Essay on Untouchability
The idea of the caste system is deeply embedded within Indian culture. It's known as one of the oldest civilisations on Earth, with over four thousand years under its belt. However, some scholars argue that this social structure was introduced around 500 BC when they were invaded by Aryan tribes from Central Asia, who brought their rigid class system into play shortly after settling down in the region.
As per tradition, once a person belongs to a specific caste - Brahmin (priests), Kshatriya (Kings/Warriors), Vaishya (traders) or Shudra (farmers and service providers) - he or she is stuck there for life and can never cross over to another rung on the ladder, regardless of individual talent or effort. This is what's known as untouchability which is still prevalent in India today.
Ways to Achieve Untouchability
There are several ways in which one can achieve untouchability. One way is by violating the caste rules and regulations, for example, by marrying someone from a different caste or eating meat (which is strictly forbidden). Another way is by performing unclean tasks such as scavenging or cleaning latrines - jobs that are traditionally reserved for Dalits, also known as "the Untouchables". And lastly, it's possible to become untouchable simply by being born into a low-caste family. Regardless of how it's achieved, the consequences are always the same: social isolation, discrimination and a lifetime of poverty.
Is Untouchability Necessary?
There is no easy answer when it comes to the question of whether or not untouchability is important. On the one hand, you could argue that this discriminatory practice is a violation of human rights and should be abolished immediately. After all, how can we claim to be a civilised society when some of our citizens are treated as second-class citizens? On the other hand, defenders of the caste system might say that it's an essential part of Indian culture and should be preserved at all costs. They would argue that without the caste system, India would descend into chaos and anarchy - a fate worse than death!
The truth probably lies somewhere in between these two extremes. Untouchability is a harmful and unjust practice that needs to be eradicated. However, we can't just abolish it overnight and expect things to go smoothly. There would likely be a period in which chaos and violence erupt on the streets as people fight over power and resources (sound familiar).
Essay on Untouchability
The definition of Untouchability has varied from period to period. Untouchability has been practised from ancient times, dating back to 1500-800 BC. Untouchability is an old concept that has been practised throughout history. It could be defined as the segregation of the group of people from the mainstream based on their caste and subcaste.
The untouchables were called by different names in different times, such as in the Vedic period, they were called ‘Chandala’.In Medieval times they were known as the ‘Achhuta’ and during British rule, they were called “Exterior Caste” or “Depressed Castes”.
The practise of untouchability is based on the caste system in which the untouchables come under the last varna known as Avarnas, which means not belonging to any caste. People belonging to Avarna were given jobs that had no dignity such as gutter cleaners, scavengers, watchmen, sweepers, cleaning animals such as pigs and cows, etc. People of the caste Avarnas are now called Dalits in modern times. They are also known as the “Scheduled Castes”, the name given by the Indian Constitution for their upliftment and development.
Seeing the oppression, the Dalits have faced from society, the government has passed acts that protect them from future violence. Protection of Civil Rights Act 1955 was passed to protect those subjected to untouchability and Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Act 1955 was also passed to provide financial and legal help to the lower caste. Despite the constitutional amendments and the acts passed by the government, untouchability and discrimination based on caste are still followed in many parts of the country. The Dalits living in the cities are less vulnerable compared to those living in rural areas.
The Dalits living in rural areas are not allowed to enter the village as they are believed to pollute the healthy environment of the village. Basic requirements such as drinking water, electricity, etc., are not provided as they are considered to be not good enough. The Dalits living in rural areas have accepted their faith written by such orthodox people because of the fear for their lives and there is no one to help them. The politicians are corrupt who just care about increasing their vote count and gaining power in the government even if it requires sacrificing innocent people who just want to live their life with dignity.
Everyone in the eyes of the law is equal and discrimination in the name of caste and subcaste cannot be tolerated. The government has introduced laws that will help in uplifting the Dalits in society. The constant effort has been made to educate people living in rural areas about basic human rights and how practising untouchability directly violates them. Strict action is taken towards people who don’t allow Dalits in religious places, with no permission to drink water or eat food and beverages. It is important to educate the new generation about these evil practices as that would help in planting a seed that would grow and change the perspective of society.
10 Strategies for Writing a Better Essay on Untouchability
Start by doing your research. Read up on the history of the caste system and understand why it's such a controversial topic and after doing that, you will be in a much better place to form an opinion.
Make sure that you understand what is meant by untouchability. It's not enough to just know the definition; it's also important to familiarise yourself with some of the different ways in which it can be achieved so that you'll have more material for your essay.
