal work women who toil in our factories in this irrespective of the sex: Presidency." Subsequently the Madras Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar was the first Maternity Benefit Act was passed by the person who brought "Equal pay for equal Madras Legislature Council in 1934 and work irrespective of the sex" in India in subsequently in other provinces of India terms of Industrial workers as a Labour As a Labour Minister in the Viceroy Minister in the Viceroy executive executive council between 1942 and council. While drafting the Indian 1946,Dr.Babasaheb Ambedkar was Constitution, Dr. Babasaheb played instrumental in bringing the Mines major role for the inclusion of the Article Maternity Benefit Bill for women in all 39(d) which relates the state to strive for over India. Under this act, a woman securing equal pay for equal work of both working in the mine is entitled to men and women in the Part IV of the maternity benefit for a period of 8 weeks. directive principles of the State This period of 8 weeks is divided into two Policy. parts of four weeks each, one part Dr.Babasaheb framed many laws preceding delivery and another part for Women Labourers in India: succeeding delivery. Later all the acts of 1. Mines Maternity Benefit Act, Maternity Benefit of various states were 2. Women Labour welfare fund, repealed and a common Maternity 3. Women and Child, Labour Protection Benefit Act-1961 was adopted by the Act, Central Government for all states in 4. Maternity Benefit for women Labour, India. 5. Restoration of Ban on Employment of Equal pay for equal work Women on Underground Work in Coal Mines, irrespective of the sex: 6. Equal pay for equal work irrespective Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar was the first of the sex: On this regard he said, "We person who brought the revolutionary have also taken care to see, and this is an "Equal pay for equal work irrespective of important point, that women shall be the sex" in India in terms of Industrial paid the same wages as men. It is for the workers as a Labour Minister in the first time that I think in any industry the Viceroy Executive Council. principle has been established of equal pay for equal work irrespective of the "Right to Vote" : sex." Right to vote is equal for all Women and While drafting the Constitution of India, Men in India. ie 'Adult franchise' was an Dr. Ambedkar was the prime mover of achievement of Dr.Babasaheb the provisions related to the welfare of Ambedkar: Our constitution granted women. On the question of civil rights, voting rights to all Indian women as a Dr. Ambedkar made provisions in www.ijar.org.in 118 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected]
Articles 14-16 of the Indian Constitution, economic and political rights for the which provided equal status to women depressed classes and women. As he said, and also banned the sale and purchase of “with political democracy we need social women prevailing in Hindu India. democracy too.” Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Further to ensure women’s status Dr. was a path-maker of all the women Ambedkar introduced an emancipatory irrespective of religion, caste, creed, bill (the Hindu Code Bill) in Parliament gender and brought a new trend for which intended mainly (1) to abolish uprising the women through his thoughts different marriage systems prevalent and beliefs. Along with women all the among Hindus and to establish people of India should be proud for the monogamy as the only legal system; (2) tremendous and everlasting steps for the Conferment of right to property and empowerment of women in Indian society adoption on women; 3) restitution of carried by Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar. conjugal rights and judicial separation; *** attempts to unify the Hindu Code in tune with progressive and modern thought. Hindu Code Bill was about widow remarriage; women’s right to seek divorce and remarry if she wishes to; and woman’s right to property. The Bill invited a lot of opposition from the orthodox sections of society and ultimately Dr Ambedkar had to resign on that account. In the history of India, perhaps that was one sole instance when a man tendered resignation for the cause of women. Dr. Ambedkar raised his voice for the liberation of women through his newspapers ‘Mook Nayak’ and ‘Bahishkrit Bharat’. Through his writings he discussed issues like gender inequality prevalent in Hindu society and the need of women’s education to raise their social status. He strongly believed in the fact that if “a woman is educated a family is educated”. He not only encouraged them to get educated themselves but also encouraged them to educate their children and keep them away from all kinds of vices. He strongly opposed taking of intoxicants that was because he realised that most cases of domestic violence occurred under their influence. He involved women in his social reform movements against wrong social practices and demanded socio- www.ijar.org.in 119 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected]
Justice and Equality in Dr.Ambedkar’svision of India
D. Durga Kalyani, [Lect in eng] S.K.S.D. Mahila Kalasala UG & PG TANUKU
Abstract: Dr.B.R.Ambedkar is one of the greatest figures of modern India who liberated a vast section of the Indian people from the debased,dehumanized condition of divine slavery.His forecast concern was equality.His emphasis on morality and his effort for the establishment of an egalitarian society on the principle of justice,equality and fraternity also discussed.The true assessment of Ambedkar’s movement is that it has shown how a social impossibility in the frame work of a very rigid social system,can have success in altering the socio-political set-up with in such a small span of time. Key words:Equality,justice,fraternity,socio-political setup
