Question

Discuss the caste inequalities prevailing in India from ancient times.

Answer 1

Caste inequalities have been prevalent in India since ancient times. Indian society was divided into a hierarchy of four castes or varnas. The social status of the person in the society depended on his birth in one of these varnas.

The so-called upper castes enjoyed all kinds of privileges while the lower castes were denied of any rights. Upper castes considered themselves as superior and called the lower castes as untouchables.

In ancient society, the upper castes were exempted from tax, were educated and had better work opportunities.

The lower castes, on the other hand, were not allowed to mingle with the upper castes, lived in separate areas, were denied education and were made to do menial works. They lived in unhygienic conditions and were often denied medical help.

This continued even after the arrival of the British. B.R. Ambedkar and Gandhiji raised their voices against this kind of discrimination and fought for equality.

Even though untouchability has been prohibited, it is still practiced in some areas of India. The Constitution of India has given certain rights to the lower classes in the hope of completely putting an end to this inhuman practice.