Keep your thesis clear and concise. Your thesis should summarise the main points of your essay and argue why they are significant or relevant.
Be creative when thinking of a title for your essay. This will help to capture your reader's attention right from the start.
Write in a clear, concise and easy-to-read manner. Don't overload your reader with too much information at once. Break down your points into manageable chunks and make sure that each paragraph supports your argument.
Use real-life examples to illustrate your points. This will help to make your essay more interesting and engaging.
Don't be afraid to take a stand on this controversial topic. Whether you agree or disagree with the caste system, make sure that your opinion is clear and well-argued.
Plan your essay before you start writing. This will help to ensure that your thoughts are organized and coherent.
Proofread your work carefully for mistakes. A well-written essay is always more impressive than one that is filled with spelling and grammar errors.
Get feedback from a friend or classmate. They can offer helpful insights and suggestions which will improve the quality of your essay.
Conclusion
Everyone should remember that all people are equal in the eyes of the law, and discrimination and intolerance of others based on their caste are not entertained. There is no denying the fact that though the caste system has shaped Indian society for a longer time and possibly it is still doing it. This led to widespread persecution and genetic rights, which continue to this day. We must ensure that the measures taken to remedy the damage caused by such medieval practices will be more effective and will not create further inequality in society.
Writing an essay on Untouchability can be a little intimidating. There are many different perspectives to take into account and not enough time to cover them all. It is important that you do your research and understand the background of this topic, but what if you don't have the time.
FAQs on Essay on Untouchability: Social Reform and Equality
1. What is untouchability and how is it defined as a social evil?
Untouchability is a form of severe social discrimination where certain groups of people are ostracised based on their caste or lineage. It is considered a social evil because it violates basic human rights, denies people dignity and equality, and prevents them from accessing public facilities, education, and employment opportunities, thereby creating deep societal divisions.
2. Which article of the Indian Constitution deals with the abolition of untouchability?
Article 17 of the Indian Constitution explicitly abolishes untouchability and forbids its practice in any form. The enforcement of any disability arising from "Untouchability" is a punishable offence in accordance with the law, highlighting the nation's legal commitment to social equality.
3. What was Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's significant contribution to ending untouchability?
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, himself from a community that faced this discrimination, was a key architect of the Indian Constitution and a relentless crusader against the caste system. He championed the cause of the 'untouchables' by:
- Advocating for their legal and political rights.
- Leading social movements like the Mahad Satyagraha to claim access to public resources.
- Ensuring constitutional safeguards, such as Article 17, to legally abolish the practice.
4. How can I structure an essay on untouchability for maximum clarity and impact?
A well-structured essay on this topic should include:
- An introduction that defines untouchability and states your main argument or thesis.
- A body that discusses its historical roots, the role of social reformers, constitutional provisions, and its modern-day manifestations.
- A conclusion that summarises the key points and offers a final thought on the ongoing need for social reform.
5. Beyond stating facts, how can I make my essay on untouchability more persuasive?
To make your essay more persuasive, move beyond simple facts and focus on building a strong argument. You can do this by including real-world examples or case studies of social reform, quoting key figures like Dr. Ambedkar or Mahatma Gandhi, and analysing the long-term consequences of this discriminatory practice on Indian society. This demonstrates a deeper understanding of the issue.
6. What is the difference between the legal abolition of untouchability and its social eradication?
The legal abolition, achieved through Article 17 of the Constitution, makes the practice of untouchability a punishable crime. However, social eradication refers to removing the prejudice and discriminatory mindset from society itself. While the law provides a framework for justice, true equality is achieved only when social attitudes change through education, awareness, and continuous reform efforts. Your essay can explore this important distinction.
7. How does the constitutional guarantee of 'equality' challenge the core ideas of the caste system and untouchability?
The constitutional promise of equality directly contradicts the hierarchical nature of the caste system. While the caste system assigns status by birth, the principle of equality asserts that all citizens are equal before the law and have equal opportunities, regardless of their background. Untouchability is the most extreme violation of this principle, making the fight for equality a direct challenge to its very existence.
8. What key points should be included in the introduction and conclusion of an essay on social reform and equality?
For the introduction, start with a powerful hook, such as a relevant quote or a fact about social inequality. Clearly define the topic, like untouchability, and briefly state the main points you will cover. For the conclusion, summarise your arguments without introducing new information. Reiterate the importance of social reform and end with a thought-provoking statement about the ongoing journey towards true equality.
