Caste-Based Discrimination: A Persistent Challenge

Definition: Caste-based discrimination refers to the unjust and discriminatory treatment of individuals or groups based on their social caste, which is often determined by birth.

Measures Undertaken:

1. Constitutional Provisions: The Indian Constitution, in its Preamble, guarantees equality and prohibits discrimination based on caste, religion, and other factors.
2. Reservation System: The Indian government has implemented a reservation system for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) to ensure representation and equal opportunities.
3. Anti-Discrimination Laws: The Indian government has enacted laws to prevent discrimination and promote social justice, such as the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.
4. Social Empowerment Programs: Various government programs and schemes have been implemented to empower SCs, STs, and OBCs, such as the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme for SCs and STs.

Recent Examples:

• The Bhima Koregaon Incident: The 2017 Bhima Koregaon incident, where a Dalit group was attacked by a group of upper-caste men, highlighted the persistence of caste-based discrimination.
• The Una Flogging Incident: The 2016 Una flogging incident, where four Dalit men were brutally flogged by a group of upper-caste men for skinning a dead cow, sparked widespread outrage and protests against caste-based discrimination.
• The OBC Reservation Policy: The 2019 OBC reservation policy, which aims to increase the reservation quota for OBCs in educational institutions and government jobs, has been met with controversy and opposition.

Progress Made in Social Empowerment:

• Increased Representation: The reservation system has led to increased representation of SCs, STs, and OBCs in government institutions, educational institutions, and the private sector.
• Improved Socio-Economic Conditions: Social empowerment programs have improved socio-economic conditions for marginalized communities, including increased access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.
• Growing Awareness: Growing awareness about caste-based discrimination and its harmful effects has led to increased activism and advocacy for social change.