Introduction: ‘fitting together’. It is the principle of order in political society. Without justice Dr.B.R.Ambedkar was popularly known there can be no peace,because where as Baba Saheb,was an Indian there is no justice there can be no law. In jurist,economist,politician and social western concept justice means the reformer who inspired the Dalit Buddhist existence of Ideal relations among men movement and campaigned against social and between men and the state. To sum discrimination against up, Ambedkar believes that the religion untouchables,while also supporting the which is not based on truth, on justice rights of women and labour.He was an and on strong principles, doesn’t last uncompromising rebel against social long. Ambedkars concept of justice is injustice and inequality.He worked nothing but social humanisum which he relentlessly for the regeneration of envisioned for the well beings of all humanity,for the well-being of citizens of India. mankind,for the transformation of man and society.He was a great social Dr.Ambedkar’s attempt to embody liberal.He observes social democracy as a justice and equality in the way of life which recognizes constitution of India liberty,equality and fraternity as the Dr.Ambedkar’s main object was to principles of life and these princles are reconstruct the Hindu society into an the other name of democracy. eqalitarian society based on the principle Concept of justice in western and of justice,equality and fraternity. Being indian thought-role of morality: the constitutional maker he was consicious of the prevailing unequal Justice,though being considered to be social order of India and therefore laid individual virtue but social in its down the foundations of a socio-liberal appliciation with certain welfare democratic state that can be obligations,rights and duties.Justice is ensure a just and equal society for all. As grounded not only in morality and a social revolutionary revolted against religion,but also in law and constitution the social order based on varna,caste and order.generally it means ‘joining’ and
www.ijar.org.in 120 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] untuchability. The Hindu system is ushering in India a social economic designed to be undemocratic. He strived democracy. He envisaged the cohensive hard for the inclusion of the Directive social order based on eauality and justice principle of state policy in the i.e.,social,economie and political. constitution as a great measure for Conclusion: justice and equality. The constitution also provides mechanism to ensure protection During the decisive phases of India’s of the constitutional rights with a view to freedom struggle, Dr.Ambedkar had creating an egalitarian social order. The fought for a correlated but different constitution is the core of our national freedom struggle, one for the liberation of life. Dr.Ambedkar,the builder of modern the most oppressed sections of Indian India, was created an integrated society society. His fight was against inhumanity through the constitution. – the demon that has emerged out of the A National approach to the traditional textual interpretation of fulfillment of Ambedkar’s vision of Manu Samhita whose essential power India bases were inequality and injustice. He interpreted justice and social equality as There are various famous forms of indienable human right that a state must government known to the history- ensure for its citizens. Ambedkar’s sole monarchy, Aristocracy and Democracy to emphase was on the equal treatment of which may be added Dictator shep. But all human being in terms of law, religion the most prevalent form of government and morality. The true assessment of at the present time is ‘democracy’. Ambedkar’s movement, is that it has Dr.Ambedkar considered democracy as a shown how a social impossibility, in the historical movement. If society is not framework of a very regid social system, democratic, government can never be. If can have success in attering the socio- the mental disposition of the individuals political set-up within such a small span is democratic then the democratic form of of time. government would produce good References: government. If not, democratic form of government may easily become a 1. Ambedkar B.R. [1936], Annihilalur of dangerous form of government. It will be caste; reprinted in government of a government by a class for a class. It is Maharastra [1979-98] volume1 more than a political machine. The 2. Justice and equality in distributive justice in democracy insists Dr.B.R.Ambedkar’s vision of India by on absolute equality. Fraternity is also CHITTARANJAN MALLIK. another name of democracy. The foundation of democracy would be feeble 3. Ambedkar, B.R.[1948] “states and and shaky if the contradictions between Minorities”, Memorandum submitted political democracy,enshrined in the to the constituent assembly; reprinted constitution, social and economic in government of Maharastra [1979- inequalities existing in our society, are 98] volume5 not resolved. He was the pioneer of democracy of India. He was of the opinion that free India should be made safe for democracy. It was his glorious fight for
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Human Rights of Dalits
B. Satyanarayana, Lecturer in English, SRI Y.N College, Narsapur
Introduction: The term Dalit which was used in the nomenclature of dalit literature was suggested by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the most outstanding leaders of the anti-caste movement in India. Defying the term like Asprushtha suggested by a conservative thinker M S Mate and Harijan suggested by M.K. Gandhi, Ambedkar preferred the term Dalit which means Down trodden. Ambedkar wrote Dalit hood which is a kind of life condition that characterizes the exploitation, suppression and marginalization of the lower castes by the social, economic, cultural and political domination of the upper caste Brahminicalorder. The term was not used to refer to a particular caste according to Raosaheb Kasbe, the term Dalit refers to all those sections of the society, which are oppressed for various reasons. He argues that the term has universal connotations. The term neither exclusively refers to caste nor can it substitute the term caste system which is a defying characteristic of the Indian society. The term Dalit refers to all the exploited people belonging to various lower castes inIndia.
