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Social Justice

Last updated on May 1, 2024 by ClearIAS Team

Justice in terms of wealth distribution, opportunities, and privileges in society is termed social justice. At its sixty-second session, in November 2007, the General Assembly of the United Nations proclaimed 20 February as World Day of Social Justice. Read here to understand social justice.

The World Day of Social Justice Day was observed for the first time on 20 February 2009.

On June 10, 2008, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) endorsed the ILO Declaration on Social Justice for Equitable Globalization. This is the International Labour Conference’s third major declaration of principles and policy since the ILO’s Constitution of 1919.

The observance of the day is intended to contribute to the further consolidation of the efforts of the international community in poverty eradication, promotion of full employment and decent work, gender equity, and access to social well-being and justice for all.

Table of Contents

What is Social Justice?

A fair and equal distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges in society is referred to as social justice.

• Once a theological idea, it is now more loosely understood to refer to the just arrangement of social structures that provide access to financial advantages. It is also known as distributive justice.
• It emphasizes fairness in how society divides its social resources.
• Gender inequality, racism, and LGBTQ+ discrimination are frequent subjects of social justice advocacy.
• Social justice establishes rights and obligations within societal institutions, allowing everyone to share in the advantages and costs of collaboration.
• Taxation, social insurance, public health, public education, public services, labor legislation, and market regulation are common examples of pertinent institutions that help assure equitable opportunity and wealth distribution.

The concept of Social Justice has been in place since the ancient ages when Plato and related philosophers wrote about it.

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• Plato wrote in The Republic that it would be an ideal state that “every member of the community must be assigned to the class for which he finds himself best fitted.”
• Plato believed rights existed only between free people, and the law should take “account in the first instance of relations of inequality in which individuals are treated in proportion to their worth and only secondarily of relations of equality.”
• Socrates (through Plato’s dialogue Crito) is credited with developing the idea of a social contract, whereby people ought to follow the rules of society, and accept its burdens because they have accepted its benefits.

Significance of Social Justice

Poverty and inequalities within and among countries are on the rise in many parts of the world.

• The economic and social crises of recent years have been exacerbated by the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic , natural disasters due to accelerating climate change , geopolitical tensions, and armed conflicts.
• Beyond the human tragedies associated with them and their impact on the world of work, these crises have highlighted the interlinkages and dependencies of economies and societies around the world and shown the crucial need for concerted action to respond to them, at global, regional, and national levels.
• Important global changes have led to growing disruptions in economies linked to globalization and technology, significant demographic transformations, increasing migration flows, and prolonged situations of fragility.
• The need of the hour is to curb the growing divide between problems and solutions and call for more inclusive and networked multilateralism, re-embracing global solidarity and renewing the social contract between governments and their people and within societies with a comprehensive approach to human rights.
• Social justice makes societies and economies function better and reduces poverty, inequalities, and social tensions.
• It plays an important role in attaining more inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development paths and is key for reaching the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (2030 Agenda), especially at a time when the achievement of those goals remains far away.
• Hence, social justice must become one of the pillars of the revitalized multilateralism that is needed; it must serve as a unifying ideal as well as a key tool for a more effective multilateral system, maintaining coherence across a variety of policy areas.

World Day of Social Justice

2023 Theme: Overcoming Barriers and Unleashing Opportunities for Social Justice

• The 2023 World Day of Social Justice provides an opportunity to foster dialogue with UN Member States, youth, social partners, civil society, UN organizations, and other stakeholders on actions needed to strengthen the social contract that has been fractured by rising inequalities, conflicts, and weakened institutions that are meant to protect the rights of workers.
• Despite these multiple crises, there are many opportunities to build a coalition for social justice and to unleash greater investments in decent jobs, with a particular focus on the green, digital, and care economy, and young people.

Social justice in India

The problem of social justice is associated with social equality and the constitution makers were strongly affected by the feeling of social equality and social justice at the time of the independence.

• The terms, like Socialist, Secular, Democratic, and Republic, were inserted in the Preamble for the same cause.
• Social justice denotes that all people are treated fairly without any social distinction. This ensures that the absence of privilege is limited to every specific segment of society and the conditions of poor classes (SCs, STs, and OBCs) and women are strengthened.
• It involves eliminating glaring disparities in wealth, pay, and property. What is referred to as “distributive justice” is a combination of social and economic fairness. All Indians are guaranteed equality of opportunity and status under the Preamble.
• Social injustice is a critical problem in Indian society. The analysis of a society’s social stratification based on either caste or class is primarily concerned with the definition of inequality.

