Explain the different forms of untouchability in India. (UPSC CSE Mains 2022 - Sociology, Paper 2)
The hierarchical caste-based Hindu social order was governed by the ideology of purity and pollution. The primary function of the ideology was to maintain ritual hierarchy. Untouchability was a mechanism through which power was exercised over the Dalits and the hierarchy reinforced. One of the most common forms of untouchability was the imposition of social and economic boycott of Dalits if they dared to transgress social norms or exercise their rights.
This discrimination manifests in various forms, some of which are:
- Economic Untouchability: This refers to the practice of denying economic opportunities to members of lower castes, often by denying them access to jobs, housing, or markets.
- Social Untouchability: This refers to the practice of denying social interaction with members of lower castes. Members of upper castes might refuse to share utensils or food with lower-caste individuals, refuse to allow them to enter their homes, or refuse to attend their social gatherings.
- Physical Untouchability: This refers to the practice of maintaining physical distance from members of lower castes. Members of upper castes might refuse to touch lower-caste individuals or their belongings or avoid physical contact with them in any form.
- Educational Untouchability: This refers to the practice of denying education to members of lower castes, often by not allowing them to enter schools or preventing them from studying certain subjects.
- Religious Untouchability: This refers to the practice of excluding members of lower castes from religious activities or denying them entry into religious places.
In terms of J.S.Mill untouchability is ‘tyranny of the majority’.
It is important to note that untouchability has been legally abolished in India, and the Indian Constitution guarantees equality to all citizens. However, it still persists in many parts of the country, particularly in rural areas, and has become a complex social issue.
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