From the beginning the dalits are suppressed and depressed in our society. A central feature of caste discrimination is due to the untouchability practices. Stemming from the notion the different caste groups present are considered to be impure and polluting to other caste groups. Consequently due to this the caste system leads to social exclusion and systematically the denial of basic rights of Dalits at all levels in the society. Although India has an impressive range of constitutional provisions and laws that can ban caste discrimination and untouchability but the lack of implementation remains a chronic problem. UN human rights bodies including
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Movements and Bahujanisation Process in India
P.Y. Krupavaram, M.A., Lecturer in English, S.V.K.P & Dr.K.S. Raju Arts & Science College, PENUGONDA, W.G.Dt.,
Abstract : Bahujanisation has a new dimension to the process of suppression and the exploitation which has been taking place in different layers of the society. Earlier we discussed that the suppressed and oppressed sections of people are called Dalits but that definition confined to only untouchables. Though the Dalit panthers of Maharashtra and Dalit Mahasabha of Andhra Pradesh used that term to include all exploited castes, the scholarly literature did not treat it that way. Hence a new term Bahujan is being used to refer to the other lower castes. The concept of Bahujanisation came into use in the 1990’s. In a way Bahujanisation was provoked by Joti Rao Phule (Sudras, Ati- sudra) and developed by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (oppressed classes) even without achieve saying the concept Bahujanisation. It is only from the 1990’s that in the process of Mandal and post-mandal commission period that intellectual who starved developing the concept of Bahujanisation. Prof. Kancha Ilaiah used the concept Dalitism and analysed how Dalitism has come to stay as the only alternative to the contending theories of Gandhi and Marx. He also used the concept Dalitization to establish a relationship between different classes and castes and between men and women. Key Words: ideology, identity, Collective Mobilization, Organization, Leadership etc-.
INTRODUCTION .Deprived sections of society in different parts of the world have organized Dalit-bahujans have been winning their themselves into protest movements to battle against designator and gaining in fight against discriminations of various form of reservation benefits from the kinds based on colour, religion, Caste and days of British rule of India. By 1980s the tribe. Their problem has been one of dalits included Sudras in their camp and establishing a new identity, the kind of began united fight against Casteism with image that they want to protest in order identity and demanding proportionate to gain self-respect, honour and status. share in various fields. This is turn while question of identity has been triggered sub-caste identity movements common to all the deprived sections, the demanding responsible identity and equal answers that they have sought to provide share in fields of education employment have been different but homogeneous. and politics in India. In this article an MEANING OF BAHUJAN attempt is made to discuss Dalit-bahujan movement,its growth in the state of The term ‘Bahujan’ was coined Andhra Pradesh. It is worth to note that many years ago Goutham Buddha used it bahujan Movement in Andhra Pradesh is first. He used the concept ‘Bahujana shaped and guided by some of that most Hithaya and Bahujana Sukhaya’. He distinguished Leaders of the Backward advocated total Bahujan happiness and Classes not just the happiness of a few people. The present attempts of Bahujanisation
www.ijar.org.in 131 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] reflect the advocacy of Buddha and are caste awareness among Dalitbahujans. more relevant. The concept The era of caste identity movements Bahujanisation has its roots in the which received inspiration from Madiga Buddhist era with the objective of Dandora Movement realized the establishing a society based on the values significance of an organized articulation of equality, including that of women’s of their specific demands, and more often, equality. This term was used for their space in the socio-political occasionally by Mahatma Jyoti Rao scenario. The Erukala community Phule. started the ‘Erukala Kurru” demanding categorization among STs. On the same As pointed out earlier, the concept lines, several Other Backward Castes ‘Bahujan’ indicates the majority in the (OBCs) made efforts to start their society. After Kanshiram popularized the respective caste identity movements. The term Bahujan by naming his party major caste based organizations which Bahujan Samaj Party. The concept emerged are the ‘Dolu Debba’ of the Bahujan became popular as it includes Golla-Kurumas (Yadavas), ‘Poosalakeka’ the minorities in addition to the SCs, STs of the Pusala community, ‘Chakirevu and OBCs. Debba’ of the Chakali (washerman), The caste identity movements Moku Debba’ of the Gouda Community, like the Madiga Dandora Movement and Sammeta Debba’ of the Vishwabrahmins, its influence on other caste identity the Kummaris (potter), ‘Tudum Debba’ movements. An attempt is made to ‘Nangara Bheri’ of Lambadas and so on. analyze caste identity movements in These caste based organizations besides Telangana the trends and limitations of asserting their caste identities by these and the role of political parties and organizing their communities, also non-political organizations in the articulated their concerns towards a mobilization of Bahujans. In addition, number of socio-economic demands due focus is laid on how these movements to their respective occupational or caste aligned with each other and led to the groups. process of ‘Bahujanisation’. During the post-Mandal period, The Madiga Dandora Movement growing consciousness among BCs raised which started during the 1990s in caste several questions relating to their socio- identity movements in Andhra Pradesh political rights from all over the country. in general and Telangana in particular, BCs being the majority, consider led towards ‘identity establishment’ and themselves the creators and producers of also once again brought awareness all wealth. They started articulating, among other Dalitbahujan communities. ‘Votes are ours, seats are yours’. Such This movement brought about sea questioning was influenced by the changes amongs lakshs of Madigas and ideological postulations of their leaders, led them to realise their rights, as a including Mahatma Jyoti Rao Phule, consequence, it occupies a unique place in Periyar Ramasami Naikar and Dr. B.R. the history of caste identity movements Ambedkar. During the same period in in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The Andhra Pradesh, an OBC movement was Madiga Dandora Movement significantly emerging and gaining political contributed to strengthen and increase importance. Identifying with movements
