Q: Explain the different forms of untouchability in India.

Model Answer:

Forms of Untouchability in India

Untouchability in India is a complex social issue that has its roots in the caste system, which has been prevalent in the country for centuries. The caste system is a hierarchical social order that divides people into different groups or castes based on their birth, occupation, and social status. Untouchability refers to the social practice of ostracizing a particular group of people, who are considered to be at the lowest rung of the caste hierarchy, and are deemed “untouchable” by the higher castes.

Untouchability in India manifests in various forms, which can be summarized as follows:

1. Occupational untouchability: This form of untouchability is based on the traditional occupations of the lower castes, which are considered to be impure or polluting. These occupations include manual scavenging, cleaning sewers, disposing of dead animals, and leatherwork. People engaged in these occupations are often treated as untouchables and face discrimination and exclusion from the rest of society.
2. Social untouchability: This form of untouchability is based on the social status of the lower castes, who are considered to be inferior and are subjected to various forms of discrimination. They are often denied access to public spaces, such as temples, schools, and water sources, and are forced to live in segregated areas. They are also subjected to various forms of social exclusion, such as not being allowed to participate in community events, marriages, and other social gatherings.
3. Economic untouchability: This form of untouchability is related to the economic exploitation of the lower castes by the higher castes. They are often forced to work in low-paying, menial jobs and are denied access to better employment opportunities. They are also subjected to various forms of economic discrimination, such as being charged higher prices for goods and services, and being denied access to credit and other financial services.
4. Educational untouchability: This form of untouchability is related to the denial of educational opportunities to the lower castes. They are often denied admission to schools and colleges, and face discrimination and harassment from teachers and fellow students. This leads to high dropout rates and low levels of literacy and educational attainment among the lower castes.
5. Political untouchability: This form of untouchability is related to the exclusion of the lower castes from the political process. They are often denied the right to vote, and face discrimination and violence during elections. They are also underrepresented in political institutions and decision-making bodies, which further marginalizes them and perpetuates their social and economic exclusion.
6. Religious untouchability: This form of untouchability is related to the religious beliefs and practices that perpetuate the caste system and untouchability. The lower castes are often considered to be impure and are denied access to religious institutions and rituals. They are also subjected to various forms of religious discrimination, such as being denied entry to temples and other places of worship, and being excluded from religious ceremonies and festivals.

Despite the legal abolition of untouchability in India through the Constitution and various laws, these different forms of untouchability continue to persist in various parts of the country. The persistence of untouchability is a major obstacle to social and economic development, and efforts to address this issue require a multi-pronged approach that includes legal, social, and economic interventions.