The constitution guarantees social justice to the people of the country through articles:

• Article 15(1) forbids discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth
• Article 16 (1) ensures equal opportunity for all
• Article 17 states that untouchability has been abolished and prohibits its existence
• Article 19 enshrines the fundamental rights of the country’s people
• Articles 23 and 24 provide for fundamental rights against exploitation.
• Article 38 directs the State to secure a social order for the promotion of the welfare of the people
• Article 41 entails the Right to work, to education, and public assistance in certain cases

Government initiatives

NGOs Schemes

• Scheme of Grant in Aid to Voluntary Organisations working for Scheduled Castes
• National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction
• Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY)
• Scheme of National Awards for Outstanding Services in the field of Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse
• Implementation Framework of National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction

Educational Schemes

• National Fellowship for OBC Students (NF-OBC)
• Ambedkar Scheme of Interest Subsidy on Educational Loan for Overseas Studies for OBCs & EBCs
• National Overseas Scholarship
• National Fellowship for Scheduled Caste Students
• Free Coaching Scheme for SC and OBC Students
• Babu Jagjivan Ram Chhatrawas Yojana (BJRCY)
• Pre-Matric Scholarship for OBC Students
• Scholarships for Higher Education for Young Achievers Scheme (SHREYAS) (OBC &Others) – 2021-22 to 2025-26.
• PM young achievers’ scholarship award scheme for vibrant India for OBCs and others (PM -YASASVI)
• Scholarship for PM CARES children

Schemes for Economic Development

• Entrepreneurial Schemes of NBCFDC
• Credit Enhancement Guarantee Scheme for the Scheduled Castes (SCs)
• National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSKFDC)
• National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC)
• Scheme of Assistance to Scheduled Castes Development Corporations (SCDCs)
• Self-Employment Scheme for Rehabilitation of Manual Scavengers (SRMS)
• Pradhan Mantri Dakshta Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi (PM-DAKSH) Yojana

Schemes for Social Empowerment

• Centrally Sponsored Scheme for implementation of the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955, and the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989
• Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAGY)
• Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise (SMILE)
• Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojna (PM-AJAY)

Also read: Children and Armed Conflict

Way forward

To make social justice an effective tool for social advancement, it is vital to guarantee that policies are implemented correctly and fairly.

Liberalism prioritizes freedom, but it is aware that this freedom is meaningless unless it is supported by a sense of security and equality.

A liberal social policy should work to increase opportunity for the most disadvantaged while also building a social safety net that makes it easier for them to handle emergencies.

Also read:  International Labour Day

-Article written by Swathi Satish

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Social Justice (UPSC Mains) - Previous Year Questions