www.ijar.org.in 132 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] led by Phule, Periyar and Ambedkar, this inspired many other caste leaders. The OBC movement attempted to assert its need for fighting for their own problems identity and voice its demands. It has and building leadership within caste emerged as another significant identity ranks evolved among these lower castes. movement after the Madiga Dandora These castes understood that there was movement. no necessity for other political parties to lead them. Gradually they started With the influence of the questioning the mainstream political Dandora movement, Dalits and Backward parties on various issues. Thus, for the Caste people began adding their caste rightwing movements and Communist titles to their names such as Madiga, parties in Telangana region, it became Mala, Mudiraj, Goud, Yadav and Nayak, necessary to build affiliations with Dalits similar to upper castes, which suffix and BCs. Reddy, Chowdari, Rao, Sastri, Sharma, etc. This was an international form The important implications from resistance and assertion of caste identity the above theoretical framework are that to assert identity and self- respect. The caste identity movements are the leadership of these caste movements instruments of organization, perceived it as an attempt to shed the mobilization, and articulation. They are inferiority attached to these social groups instruments to train leadership as also which were classified as pollutant castes. the instruments for spreading ideas In the process, these movements also through its publications. In the line of highlighted the cultural unjustice of these implications, the changing profile of OBCs. caste identity movements in Andhra MADIGA DANDORA-STRATEGIES Pradesh in general and Telangana in AND ARTICULATIONS particular is examined. For this purpose, four caste identity movements are chosen The effort of the Madiga Dandora for analysis, the Dolu Debba, Nangara in building a caste based mass movement Bheri. Chakirevu Debba and Moku is in an important milestone in Indian Debba. There are, of course, many caste political history. Its success lies in its identity movements like the Erukala Kurru, Pusalakeka, Thudum Debba, strategy in bringing self-respect to a caste Sammeta Debba which hitherto, was neglected in society. , etc. The idea of identifying with their caste DOLU DEBBA MOVEMENT name itself was an innovative strategy. (YADAVAS) It all started with a few people taking of a Padayatra, earlier, the movement was Ever since the Dandora confined to Dharnas, Meetings and public Movement started, the Golla-Kuruma, rallies etc. one of the leading backward castes and an important occupational community in The identity of a caste depends Telangana Region. It has been upon its consciousness in turn, it also organizing and consolidating itself. In enlightens other downtrodden castes. 1997, the Golla Kurumas organized The idea of having a militant group for themselves under the name “Dolu each of these lower castes emerged with Debba” under the leadership of Belli the influence of the Madiga Dandora. Krishna, Belli Lalitha and Gunda Ravi. The leadership of Manda Krishna Madiga
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They conceived the movement to align may lead to the Bahujanisation process. with other caste identity movements and The mutual understanding between the subsequently build their ‘own caste Lambadi Hakkula Porata Samithi movement and articulate their specific (LHPS) and the people of Dalit-Bahujan demands. movements is to initiate a common IMPACT OF DOLU DEBBA platform for the organizations and MOVEMENT protect their rights under the banner, ‘Ummadi Hakkula Porata Samit’. The impact of this movement is The Lambadas have started seen more in the Telangana, where they ‘Nangra Bheri’ under the leadership of have united all members of the caste and Bellaiah naik, with the slogan hapan established caste societies and unions at thanda hapan raj (self-rule in our different levels. This movement may be thandas) this movement has raised many viewed as a movement of self-respect, questions .particularly that of the failure state government after viewing the Dolu to realize, despite constitutional Debba movement in Telangana. The guarantees rights and entitlements Dolu Debba movement has emerged as an pertaining to schedule Tribes. important caste movement. For them, DEMANDS OF NANGRA BHERI caste struggle means to rebel against Brahmanism, question upper caste Some of the important demands domination and deny the customs and put forth by the Nangra Bheri are as traditions of Hindu caste system. They follows. Government should bring out a considered the caste identity as a weapon law to recognize Lambada thandas as against exploitation by upper castes and special gram Panchayats. Reservations upheld caste identity with pride and the should be implemented in the private movement as the vehicle to express their sector. Backlog posts should be filled assertion. immediately. All political parties should NANGARA BHERI (LAMBADAS) extend cooperation to realize the Demand of recognizing thandas as separate Inspired by the Dandora Panchayats. Government should not Movement the Nangara Bheri (which amend the rules of Act 1/70 which means the sound of the conch in protects the rights of tribes on lands and Lambada language) movement has come other resources. to the forefront in early 1998. This CHAKIREVU DEBBA movement was started for realizing the rights of Lambadis, who are a scheduled (WASHERMAN) tribal group in Andhra Pradesh. We The Chakalis (Washerman) should get our share as per our traditionally known as Rajakas. Render population’ is the slogan of the Nangara services of washing clothes to people. Bheri, which was initially to be known as They wash clothes of people of all castes. the Lambadi Hakkula Porata Samithi Except of the Mala and Madigas (LHPS). In order to achieve their rights, communities. Their livelihood is linked they felt that a movement should be built with the village as they are paid either in within Lambadis and consequently a cash or in kind. Due to the collapse of united oppressed caste front can be the agriculture based village economy formed. They recognize that such a front
