7.2 - Caste and Social Reform

The caste system has been a significant feature of Indian society for centuries. It has divided people into hierarchical groups based on birth and occupation. This system has often led to social inequalities, discrimination, and exploitation. During the 19th century, social reform movements emerged in India that sought to address these issues, challenging the rigid caste system and advocating for social justice and equality.

The caste system was deeply rooted in Hindu society. People were classified into four main varnas: Brahmins (priests and scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and farmers), and Shudras (laborers and service providers). Below these varnas were the Dalits, previously called "Untouchables," who were considered outside the caste system and faced severe discrimination.

Social reformers, both Hindu and non-Hindu, played a crucial role in challenging these social divisions. They advocated for the upliftment of marginalized communities, especially the Dalits, and called for the abolition of practices like untouchability, child marriage, and Sati (the practice of widows self-immolating on their husbands' funeral pyres). Their efforts helped bring about significant social change in Indian society.

Some key figures in the social reform movement include:

• Raja Ram Mohan Roy - Known as the "Father of the Indian Renaissance," he worked towards abolishing Sati and promoting education for women. He also supported the idea of social equality and opposed the rigid caste system.
• Jyotirao Phule - A social reformer from Maharashtra, Phule worked for the rights of lower castes and women. He founded the Satya Shodhak Samaj, which aimed to eliminate untouchability and promote education for Dalits and women.
• Dr. B.R. Ambedkar - A leader and social reformer who fought for the rights of Dalits. He was instrumental in drafting the Indian Constitution, which abolished untouchability and promoted social justice. Ambedkar's ideas on equality and justice were revolutionary in challenging the caste system.
• Swami Vivekananda - He emphasized the importance of social equality and unity. Vivekananda spoke against caste discrimination and urged people to work together for the development of society.

These reformers used different approaches to address caste-based discrimination:

• Education - Reformers promoted education for all, irrespective of caste. They believed that education was key to breaking the shackles of caste-based discrimination. Schools were established for Dalits, and efforts were made to improve the quality of education for women and marginalized communities.
• Abolition of Untouchability - The fight against untouchability was central to the social reform movement. Leaders like Ambedkar demanded legal measures to protect Dalits from discrimination and social exclusion. This led to significant legal reforms after independence.
• Social and Religious Movements - Reform movements like the Arya Samaj, Brahmo Samaj, and the Prarthana Samaj advocated for social reforms within the Hindu religion, challenging traditional caste norms and promoting equality.
• Inter-caste Marriages - Reformers encouraged inter-caste marriages as a way to break down caste barriers and promote social integration.

The Indian Constitution, which came into effect in 1950, laid the legal framework for the abolition of untouchability and promoted equality for all citizens. Article 15 of the Constitution prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth, and Article 17 abolished untouchability.

Despite these efforts, caste-based discrimination still persists in some parts of India. However, the social reform movements of the 19th and 20th centuries laid the foundation for the ongoing struggle for social justice and equality in India.