• The crucial aspect of development process has been the inadequate attention paid to Human Resource Development in India. Suggest measures that can address this inadequacy.
• Discuss the contribution of civil society groups for women's effective and meaningful participation and representation in state legislatures in India.
• "Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory in approach." Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer.
• Skill development programmes have succeeded in increasing human resources supply to various sectors. In the context of the statement analyse the linkages between education, skill and employment.
• The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 remains only a legal document without intense sensitisation of government functionaries and citizens regarding disability. Comment.
• Besides the welfare schemes, India needs deft management of inflation and unemployment to serve the poor and the underprivileged sections of the society. Discuss.
• Do you agree with the view that increasing dependence on donor agencies for development reduces the importance of community participation in the development process? Justify your answer.
• The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 remains inadequate in promoting incentive-based system for children's education without generating awareness about the importance of schooling. Analyse.
• 'Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development." Analyze.
• "Earn while you learn’ scheme needs to be strengthened to make vocational education and skill training meaningful." Comment.
• Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty and malnutrition be broken through microfinancing of women SHGs? Explain with examples.
• “Though women in post-Independent India have excelled in various fields, the social attitude towards women and feminist movement has been patriarchal." Apart from women education and women empowerment schemes, what interventions can help change this milieu?
• Can Civil Society and non-Governmental Organizations present an alternative model of public service delivery to benefit the common citizen? Discuss the challenges of this alternative model.
• Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas, coupled with lack of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) accessibility hindered socio-economic development? Examine with justification.
• In order to enhance the prospects of social development, sound and adequate health care policies are needed particularly in the fields of geriatric and maternal health care. Discuss.
• Critically examine the role of WHO in providing global health security during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• “The incidence and intensity of poverty are more important in determining poverty based on income alone”. In this context analyse the latest United Nations Multidimensional Poverty Index Report.
• “Micro-Finance as an anti-poverty vaccine, is aimed at asset creation and income security of the rural poor in India”. Evaluate the role of Self-Help Groups in achieving the twin objectives along with empowering women in rural India.
• National Education Policy 2020 is in conformity with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient education system in India. Critically examine the statement.
• Despite Consistent experience of High growth, India still goes with the lowest indicators of human development. Examine the issues that make balanced and inclusive development elusive.
• There is a growing divergence in the relationship between poverty and hunger in India. The shrinking of social expenditure by the government is forcing the poor to spend more on Non- Food essential items squeezing their food – budget. Elucidate.
• “The reservation of seats for women in the institutions of local self- government has had a limited impact on the patriarchal character of the Indian Political Process.” Comment.
• ‘In the context of neo-liberal paradigm of development planning, multi-level planning is expected to make operations cost effective and remove many implementation blockages.’-Discuss.
• The need for cooperation among various service sector has been an inherent component of development discourse. Partnership bridges bring the gap among the sectors. It also sets in motion a culture of ‘Collaboration’ and ‘team spirit’. In the light of statements above examine India’s Development process.
• Performance of welfare schemes that are implemented for vulnerable sections is not so effective due to absence of their awareness and active involvement at all stages of policy process – Discuss.
• “The long-sustained image of India as a leader of the oppressed and marginalised Nations has disappeared on account of its new found role in the emerging global order.” Elaborate.
• Appropriate local community-level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve 'Health for All' in India. Explain.
• Multiplicity of various commissions for the vulnerable sections of the society to problems of overlapping jurisdiction and duplication of functions. Is it better to merge all commissions into an umbrella Human Rights Commission? Argue your case.
• How far do you agree with the view that the focus on lack of availability of food as the main cause of hunger takes the attention away from ineffective human development policies in India?
• ‘To ensure effective implementation of policies addressing water, sanitation and hygiene needs, the identification of beneficiary segments is to be synchronized with the anticipated outcomes’ Examine the statement in the context of the WASH scheme.
• Does the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 ensure effective mechanism for empowerment and inclusion of the intended beneficiaries in the society? Discuss.
• Is the National Commission for Women able to strategize and tackle the problems that women face at both public and private spheres? Give reasons in support of your answer.
• ‘Poverty Alleviation Programmes in India remain mere show pieces until and unless they are backed by political will’. Discuss with reference to the performance of the major poverty alleviation programmes in India.
• Professor Amartya Sen has advocated important reforms in the realms of primary education and primary health care. What are your suggestions to improve their status and performance?
• Examine the main provisions of the National Child Policy and throw light on the status of its implementation.
• “Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative.” What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable?
• The Self-Help Group (SHG) Bank Linkage Programme (SBLP). which is India's own innovation, has proved to be one of the most effective poverty alleviation and women empowerment programmes. Elucidate.
• How can the role of NGOs be strengthened in India for development works relating to protection of the environment? Discuss throwing light on the major constraints.
• The quality of higher education in India requires major improvements to make it internationally competitive. Do you think that the entry of foreign educational institutions would help improve the quality of higher and technical education in the country? Discuss.
• Public health system has limitations in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that the private sector could help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives would you suggest?
• Though there have been several different estimates of poverty in India, all indicate reduction in poverty levels over time. Do you agree? Critically examine with reference to urban and rural poverty indicators.
• The penetration of Self Help Groups (SHGs) in rural areas in promoting participation in development programmes is facing socio-cultural hurdles. Examine.
• Do government’s schemes for up-lifting vulnerable and backward communities by protecting required social resources for them, lead to their exclusion in establishing businesses in urban economics?
• An athlete participates in Olympics for personal triumph and nation’s glory; victors are showered with cash incentives by various agencies, on their return. Discuss the merit of state sponsored talent hunt and its cultivation as against the rationale of a reward mechanism as encouragement.
• Should the premier institutes like IITs/IIMs be allowed to retain premier status, allowed more academic independence in designing courses and also decide mode/criteria of selection of students. Discuss in light of the growing challenges.
• Two parallel run schemes of the Government viz. the Adhaar Card and NPR, one as voluntary and the other as compulsory, have led to debates at national levels and also litigations. On merits, discuss whether or not both schemes need run concurrently. Analyse the potential of the schemes to achieve developmental benefits and equitable growth.
• The concept of Mid Day Meal (MDM) scheme is almost a century old in India with early beginnings in Madras Presidency in pre-independent India. The scheme has again been given impetus in most states in the last two decades. Critically examine its twin objectives, latest mandates and success.
• The Central Government frequently complains on the poor performance of the State Governments in eradicating suffering of the vulnerable sections of the society. Restructuring of Centrally sponsored schemes across the sectors for ameliorating the cause of vulnerable sections of population aims at providing flexibility to the States in better implementation. Critically evaluate.
• Electronic cash transfer system for the welfare schemes is an ambitious project to minimize corruption, eliminate wastage and facilitate reforms. Comment.
• The basis of providing urban amenities in rural areas (PURA) is rooted in establishing connectivity. Comment.
• Identify the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that are related to health. Discuss the success of the actions taken by the Government for achieving the same.

Trending now

Social Justice Previous Year Questions (PYQs) | UPSC Mains Examination

• 1.1 Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections:
• 1.2 Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources: 
• 1.3 Trend of social justice previous year questions (PYQs) for UPSC Mains
• 1.4 Share this:

On this page you will find all the updates related to the previous year questions of subject Social Justice for UPSC IAS Mains examination.

The UPSC Mains examination General Studies Paper 2 delves into questions related to social issues encompassing areas such as the Indian education system, social empowerment, gender inequality, digital education, and social welfare.

Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections:

Topic: issues relating to development and management of social sector/services relating to health, education, human resources: .

Q.2) The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 remains inadequate in promoting incentive-based system for children’s education without generating awareness about the importance of schooling. Analyse. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2022]

Q.3) “Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyze. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2021]

Q.4) National Education Policy 2020 is in conformity with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030).It intends to restructure and reorient education system in India. Critically examine the statement. [250 Words] [15 Marks] [2020]

Q.5) In order to enhance the prospects of social development, sound and adequate health care policies are needed particularly in the fields of geriatric and maternal health care. Discuss. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2020]

Q.6) Despite Consistent experience of High growth, India still goes with the lowest indicators of human development. Examine the issues that make balanced and inclusive development elusive. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2019]

Q.7) Appropriate local community level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2018]

Q.8) Professor Amartya Sen has advocated important reforms in the realms of primary education and primary health care. What are your suggestions to improve their status and performance? [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]

Q.9) “Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative.” What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable? [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]

Q.10) The quality of higher education in India requires major improvement to make it internationally competitive. Do you think that the entry of foreign educational institutions would help improve the quality of technical and higher education in the country. Discuss. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks][2015]

Q.11) Public health system has limitation in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]

Q.12) Should the premier institutes like IITs/IIMs be allowed to retain premier status, allowed more academic independence in designing courses and also decide mode/criteria of selection of students. Discuss in light of the growing challenges. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2014]

Q.13) Identify the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that are related to health. Discuss the success of the actions taken by the Government for achieving the same. [200 Words] [10 Marks] [2013]

Trend of social justice previous year questions (PYQs) for UPSC Mains

Social justice as a subject carry weightage of around 10-15 marks in Mains examination. Since last 4-5 years, around 2-4 questions  are asked from this section.

