Question

Name the categories of people for whom special steps can be taken by the government.

Answer 1

Special steps have been taken by the government to prevent discrimination against certain groups of people. These are the people belonging to the following categories:

1) Scheduled Castes (SC): In the caste system, the lowest rung of the system is occupied by the scheduled castes. These people were earlier considered as untouchables.

2) Scheduled Tribes (ST): They were the forest dwellers or people who belonged to tribes. They were considered outcastes and were discriminated against.

3) Backward classes and minorities: The people of backward classes are the ones who are socially and economically disadvantaged.

4) Women and children: Due to the mindset of the society, many women are discriminated against. They are denied their basic rights of life and livelihood. Children born in the economically weaker sections of the society are also exploited in the form of child labour ,which in turn, hampers their overall growth. For this, the government has stipulated required laws.

5) Physically challenged people: People with disabilities are treated differently than other people. They are often harassed, taken advantage off or are not given their due rights.

Due to the prevalent discrimination against the above mentioned groups, the constitution has laid down a set of guidelines for their protection.