www.ijar.org.in 134 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] after urbanization, traditional it in different form, most Gouds depend occupational groups were also affected only on their occupation. Their main adversely. Chakalis left their traditional livelihood is to draw toddy and sell it. occupation and migrated to nearby towns Gouds toil to draw toddy thrice a day. often change their occupation. They usually climb the toddy trees even in the rainy season, though it involves The Chakirevu Debba movement rick, their back and limbs become as hard was inspired by other caste identity as stons. With the new economic policies movements. This movement felt that at and modernization, Gouds are losing first the caste should organize within and their identity and occupation in the era of then join other Dalit-Bahujan castes to ‘globalisation’. The occupation should be come under one umbrella. The protected and modernized, cooperative Chakirevu Debba movement identified societies developed and plantation of that each caste has specific problems and toddy trees developed. As well differentiated such problems as per caste development and preservation of toddy hierarchy to solve them. The Chakirevu technology. Not only Madiga, Mala, Debba movement came forward with the tribal, Yadava, Chakali and Gouds, all slogan ‘share as per population ‘and Bahujan Communities are facing similar informs government about financial and problems in Telangana state. social problems on a regular basis. MAJOR DEMANDS OF CHAKIREVU Caste identity, polarizations self- respect all these have contributed in a DEBBA professional based unity among BCs, SCs Some of the important demands and STs and laid a bridge for put forth by the Chakirevu Debba are as Bahujanisation process. They have follows. conveyed a message that caste awareness is not enough; it is the awareness of In India, the Chakali (Washerman) Dalit-Bahujans that can enable them to community is included in the Scheduled make inroads into the political arena. Caste list in 16 states, whereas in This is the background for the various Telangana State, they are in the B.C. list. caste identity movements which began Hence they demand inclusion in the S.C. struggles in the name of caste and list. This is the major demand of the professions. Among these identity Chakirevu Debba. The Chakali are movements. The Madiga Dandora stood economically, educationally and in the forefront and inspired Bahujans politically backward and should be belonging to different castes. protected against such treatment. Separate and residential schools for Today no single caste can achieve Chakali children must be established. political power. But only when the unity MOKU DEBBA (GOUDS, TODDY- of a single caste takes place that the TAPPERS) process of Bahujanisation will start. There is a close relationship between In Telangana one more major these castes if one sees their work population in the backward class culture. There may be differences which community. The Gouds are facing can be resolved. So long as the upper similar problems as are the Lambadas, caste high-handedness exists, the upper Golla-Kurmas, Chakali and weavers, but and lower caste differences exist. Phule,
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in order to rescue Shudras and ati- percent in 1931. Backward Classes were Shudras from the supremacy of unevenly distributed, and divided into a Brahmanism, started Satya Shodak large number of small groups. The most Samaj. Shudras and ati- Shudras means populous among them, the Dalit-Bahujans. These kinds of Munnurukapus &Muttra’s (23.9 percent) movements helped to evolve a process of were spread more or less evenly in the Bahujanasation. Telangana region. Among BCs Yadavas BCs Population – 1931 Census in constituted 12.1 percent followed by Telangana Goudas with 10.4 percent Padmashalies (Weaver community) occupy fourth place V. Satyanarayana estimated the with 8.6 percent followed by Chakali population figures of Telangana on the (Washer men) with 5.9 percent. All other basis of 1931 Census (see table-1). The BCs communities constitute ranging from Backward Castes constituted a very large 0.52, 10.3, and 3.4 which are numerically proportion of the population in the ten significant. districts of Telangana constituting 46 BCs Particulars in Telangana – 1931 Census Table -1
S. S. Caste Population % Caste Population % No No. Munnurukapu & 1 9,43,712 23.9 16 Arekatika 71,953 1.8 Muttra’s 2 Yadav 4,76,825 12.1 17 Satani 55,564 1.4 3 Gouda 4,09,742 10.4 18 Darji 44,850 1.1 4 Padmashli 3,36,761 8.6 19 Waddera 44,712 1.1 5 Chakali 2,33,448 5.9 20 Balija 43,219 1,1 6 Kuruma 1,36,113 3.4 21 Uppara 32,138 0.8 Noobhasrladdaf,Dud 7 1,53,000 3.9 22 Perika 29,264 0.7 ekula,Mehtar, etc. Viswabrahma 8 Bestha 1,39,582 3.5 23 27,704 0.7 n 9 Magali 1,07,132 2.7 24 Gandla 26,268 0.7 10 Vaddera 1,03,106 2.6 25 Medera 24,503 0.6 11 Kumari 98,643 2.5 26 Kanchara 20,805 0.5 12 Kamsali 94,791 2.4 27 Bhatraj 12,715 0.3 Others Ramgreji, 13 Vadla 88,099 2.2 28 Hatkar, 35,158 0.9 Male, Parthi, Veera Musti 14 Kammari 68,128 1.7 15 Jangam 79,926 2.0 Total 39,37,861 Source: Samajikanyayam – Andariki Adikaram, Author: K.V.Satyanarayana
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Muralidhar Rao commission did the same Estimation of Population in for the data relating to Andhra Pradesh Telangana Another organized estimate of caste projections has been made by the According to the Telangana government of Andhra Pradesh to region estimation itself, the BCs conduct the local body elections based on population is 48.68% SCs 15.85% STs caste reservations of elected positions in 8.87% Reddys 4.5% and, Kammas 3% both rural and urban local bodies. Both Christians 1.24% Muslim BCs 12.43% Mandal and Muralidhar rao Commissions others 9.95%. Official caste census estimated the BC (OBC) population at 52 statistics in India are available only up to percent, while the government of Andhra the year 1931 and later only after several Pradesh estimated exclusively for the years an organized effort has been made purposes of local bodies’ elections at 48 by Mandal Commission to assess the percent. The Sri Krishna committee strength of backward castes. Census (2010) on Telangana while quoting the statistics during the post-independence government sources put the BCs period cover only details about the population figure at 44.5 percent in the populations by region and especially data state. Provides the details relating to the relating to SCs and STs. Mandal general caste composition of the state as Commission has relied mainly on the estimated recently 1931 census data has the base and worked out projections of population growth of OBCs on all India bases while