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[Essay Topic- 6 Mains 2020] There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless.

Introduction, the intricate dance between economic prosperity and social justice has been a central theme in socio-political discourses throughout history. the statement, “there can be no social justice without economic prosperity, but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless,” captures the essence of this relationship, emphasizing the mutual dependence of wealth and fairness., thesis statement, while economic prosperity can provide the resources necessary to achieve social justice, it is the equitable distribution and access to these resources that bestows true meaning and value to prosperity., crux/meaning of the essay, this essay seeks to unravel the intertwined relationship between economic growth and social equity, arguing that the mere presence of wealth in a society is insufficient unless accompanied by justice, fairness, and inclusivity., different dimensions, foundations of social justice: economic prosperity ensures that resources are available. however, social justice ensures that these resources are distributed fairly, allowing all members of society to benefit. meaningful prosperity: wealth and economic growth in a society become meaningful when they uplift all, reduce disparities, and bridge divides, emphasizing the role of social justice in giving value to economic prosperity. sustainability: economic prosperity that doesn’t account for social justice is often short-lived. disparities can lead to social unrest, which in turn can destabilize economies., different perspectives, the economist’s view: they might argue that economic growth is a prerequisite for comprehensive social welfare programs, quality education, healthcare, and other foundations of social justice. the social activist’s perspective: they would stress that economic growth, if not inclusive, can exacerbate inequalities, making the pursuit of social justice even more challenging. the historian’s lens: looking through the annals of history, one can find numerous instances where economic prosperity was hollow due to the absence of social justice, often leading to revolutions, rebellions, and societal upheavals., significance in current context, in an age marked by increasing globalization, the disparity in wealth, and heightened awareness of social injustices, the balance between economic prosperity and social justice is more pertinent than ever. achieving this balance is not just a moral imperative but is crucial for ensuring societal stability, peace, and sustainable progress., economic prosperity and social justice are two sides of the same coin. while prosperity can lay the groundwork for a just society, it is the principles of equity, fairness, and justice that breathe life and meaning into this prosperity. for a society to truly flourish, it must recognize that wealth, in isolation, is an empty metric; its true value is realized only when paired with the principles of justice and inclusivity., related posts:.

• [Essay Topic- 7 Mains 2023] A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity.
• [Essay Topic- 5 Mains 2020] Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have.
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Social Justice Notes - IAS Preparation

Amruta Patil

Aug 9, 2024

IAS Exam Latest Updates

• 09 August, 2024 : UPSC Mains Schedule 2024 Out; Exam from September 20

GS Paper2 of the UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination includes a section on Social justice. Also, Social Justice related questions are also asked in UPSC Preliminary Examination.

A fair and just relationship between individuals and society is referred to as social justice. In its most basic form, social justice refers to the equitable distribution of money, opportunities, and advantages within a society. Its goal is to use the rule of law to address the problem of socioeconomic inequality.

The syllabus of Social Justice may appear to be a bit convoluted, posing a challenge in obtaining marks if not studied from the appropriate source. We have created Social Justice Notes for the UPSC Civil Services examination. These Notes are also useful for other Governmental Exams like States Civil Services Examinations and Other Departmental Exams.

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How to Study Indian Society & Social Justice For UPSC Mains

India is a country that is marked by humongous variety in virtually every aspect of social life. India witnesses diversities in terms of ethnic, linguistic, regional, economic, religious, class, and caste groups. This diversity is also permeated with immense urban-rural differences and gender distinctions. India is perhaps one country in the world where changes are found in terms of caste, language and culture. Multifaceted nature of Indian society makes it distinguishable from other great and old civilization of world. Despite the widespread diversity and complex nature of Indian life prevalent cultural practices bind them into one thread of social harmony and order.

Apart from Indian History, World History, and Physical Geography, Indian society and social justice has also been given a significant place in GS Paper -1 of UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam . Indian society and social justice could appear an easy section for those aspirants who have taken Sociology subject as their optional but for others this portion might appear a bit cumbersome and hence could pose difficulties in fetching marks. Before jumping to the strategy for Indian society and social justice it is important to understand the UPSC syllabus of Indian Society .

Syllabus of Indian Society:

Indian Society has been put in GS mains paper 1 along with History, World History, and Geography. However as per the UPSC syllabus one has to focus on certain key areas only that have been mentioned below:

• Salient features of  Indian Society , Diversity of India.
• Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and
• Developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies.
• Effects of globalization on Indian society
• Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism.

