Chapter 3: Equality
- What is equality?
Equality means that every individual is given the same status, rights, and opportunities, regardless of caste, class, gender, or religion. - Why is equality important in democracy?
Democracy is based on the idea of political and social equality. It ensures that every citizen has equal participation in governance and public life. - What are the different types of equality?
- Political Equality
- Social Equality
- Economic Equality
- Legal Equality
- What is political equality?
Political equality ensures that every citizen has equal voting rights and access to political power, regardless of background. - What is social equality?
Social equality means no discrimination based on caste, gender, religion, or race in public or private spheres. - What is economic equality?
Economic equality refers to reducing the gap between rich and poor so that everyone has basic economic security and opportunities. - What is legal equality?
It means all individuals are equal before the law and enjoy equal protection under the law without any bias. - What is the difference between equality and uniformity?
Equality means fair treatment with respect to individual needs, while uniformity means treating everyone the same, regardless of their differences. - How does inequality affect society?
Inequality creates divisions, social conflict, and denies many people their dignity and rights, harming unity and development. - What is the principle of fairness?
The idea that people should be treated justly, not necessarily equally in all respects, but according to need and merit. - What is affirmative action?
Affirmative action is a policy to uplift disadvantaged groups by giving them extra support or reservation in jobs and education. - Why is affirmative action needed?
It addresses historical injustices and provides equal opportunity to marginalized communities like SCs, STs, and women. - What is Article 15 of the Indian Constitution?
It prohibits discrimination on the grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. - What is Article 16?
It guarantees equality of opportunity in public employment and allows for reservations to uplift the backward classes. - How can education promote equality?
Education empowers people to access opportunities and reduces social and economic gaps over time. - What is social justice?
Social justice ensures fair treatment and equal access to resources for all, especially for the weaker sections of society. - What is discrimination?
Unfair treatment of individuals based on caste, gender, religion, or class, denying them equal rights and dignity. - How does caste affect equality in India?
Caste hierarchy creates deep-rooted inequality by restricting access to education, jobs, and social respect for lower castes. - What is gender inequality?
Discrimination and unequal treatment based on gender, particularly against women in education, employment, and public roles. - What is economic disparity?
It is the unequal distribution of income and wealth among individuals or groups in a society. - Why is equality before law important?
It ensures fairness in justice delivery and protects individuals from arbitrary treatment by authorities. - What is dignity of individual?
Every human being deserves respect and equal consideration, forming the basis of equality in society. - What is the role of state in promoting equality?
The state enacts laws, provides welfare schemes, and implements affirmative action to ensure social and economic equality. - Can equality be absolute?
No, absolute equality is neither possible nor desirable. Fair and just treatment based on needs and capabilities is preferred. - How is equality ensured in a democratic constitution?
Through Fundamental Rights, legal safeguards, independent judiciary, and welfare policies. - What is equal respect?
Equal respect means every person’s opinions, beliefs, and identities are valued without prejudice or discrimination. - What is equality of opportunity?
It means giving everyone a fair chance to compete and succeed, with help provided to those historically disadvantaged. - What is the role of laws in reducing inequality?
Laws prohibit discrimination, ensure fair wages, promote education, and provide reservation to bring balance in society. - What is the challenge of equality in modern societies?
Persistent poverty, discrimination, unequal access to healthcare, education, and jobs still create significant gaps between groups. - How can citizens promote equality?
By treating others with fairness, rejecting discriminatory practices, supporting inclusive policies, and raising voice against injustice.