Estimate Population in Telangana Tabel-2
Muslim Other SC ST Christians BC BC s Adilabad 18.54 16.74 0.59 45.94 2.85 6.87 Nizamabad 14.84 7.7 0.69 53.04 4.32 10.12 Karimnagar 18.62 2.60 0.59 60.51 1.80 4.32 Medak 17.58 5.4 1.30 53.63 3.33 7.77 Ranga Reddy 14.55 4.09 2.51 47.07 3.43 8.00 Mahabubnagar 17.10 7.93 0.54 55.11 2.54 5.91 Nalgonda 17.73 10.55 1.00 51.11 1.58 3.67 Warangal 16.99 14.10 0.95 52.26 1.64 3.82 Khammam 16.5 26.47 1.19 31.00 1.61 3.77 Hyderabad 8.21 0.90 2.43 37.70 8.23 32.94 Total 15.85 8.87 1.24 48.68 12.43 9.95 Source: Samajikanyayam – Andariki Adikaram, Author: K.V.Satyanarayana According to the state estimation commissions has relied mainly on the itself, the BCs population Census 1931 census data as the base and worked statistics during the post- independence out projections of population growth of period cover only details about the OBCs on all India basis while Muralidhar populations by region and especially data Rao commission did the same for the data relating to SCs and STs. Mandal relating to Andhra Pradesh .So the
www.ijar.org.in 137 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] figures presented here have been obtained by projections of the 1931 data and can only be taken as estimates. Population of BCs in Andhra Pradesh Distribution of Social Groups by State and Region (percentage) Table – 3 Other Region SCs STs Muslims OBCs Minorities Andhra Pradesh 16.2 6.6 9.2 1.7 44.5 Telangana inc 15.8 8.9 12.4 1.5 50.7 Hyderabad Telangana 16.9 10.0 8.4 1.2 53 [ex. Hyderabad] 8.0 6.9 41.2 3.2 35 Rayalaseema 16.7 2.9 12.5 0.9 43 Costal Andhra 16.3 6.0 1.5 2.2 39 Source : Census 2001 and NSSO 64th round. Sri Krishna Committee Report
Table – 3 also indicate that constitutes 10 percent. In the overall there is variation in the formation of sense in Telangana BCs, SCs, STs and social groups between various regions Minorities constitute slightly more than within Andhra Pradesh. The upper castes 89 percent, while in overall in Andhra constitute only 10.7 percent of the total Pradesh it was 78 percent, while BCs in population of the Telangana region, while the whole of Andhra Pradesh constitute in Rayalaseema and Costal Andhra it is slightly more than 44.5 percent. This 24.2 percent and 32.0 percent data clearly indicates that the upper respectively. BCs constitute 44.5 percent castes or dominant castes constitute less in the State of Andhra Pradesh while the than 11 percent in Telangana and only 22 Telangana region excluding Hyderabad percent in the whole of Andhra Pradesh. holds 53.00 percent of population. In This makes very clear that BCs Coastal Andhra, BCs constitute 39.0 consisting of 140 different castes together percent (Srikakulam, Vijayanagaram and with common interests and common Vishakapatnam districts cover a large problems constitute the single largest majority of BC population), while in group of population as well as voters and Rayalaseema, it is 43.00 Andhra Pradesh spread over in almost all constituencies has very nearly the same distribution of ranging from a maximum of 85 percent to SC population as in the rest of the a minimum 35 percent country in general and from within its CONCLUSION various regions. In Telangana State the Dalit However, the minorities Bahujan caste consciousness was especially Muslims constitutes 41.2 growing, even before Telangana merged percent in Hyderabad city alone, while in in to Andhra Pradesh. Because of the Telangana excluding Hyderabad it has Telangana Armed Struggle a class been 6.9 percent. Tribal population in consciousness was formed. But sub Telangana excluding Hyderabad sequent particularly in the 1980s and
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90s. The Dalit Bahujans who organized in Gujarat: A Study of the themselves in to the independent caste Kshatriya Mahasabha, Bombay, identity movement slowly created a Popular Prakashan. consciousness of communing identity and 8. Venkateshu. E., Backward Castes spread the consciousness about the need and Mobilization Process in for reservations. By various of the Andhra Pradesh, the Indian Muralidhar Rao and Mandal Commission journal of Political Science. Dalit Bajujans started to think on Bahujanizing themselves by referring of 9. Vidhyasagar. R. and Suresh, V., 60th SC, ST, OBC as Bahujans. The (1990), Backward Classes and Madiga Dandora movement has Reservations, EPW. significantly contributed to strengthen 10. Christophe Jaffrelot, (2000), The and increasing the caste awareness Rise of the Other Backward among various Dalit-Bahujans. Classes in the Hindi Belt, The REFERENCES Journal of Asian Studies. 1. Ghanshyarn (Eds.), Dalit Identity 11. Marc Galanter, (1988), and Polities, Cultural Competing Equalities: Law and Subordination and the Dalit the Backward Classes in India, Challenge, Vol.2, Sage, New Werner Menski Bulletin of the Delhi, 2011, p.118. School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, 2. Ravinder, D., Rajyadhikaramkosam Vol. 51. Udhyamisthunna Gollala Vartha, 12. The First Backward Classes 28th November, 1999. Commission (1953), (Chairman: Kaka Kalelkar), Government of 3. Srinivasulu, K., (1994), ‘Andhra India. Pradesh: BSP and Caste Politics’, EPW. 13. The Second Backward Classes Commission (1980), (Chairman: 4. Srinivasulu, K. and Prakash Political B.P. Mandal), 12 Volumes in two Sarangi, (1999), ‘ Realignments in Post – NTR parts, Government of India. Andhra Pradesh’, EPW. 14. Anantharaman Commission Report (1970), on Backward 5. Suri, K.C., (2001), ‘Andhra Pradesh: Setback for the TDP in Classes, Government of Andhra Pradesh. Panchayat Elections’, Economic and Political Weekly, 13th 15. Muralidhar Rao Commission October, 2001. Report (1982), on Backward Classes, Government of Andhra 6. Satyanarayana, G., (1992), Changing, Agrarian Structure Pradesh. Why I am and Labour Relations, Delhi 16. Kancha Ilaiah, (1969), “ not a Hindu Rawat Publications. ”, (Samya, Calcutta). 7. Shah, Ghanshyam, (1975), Caste Association and Political process