Books and Resources:

Indian Society has been included in the syllabus of UPSC mains exam along with Social Justice . Before moving to standard books it is advisable to go through NCERT books to get some basic idea about society and problems plaguing the society. The following NCERT books must be referred to strengthen the basics:

• NCERT Class 11 – Introducing Sociology
• NCERT Class 11 – Understanding Society
• NCERT Class 12 – Indian Society
• NCERT Class 12 – Social Change & Development in India

Advance Books and Resources:

• IGNOU Material – Development
• IGNOU Material – Sociology
• Social Problems in India – Ram Ahuja.
• Indian Society (A General Overview) - Dr. B Ramaswamy
• Online Study Materials and PDFs provided by GS Score.
• Newspapers like The Hindu and The Indian Express for current updates
• Magazines EPW and Frontline

Note: Keep a close vigil on social happenings, new bills related to the society etc. Only an outline of the areas to be covered under the section and strategy to cover them is discussed in this article.

Strategy To Cover Indian Society:

Indian Society is perhaps one of the easiest section in GS Paper 1 as it aims to check your perception and analytical approach to Indian Society and its problems. Unlike other sections it does not demand very precise knowledge and mugged up facts. UPSC has included this section in the exam just to see how you will respond to a section of society and the problems faced by the people belonging to specific section of the Indian Society .

An easy way to identify the features of Indian Society is to take a broader look from outside. One need to have a bird eye view to understand the intricacies. As a beginner, assume the perspective of a foreigner visiting India and try to see Indian Society through his eyes.

Diversity of Indian Society

Diversity in Indian Society is multifaceted but UPSC has emphasized on only few areas that need to be prepared. UPSC has included the following diversities exclusively in its syllabus:

Diversity in terms of:

• Language – 22 scheduled Languages and various minor languages and dialects.
• Religion – 80% Hindus, 14 % Muslims, 2 % Christians, 2 % Sikhs etc.
• Race – Aryan, Dravidian, Mongoloids, Negritoes, etc
• Culture etc.

The next important area is the  problems in Indian Society . Is Indian Society well and fine? Are we all civilized and developed? Do all sections of people think in a rational and scientific way? Are we a society of peace and freedom? Are there people who live in poverty, illiteracy, exploitation etc?

Problems of Indian Society

Society without problems and issues is beyond imagination. The society is an amalgamation of many things such as caste, culture, races, languages etc. Indian Society too has been plagued with many issues and problems due to prevailing diversity. Casteism is one of the problems that has further sprouted many other issues and problems. A deep rooted Caste System is unique to India, and it still has its impact in the 21st-century society and even in modern vote bank politics.

Religious orthodoxy and discrimination is another problem that stems from existence of multi religious Indian Society . India has witnessed a progressive nature by embracing other religions yet the multiplicity of religions in India is exploited by many anti-Indian elements to spread communalism.

Inequality has also given birth to many other problems such as Poverty, hunger, corruption and unemployment. There is an existence of social, economic and political inequality. The result of these inequalities is that Dalits and Tribals are still backward. Even after 65 years of Independence, not all of them attained an equal status with the rest of the Indian Society . Gender inequality is also a rampant issue in India. Even after so much years after independence women in general are facing discrimination and lagging behind in many areas. Educational development has made them empowered and independent yet the issues like domestic violence, dowry and rape still prevalent in the Indian Society . Children are also facing problems like malnutrition and hunger. As per a report malnutrition is as high as 40% among the children of India.

Indian Society , in general, can be said to be a peace loving society. We are neither too conservative nor too liberal. As a developing nation, we have our own limitations, but only a rational and scientific thinking Indian Society can bring positive changes. Literacy in India stands at 75% but superstitions and orthodox traditions are still embedded in the Indian Society .

PROBLEMS HIGHLIGHTED BY UPSC:

• Population and associated issues.
• Developmental issues.
• Problems of Urbanization.
• Effects of globalization.
• Social backwardness
• Communalism
• Regionalism

Social Justice:

Social Justice can be seen as panacea to many problems. It is a tool aiming to eradicate inequalities in society, ensuring economic upliftment of vulnerable and backward section of Indian society , establishment of a democratic system, mitigate sufferings and provide legal justice to those who have been oppressed at the hand of influential and powerful section of Indian society . Social justice can be seen as a dynamic tool to improve the conditions of the marginalized sections of the Indian society .

The suggestions and strategy discussed above can be fruitful only if the proper revision and answer writing practice is done without any glitches. Try to integrate current affairs with the static portion so that the contemporary changes can be incorporated effectively. Also try to develop an analytical and critical approach for your answers thus making your answer unique and different from others.

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Social justice without economic prosperity | Essay | UPSC | IAS | K. Siddhartha Sir

Home » Video Gallery » Essay Bank for IAS » Social justice without economic prosperity | Essay | UPSC | IAS | K. Siddhartha Sir

There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless.

Meaning of economic prosperity, components of economic prosperity economic prosperity.

• Distribution
• Sustainability
• Enlargement of Choice

Spiritual Component

Why to keep anyone unhappy

Meaning of Social Justice

“Social justice is the view that everyone deserves equal economic, political and social rights and opportunities. “Social justice encompasses economic justice.

Social justice is the relation of balance between individuals and society measured by comparing distribution of wealth differences, from personal liberties to fair privilege opportunities. It is often referred to as the process of ensuring that individuals fulfill their societal roles and receive what was their due from society.

