Centuries of struggle against casteism in the Indian social system laid the foundation for the great socialist reformers who fought for equality. Among these reformers, Mahatma Gandhi emerged as a unifying force, awakening the nation to the rampant discrimination prevalent during the freedom movement. Gandhi’s tireless efforts, including his journey from Wardha to Cuttack in 1933, aimed to combat discrimination and advocate for the rights of Dalits to enter temples. The framers of India’s Constitution, recognizing Gandhi’s lifelong fight against untouchability and casteism, enshrined the abolition of untouchability in Article 17. Furthermore, Article 15 safeguarded citizens from selective discrimination, regardless of their caste, religion, community, sex, or place of birth. These constitutional provisions aimed to eliminate caste discrimination, uplift the marginalized, and foster a more equitable society.
Constitutional Protection against Discrimination
The formation of the Constituent Assembly marked a significant moment for independent India. The framers of the Constitution acknowledged the struggles of Mahatma Gandhi and his commitment to fighting untouchability and caste discrimination. By abolishing untouchability through Article 17, they sent a powerful message against social oppression. Additionally, Article 15 (formerly Article 11) clearly instructed governments that no citizen should face discrimination based on caste, religion, community, sex, or place of birth. This provision ensured equal rights for all individuals, regardless of their background. Both public and private establishments, such as shops, hotels, and restaurants, were required to treat citizens equally. The aim was to provide a level playing field and eliminate discrimination based on caste, religion, community, and gender. To address caste discrimination and uplift the downtrodden, the Constitution also provided constitutional protection, civil service and representation systems, and reservations for the oppressed and tribal communities.
The Constituent Assembly’s Deliberations
During the Constituent Assembly’s discussions on Article 15, several members played crucial roles in denouncing untouchability as a disease responsible for India’s social degradation. Notable figures such as Nashiruddin Ahmad, Muniswami Pillai, and Mohan Das highlighted the damaging effects of untouchability and the role played by landlords and the noble class in perpetuating this injustice. Muniswami Pillai emphasized the plight of the oppressed classes, who were often forced to seek refuge in alternative spiritual paths due to the severe social oppression they faced. Dr. Manmohan Das, another participant in the discussion, stressed the importance of Article 15 as a fundamental right, providing constitutional protection to one-sixth of the country’s citizens. He invoked Gandhi’s statement, expressing his willingness to be reborn as a Harijan to fight against exploitation and oppression throughout his life. Shri Das, in his contribution, shed light on the awakening of social reforms led by great thinkers like Swami Vivekananda, Rabindranath Tagore, and Raja Rammohan Ray, emphasizing that Article 15 and 17 would bring peace to their souls.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: A Champion of Social Dignity
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the law minister and a constitutionalist who himself experienced untouchability, emerged as a leading figure in the drafting of the Constitution. Drawing from his painful personal experiences, Ambedkar recognized the importance of constitutional safeguards to protect the social dignity and rights of the oppressed. He argued that true harmony in society could only be achieved by providing equality and protection to a large section of the population. Ambedkar advocated for the inclusion of political rights in the constitutional framework, enabling the participation of the neglected and oppressed classes in governance. Under his guidance, the Constituent Assembly unanimously adopted the provisions related to untouchability, leading to chants of ‘Mahatma Gandhiki Jai’ reverberating through the House. In his final speech during the finalization of the draft constitution, Dr. Ambedkar emphasized the trinity of liberty, equality, and fraternity as the cornerstone of a successful democracy. He emphasized the need to eliminate existing social divisions and cautioned against the abandonment of political democracy if inequality persisted.
Historical Context and Social Reformers
The fight against untouchability and the caste system extended beyond the freedom movement, with numerous social reformers and public leaders striving for change. Raja Rammohan Roy, Mahatma Jyot Rao Phule, Periyar E.V. Ramaswamy Naiker, Dr. CN Mudaliar, Narayan Guru Magar, and others dedicated their lives to challenging discriminatory practices. Raja Rammohan Roy, in particular, faced significant social backlash for his efforts to awaken society against superstitions. The reform movements led by these individuals, such as Jyotiba Phule’s establishment of the “Satishodhak Samaj” in 1873, played a crucial role in liberating women and advocating for the rights of oppressed classes. The Harijan Sevak Sangam, led by A.V. Chakkar, witnessed the active involvement of Odisha’s freedom fighters, including Ramadevi, Lakshmi Narayan Mishra, Bichitrananda Das, Gopabandhu Chowdhury, Nilgok Das, and Radhanath Rath Major. Other influential figures like Jayamangal Rath and Mohan Nayak of Ganjam worked diligently to raise public awareness against caste discrimination. Their collective efforts and the establishment of educational institutions, such as the ashram for the development of downtrodden castes, contributed significantly to societal progress.
Understanding Untouchability and Caste Discrimination
Further research is necessary to comprehensively analyze untouchability as a prevailing disorder in society. Ancient texts indicate instances of non-racial discrimination in Puranic times. For example, the lineage of characters like Sri Krishna demonstrates that diversity existed even among gods. The division of society based on work eventually led to the corruption of the class system and the birth of caste discrimination, which has plagued Indian society for centuries. However, it is essential to note that Indian culture, food, and behavior remain largely similar across the country. Caste discrimination, therefore, raises questions about its origins and necessity. Examples from mythology, such as the birth of twin incarnations Vishnu and Maheshvara to eradicate caste-religious divisions, provide further insights into society’s struggle against discrimination. These stories symbolize the liberation of the oppressed classes from exploitation. Furthermore, historical figures like Mirabai, Saint poet Bhim Bhoi, and the teachings of Swami Vivekananda and Narayan exemplify the rejection of caste discrimination and the promotion of unity and equality within human society.
Gandhi’s Vision for a Discrimination-Free Society
Gandhi’s dream of rural self-sufficiency, emphasizing strength, non-violence, and truth, aimed to create villages free from discrimination. His principles and ideals, centered on equality, harmony, and societal development, aligned with the constitutional goals set forth by India. By embracing these values, the nation aspires to transform the foundation of Sanatan Dharma, where “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family) becomes a reality, and the values of universality and impartiality guide the creation of a harmonious universe.
Conclusion
Gandhi’s philosophy and unwavering commitment to equality profoundly influenced India’s Constitution. The constitutional provisions, including the abolition of untouchability and the guarantee of equal rights, reflect the nation’s desire for a just and inclusive society. Driven by principles of non-violence, truth, and rural self-sufficiency, Gandhi’s vision aligns with the constitutional goal of transforming India into a harmonious and egalitarian society. By embracing these principles, the nation moves closer to realizing the true essence of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” and fostering unity and equality, which lie at the core of Sanatan Dharma.
