Upholding Constitutional Ideals: Equality in Post-Independence
India
Introduction: Post-independence
India embarked on a journey guided by the principles enshrined in its
constitution. Central to this journey was the promise of equality before the
law for all citizens. However, the reality has been nuanced, with challenges
and discrepancies arising in the pursuit of this ideal.
Pointwise Analysis:
- Assertion
(A): Despite constitutional recognition of equality before law, some
Indians are more equal than others.
- Explanation:
This assertion reflects the persistent existence of social, economic, and
political inequalities in India. Despite constitutional guarantees,
factors such as caste, class, religion, and gender often determine one's
access to justice, opportunities, and resources.
- Illustration:
Instances of discrimination, marginalization, and privilege based on
factors like caste-based violence, economic disparities, and unequal
representation in institutions substantiate this assertion.
- Reason
(R): The ideals set out in the Indian Constitution have not yet been
fulfilled.
- Explanation:
The Indian Constitution envisioned a society where every individual would
enjoy equal rights and opportunities irrespective of their background.
However, the realization of these ideals has been hindered by various
socio-political factors, including historical injustices, systemic
biases, and inadequate implementation of laws.
- Illustration:
Persistent social stratification, disparities in education and
healthcare, and incidents of communal tension underscore the gap between
constitutional aspirations and ground realities.
Conclusion: The juxtaposition of
the assertion and the reason underscores the ongoing struggle to achieve true
equality in post-independence India. While the constitutional framework provides
a solid foundation, its effective implementation and addressing systemic
barriers are imperative to bridge the gap between constitutional ideals and
societal realities. Only through concerted efforts to address inequities can
India move closer to realizing the vision of equality envisaged by its founding
fathers.
- In
post-independence India, what constitutional principle aimed to ensure
equal treatment before the law? A) The right to freedom of speech and
expression B) The right to equality C) The right to religious freedom D)
The right to property
Correct Answer: B) The right to
equality
- Which
factor often determines one's access to justice, opportunities, and
resources despite constitutional guarantees in post-independence India? A)
Economic status B) Political affiliation C) Ethnicity D) Educational
background
Correct Answer: C) Ethnicity
- What
is the primary reason for the persistence of social, economic, and
political inequalities in post-independence India? A) Inadequate
constitutional provisions B) Historical injustices C) Lack of awareness
among citizens D) Overreliance on government intervention
Correct Answer: B) Historical
injustices
- What
underscores the gap between constitutional aspirations and ground
realities in post-independence India? A) Government policies B) Social
media influence C) Persistent social stratification D) International
relations
Correct Answer: C) Persistent
social stratification
- How
can post-independence India move closer to realizing the vision of
equality envisaged by its founding fathers? A) By enforcing stricter laws
B) By implementing affirmative action programs C) By promoting caste-based
discrimination D) By prioritizing economic growth over social justice
Correct Answer: B) By
implementing affirmative action programs