Social justice is fairness as it manifests in society. That includes fairness in healthcare, employment, housing, and more. Discrimination and social justice are not compatible. While “social justice” as a term sees widespread use these days, it’s not new.

Social justice assigns rights and duties in the institutions of society, which enables people to receive the basic benefits and burdens of cooperation. The relevant institutions often include taxation, social insurance, public health, public school, public services, labor law and regulation of markets, opportunity encashment, undescriminated administration, flexibility of institutions and growth, career transitioning choices and an increasing ability to adjust to newly emerging Gig economy along with a will and an ability to ensure fair distribution of wealth, and equal opportunity.

Social justice also refers to an individual’s ability to reform an existing system, ability to bring the society back from disorder, and being a participant along with other policy makers in shaping the future of the country that he envisions, and that there is no obstructing to it.

Social justice is the ability to carve a niche for one’s identify based on one’s ability, talent and will.

Social justice also doesn’t stipulate giving money to people of the society, and make them cash rich, rather it is to empower them to use this money. And more importantly it is about creating opportunities for all the people of the society so that they can utilize their talent and human resource to build an identity.

Social justice encompasses economic justice. Social justice is the virtue which guides us in creating those organized human interactions we call institutions. In turn, social institutions, when justly organized, provide us with access to what is good for the person, both individually and in our associations with others. Social justice also imposes on each of us a personal responsibility to work with others to design and continually perfect our institutions as tools for personal and social development.”

Social Justice is justice oriented not subject to scrutiny, not open to question/s.

Social justice at the same time is :

• Equality not sameness
• Equality of opportunity, e.g., Not being able to realize potential for want of finance and investment.
• Absence of monopolism, duopolies.

Purpose of Economic Prosperity

Economic prosperity is conceptualized it in very narrow terms. Prosperity is considered synonymous to money. Having money is no doubt a critical aspect of prosperity, but it is just that—one aspect.

if its only oriented towards making more money, if its only for increasing the GDP its worthless as every crime that takes place increases the GDP, all pollutants and its subsequent management increases the GDP, all health problems created increases the GDP but all affect the people and the masses in a very negative manner, and who are all the people who get affected-it’s those who are at the receiving end of economic prosperity. That means if it’s completely capitalistic, it’s no prosperity

Economic Prosperity is essential for serving people, aiding people, improving their lives, by cleansing the systems, reforming situations, finding solutions. Only when such a prosperity exists, social justice is also ensured. Without an ability to serve people, without an ability and willingness to improve the lives and make their thinking progressively better and better, economic prosperity has no meaning at all.

If Economic prosperity gets confined to few hands, If economic prosperity exists only for the sake of some individuals, it’s no prosperity, if economic prosperity gets confined to few houses, few families, few influences, few class or categories of people, it’s no social justice.

The dangers related to economic prosperity is that it is taken advantage of it is made misuse of possibly by some people who are able to wield influence, able to have a policy intervention.

Thus, if economic prosperity exists but exists without social justice then it will be worthless, it will be meaningless

Why economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless

It is not economic prosperity, rather the confinement of wealth in the hands of few people.  A wide disparity will ensue Disparities will mean that prosperity can be sustained.

What is the purpose of prosperity if people are not served, if the prosperity doesn’t permeate to the people, if prosperity doesn’t make the lives better, living conditions better.

There are other aspects of prosperity which without social justice cannot work, and these include

• robust job market where employment is available and opportunities for advancement abound, This can be best provided by building community training and allowing people to work for as social capital if financial capital is not available.
• an employment environment where upward mobility is based on hard work and on the acquisition of formal and informal education and training, This will require a competitive and motivating environment
• a society where invention is encouraged. In a prosperous economy, individuals are able to innovate, creating new and better products, services, and ways of doing things. This requires an aspirational milieu, where identity of the citizens are respected and cared
• Without social justice, we cannot bring the best from the people, as we cannot create motivating environment for them, an aspirational milieu for them.
• Economic prosperity must not forget that people always work for themselves for their identity for their aspirations for getting the best of themselves, prosperity must aim at providing these best to the people.
• A prosperous society also extends far beyond the working world. It includes an aspirational education system where children are taught not only the basics and critical thinking, but given the tools and confidence to aspire and dream.
• Without social justice, we cannot manage talent and aspirations of the people, we cannot manage creative pursuits that cause are instrumental in bringing true prosperity.
• It includes a health care system that responds to the needs of the sick but also acts to prevent illness so as to achieve a healthy and productive society. This will require helping each other in an environment where people treated each other as equal
• It includes a clean and sustainable environment, which can never be an individual effort and will require an equal feeling for the environment, an equal concern
• It includes and encourages empathy by its citizens to care for the less fortunate and those in need using the most effective means available. This will definitely require a caring attitudeand an attitude where everyone considers others as equal and human beings.
• In short, our view of a prosperous society is one that affords opportunities to everyone for personal and professional fulfilment, and this cannot take place without people’s participation, without the feelings of people directed towards their environment, their society their country and this can happen only by taking them all together taking them all in same spirit, Any feeling that some are left out of the scope of economic growth and its opportunity will destroy the notion of social justice.