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Indian Democracy and Political Process
Dr.G.N.Subbarao, Research Associate, Centre for Ambedkar Studies, Univesity of Hyderabad.
Abstract : Most Indians speak with great pride as though their country was already a democracy. The foreigners also, when they sit at a dinner table to do diplomatic honor to India, speak of the Great Indian Prime Minister and the Great Indian Democracy. From this, it is held without waiting to argue that where there is a Republic, there must be democracy. It is also supposed that where there is Parliament which is elected by the people on adult suffrage and the laws are made by the People’s Representatives in Parliament elected after few years, there is democracy. In other words, democracy is understood to be a political instrument and where this political instrument exists, there is democracy. Is there democracy in India or is there no democracy in India? What is the truth? No positive answer can be given unless the confusion caused by equating democracy with Republic and by equating democracy with Parliamentary Government is removed. Key words: roots of Democracy, Dr.B.R.Ambedkar, social relationship
Introduction Here, to make any democratic constitution a successful one, the According to Dr.B.R.Ambedkar countrymen must live a harmonious life Democracy is quite different from and loyalty to public ends and mutuality a Republic as well as from Parliamentary of sympathy and co-operation. The Government. He says “The roots of question raises in mind that do we really democracy lie not in the form of have the above mentioned qualities in Government, Parliamentary or among us ? do the countrymen live a otherwise. A democracy is more than a harmonious life without any social, form of Government. It is primarily a political, economic and religious mode of associated living. The roots of differences ? from the ages India consists Democracy are to be searched in the of an innumerable collection of castes social relationship, in the terms of which are exclusive in their life and have associated life between the people who no common experience to share and have form a society.” From the above no bond of sympathy. Given this fact it is definition we can understand that not necessary to argue the point since we democracy is to be found in social come across the caste hatred and relationship in terms of associated life. atrocities in our day to life. The existence India is known for its divers nature. We of the Caste System is a standing denial have thousands of castes, religions, of the existence of those ideals of society different races and millions of languages. and therefore of democracy. Despite having so many differences and diversified culture, we are considered to Several eminent personalities have be united nation. And more over a defined democracy. The dictionary strongest developing democracy of the meaning of the democracy is world. “government by the people in which the supreme power is vested in the people
www.ijar.org.in 140 International Journal of Academic Research ISSN: 2348-7666; Vol.4, Issue-3(5), March, 2017 Impact Factor: 4.535; Email: [email protected] and exercised directly by them or by their The main role of the opposition party is elected agents under a free electoral to check and question the policies made system”. Walter Bagehot defined by the ruling party and draw attention on democracy as “Government by the real causes of the nation and to stop discussion”. According to Mr.Abraham ruling party from over powering people. Lincoln, democracy is a government “ of It has to question the government of the the people, by the people and for the day and hold them accountable to the people”. Democracy is indeed the form of public. The opposition is equally government elected by the people for responsible in upholding the best them. But we have to understand that interests of the people of the country. democracy is a set of ideas and principles They have to ensure that the government about freedom. Dr.B.R.Ambedkar defines does not take any steps which might have democracy in a unique way as thus negative implications on the people of the “Democracy is a form and method of country Basically, the opposition party government whereby revolutionary have to check the excesses of the ruling changes in the social life are brought or dominant party and not to be about without bloodshed.” antagonistic. There are actions of the ruling party which may be beneficial to Among the above said few definitions the masses and oppositions are expected Dr.Ambedkar’s definitions stands apt. to support thing. They should raise the real test of democracy is to be immediate protest and voice against the analyzing the change in social life. deemed injustice and wrong motions run Democracy is not just a form of by the ruling class in the parliament. The government; it is mode of associated leader of opposition should always bear in living, an essential attitude of respect and mind that they are representing the reverence towards our fellow men. But people of India and fighting for justified we can see that, in our day to day life, demands and defending all the unlawful due to the different castes, religions, and unfair practices by the ruling classes. traditions and various faith each caste tends to dislike others just because they The opposition party has to highlight the belong to different caste. But the greatest failures of the ruling government so contribution of Indian Constitution is convincingly that the common public gets despite the differences, India is still going to know the facts behind the failure and strong without any internal understand that the failures were disbursement unlike our neighboring because of the apathy of the government. countries! In the event of a weak opposition party, the ruling government and its Let’s turn towards the main topic i.e. representatives may become complacent Opposition Party: The Basic Pillar of and insensitive for duration of their rule. Democracy! in any democracy the Just have a glance through our history of opposition party plays a vital role. In past 15 parliaments and current one politics, the opposition comprises one or India has seen, we will understand that more political parties that are against the the strong opposition party is needed to ruling government. Ideally the opposition safeguard the rights of the common party goes against the ruling party in any people and for a strong democracy. governemtn.