Without social justice, we cannot ensure all round development

Prosperity is not to be kept in lockers, not to be showcased, not to be flaunted, and even if it is to be flaunted it has to be by making the people prosperous.

Social Justice distributed over people, in their satisfaction, in their contribution in their happiness happens to be the best indicator.

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Social Justice - Laws and Classification

The Protection of Civil Rights (PCR) Act, 1955, and the SC and ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 (POA Act) are two important legislations to address the problems of social discrimination, the prevalence of social evils like untouchability and the increasing cases of exploitation and atrocities against disadvantaged groups. The POA Act provides for special courts/mobile courts for on-the-spot trials and prompt disposal of cases.  For more information on the UPSC Exam, check the given link IAS Exam .

Overview of Social Justice in India

A Centrally sponsored scheme, Implementation of PCR Act and POA Act, was initiated in 1955 to ensure effective implementation of these Acts. Under the scheme, financial assistance is provided for strengthening the administrative, enforcement and judicial machinery related to these legislations, publicity and relief and rehabilitation of the affected persons. As the practice of untouchability still prevails, either directly or indirectly, there is a need for stringent enforcement of the existing legislations along with spreading awareness.

Top priority has been accorded to efforts for achieving the national goal of complete eradication of manual scavenging by the end of the Tenth Plan (2007). The programme has two components – conversion of dry latrines into water-borne latrines and training and rehabilitation of scavengers (whose number is estimated at 6,76,000) and to provide them alternative and dignified occupations.

Find the List of Poverty Alleviation Programmes in India by visiting the linked article

The first component of the scheme is being implemented by the Ministry of Urban Employment and Poverty Alleviation. The National Scheme of Liberation and Rehabilitation of Scavengers and Their Dependents has been transferred to the Ministry of Urban Employment and Poverty Alleviation in 2003-04 to ensure its effective implementation.

Below table gives a broad classification of Social Justice

Human Development Index (HDI)

Human Development Index (HDI) is one of the indicators of social justice prevalent in a nation. The 2 best measurements are the United Nations Human Development Index and the World Bank’s Human Capital Index. As per the United Nations Human Development Index, India is ranked very low at 130 out of 189 countries. These indicators take into account the life expectancy at birth, enrollment in schools etc. There are various reasons that contribute to lower rankings.

Unemployment

• India has a very huge population and the majority of the labour force lack the required skill sets.

Unequal Distribution of Wealth

• Richest 10% of Indians own 4 times more wealth than the remaining 90% of the population which has resulted in a high degree of inequality, non-inclusive growth and low development index.
• India spends just 1.5% of its GDP on the health sector.
• India has a very high percentage of deaths due to air pollution
• India has a very high malnutrition rate, Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR), and Infant Mortality Rate (IMR).
• Government is taking various measures to tackle the above problem.
• The government must increase its public health expenditure to 2.5% of GDP as suggested in the National health policy 2017.
• Ayushman Bharat Yojana was launched in 2018 by the Government to address the primary, secondary and tertiary health care systems in India.
• India spends just 3% of its GDP on the Education Sector.
• As per the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2018, the quality of education in India is highly unsatisfactory.
• High dropouts, low employability of graduates, low productivity, low wages are results of the poor education system.

Water, Sanitation and Hygiene

A huge number of Indians still don’t have access to safe drinking water, and sanitation facilities.

Swachh Bharat Abhiyan

• The objective of this mission is to make India open defecation free through the construction of household-owned toilets and community-owned toilets.
• A UNICEF report shows that this mission has helped in improving sanitation coverage to 90%.

Frequently Asked Questions related to Social Justice

Why is social justice important, how can social justice be achieved, what is the difference between social justice and equity.

Social Justice- UPSC Notes:- Download PDF Here

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Social Justice

Complete Social Justice Notes for UPSC

Social Justice Notes

Issues related to health sector, universal health coverage, privatization of healthcare in india, ayush system of medicine, issues related to education sector, three language formula in india, primary education in india, secondary education in india, higher education in india, right to education (rte) act, 2009, national education policy, 2020 (nep 2020), issues relating to human resource, issues relating to poverty and hunger, issues related to children in india, child labour in india, issues related to women, issues related to minorities, religious conversion and anti-conversion laws, issues related to elderly population, issues related to disabled persons, issues related to third gender & lgbtqia, section 377 of ipc, same sex marriage in india, issues related to scheduled castes, national commission for scheduled castes, issues related to scheduled tribes, particularly vulnerable tribal groups (pvtgs), national commission for scheduled tribes, welfare of scheduled castes and scheduled tribes, welfare of vulnerable sections.

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7. A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity.

  Introduction :

In the realm of justice and societal welfare, the words of philosopher John Rawls resonate with profound significance: “ Justice is the first virtue of social institutions, as truth is of systems of thought. ” Rawls, a prominent figure in political philosophy, underscored the paramount importance of justice as the foundational principle upon which harmonious and equitable societies are built.

Justice, as he contended, stands as the foremost virtue in social institutions—a virtue that, when upheld, can alleviate the need for excessive charity. Charity , though a noble and compassionate endeavour, often addresses the symptoms of societal injustices rather than their root causes. However, Rawls’s insight prompts us to consider that a just society strives not merely to provide for the disadvantaged but also to rectify the systemic issues that breed inequality, poverty, and social disparities.