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But, unfortunately in India, the ruling Conclusion class and opposition party have become It is evident that, rational authors, two sides of the same coin. One loot the writers, social activists, poets have country after another and without any undertook the social responsibility and morale ! In India, the opposition party is portraying the role of opposition party not performing its duty and stands as the now. They raise voice against injustice People’s Voice. Both ruling and from time to time. But then, those so opposition parties have joined hands in called activists too could not dare to come sucking blood of common man abruptly out of their caste and religious notions. and unseemingly. Corruptions after They do speaks on the issues aptly, but Corruptions, scams after scams but rarely seen speaking against the real nothing has turned legally against any of problem of india ie Caste and Religious the person who are involved in multi inequalities, Gender Discriminations, crore scams. The agitations and uproar is Communal genocides which happens only to mislead the masses and divert the almost everyday at all the parts of India. attention so that everything is fixed The time has come to understand the meticulously. And this has resulted in spirit of Constitution and importance of threat to the very basics of Parliamentary parliamentary democracy. As I Democracy and Constitution as a whole. mentioned in the beginning of this article After the Opposition Parties, Media is is democracy is a social unity. Every considered to be the Fourth Pillar of the member of the society should feel the Democracy. The role of media is to pain of others; every citizen should highlight the day to day issues and understand the meaning and importance enlight people over all the irregularities of fraternity and brotherhood. Then only of the administrative and political we can think of a strong democracy and branches of the country. These days can achieve the goals enshrined in the media is playing very important role in constitution i.e., Liberty, Equality, curbing the crimes and wrong doings. Fraternity and Justice. If we all perform Because of technology, people are being our duties well then I am sure, India will aware of all the national and be a superpower in the days to come. international issues at their very homes. References: However, what we see that the media has also became the puppet of strong 1. "Cabinet Secretariat - Government politicians and political parties. of India". Cabsec.nic.in. Therefore, expecting any news without Retrieved 10 July 2013. any undue influence, pressure and 2. "India should redirect subsidies to impartial and unbiased news is a matter those who need them". The of yesteryears now. The media neither International Herald Tribute. speaks on the issues nor highlight the dead link 2005.[ ] problems of the common man. I would dare to say that the fourth pillar of 3. "Indif_real_GDP_per_capitaa says democracy has collapsed under the feet 21 of 29 states to launch new of corrupt politicians. tax". Daily Times. 25 March 2005. 4. Adv Mahendra Jadhav : Online Blog
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5. Bakshi; P M (2010). Constitution the New Delhi based Association Of India, 10/e. Universal Law for Democratic Reform) retrieved Publishing Company Limited. 14 May 2009 pp. 48–. ISBN 978-81-7534-840-0. 17. What are the prospects of Retrieved 10 May 2012. democracy in India? – By Dr. B. 6. Bernardi, Luigi and Fraschini, R. Ambedkar Angela (2005). "Tax System And
Tax Reforms In India". Working paper n. 51. 7. Brainy Quotes 8. Cabinet Ministers (as on 26.05.2014). Cabsec.nic.in.
Retrieved on 6 December 2013.
9. CIA World Factbook
10. Datt, Ruddar & Sundharam, K.P.M. "55". Indian Economy. pp. 943–945.
11. Dr.B.R.Ambedkar speech in the
Constituent Assemble on 26th November 1949. 12. Kumar; Rajesh. Universal's Guide to the Constitution of India Pg no. 72. 13. Oldenburg, Philip (31 August 2010). India, Pakistan, and Democracy: Solving the Puzzle of Divergent Paths. Taylor & Francis. p. 71. ISBN 978-0-415- 78018-6. Retrieved 3 May2012. 14. Pratiyogita Darpan (March 2007). Pratiyogita Darpan. Pratiyogita Darpan. p. 60. Retrieved 10 May 2012. 15. Service tax and expenditure tax are not levied in Jammu and Kashmir; Intrastate sale happens when goods or the title of goods move from one state to another. 16. Washington Post:When the Little Ones Run the Show (quote from
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