Essence of the topic :

It underscores the idea that while charity serves as a compassionate response to immediate needs, a just society seeks to address the systemic issues that give rise to those needs. In essence, the more just a society is, the less it relies on charity as a means of mitigating inequality, poverty, and social disparities.

Thesis statement :

In this essay, we delve into the profound correlation between justice and charity, exploring how societies that prioritize justice can significantly reduce their reliance on charitable acts.

Justice in Society:

• Quote : “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
• Defining Justice : Justice, at its core, is the fair and impartial treatment of individuals and groups within a society. It encompasses notions of equality, human rights, and the rule of law.
• Philosophers of Justice : Philosophers like John Rawls, Amartya Sen, and Martha Nussbaum have contributed significantly to our understanding of justice. Rawls’s theory of justice as fairness and Sen’s capability approach offer frameworks for creating just societies.
• Fostering Equality : Justice serves as the cornerstone of an equitable society. It ensures that all individuals have equal access to opportunities, resources, and protections, regardless of their background or circumstances.
• Legal Justice : Legal systems are designed to uphold justice by ensuring that laws are applied consistently and fairly. Examples of legal justice include the right to a fair trial and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty .
• Social Justice : Social justice addresses systemic inequalities and discrimination. It strives to rectify historical injustices and create a society where everyone has a chance to thrive. Initiatives like affirmative action aim to achieve social justice.
• Economic Justice : Economic justice seeks to reduce disparities in wealth and income. Progressive taxation, minimum wage laws, and social welfare programs are mechanisms that promote economic justice.

Relationship between Justice and Charity:

• Quote : “Charity is injurious unless it helps the recipient to become independent of it.” – John D. Rockefeller
• Complementary but distinct concepts : While justice focuses on systemic fairness and equitable treatment, charity addresses immediate needs through voluntary acts of giving.
• Charity as a response to injustice : Often, charity arises from the recognition of injustices within society. It provides temporary relief to those who have been disadvantaged by systemic inequalities.
• Charity’s limitations : Charity, while compassionate, does not address the root causes of inequality and suffering. It can perpetuate dependency and fail to rectify systemic injustices.
• Justice as a preventive measure : A just society seeks to prevent the need for excessive charity by addressing inequalities, poverty, and social disparities through fair laws, policies, and practices.
• Equal access to basic needs : Justice ensures that all individuals have equal access to basic needs like education, healthcare, and employment, reducing the reliance on charity to meet these needs.
• The civil rights movement in the United States sought justice for racial inequalities, eventually leading to policy changes that reduced the need for charity.
• Countries with robust social welfare systems, such as Sweden and Denmark, have lower poverty rates and, consequently, less reliance on charity.

Critical view:

• Quote : “Justice delayed is justice denied. In the meantime, charity can provide solace to those in need.”
• Complementary roles : Charity and justice often operate in tandem, with each playing a distinct yet complementary role in addressing societal issues. While justice seeks systemic change, the charity provides immediate relief.
• Addressing urgent needs : In situations of dire need, such as natural disasters or humanitarian emergencies, the charity provides swift assistance that justice-oriented policies may not be equipped to deliver in the short term.
• Limitations of justice : Achieving justice can be a lengthy and complex process, often entangled in bureaucratic hurdles, legal proceedings, and political challenges. In the interim, charity can alleviate suffering.
• Philanthropy’s role : Charitable organizations and philanthropists often bridge the gap between charity and justice by advocating for systemic changes while addressing immediate needs.
• In cases of mass displacement due to conflict or disaster , charities like the Red Cross provide essential aid.
• NGOs like Akshaya Patra are co-opted even by the government to offer charity to those in immediate need, while long-term solutions like affordable housing policies and social safety nets are being worked upon.

“Charity is no substitute for justice withheld.” – Saint Augustine

In the grand goal of societal betterment, both justice and charity have their rightful places. Justice provides the foundation upon which we build lasting change, while charity extends a compassionate embrace to those in immediate distress. Together, they harmonize to create a world where suffering is alleviated not only through benevolence but through systemic fairness and equal opportunity.

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Social Justice

• Last Updated : 17-Apr-2022
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• Assuring the protection of equal access to liberties, rights, and opportunities.
• Taking care of the least advantaged members of society.
• It seeks to achieve economic justice without any violent conflict.
• It is equated with rule of law.
• Equality: We should shift from equality of outcomes to equality of opportunities.
• Peace and Order : If the majority disregards smaller sections in the community, it drives them to rebellion.
• Dignity: To ensure life to be meaningful and livable with human dignity.
• Mitigate Sufferings: It is a dynamic device to mitigate the sufferings of the poor, weak Dalits, tribals’ and deprived sections of the society.
• Human Resources: It will help in the conservation of human resource by provision of health and education facilities.
• Freedom to form political, economic or religious institutions: It will help to eradicate the challenges of caste system, untouchability and other discrimination in the society.
• Improved status of women: Ill practices of dowry, female foeticide would decline. It can also address the issues declining sex ratio and limited education opportunities for girls.
• Legal Justice: which means that the system of administration of justice must provide a cheap, expeditious and effective instrument for realization of justice by all sections of the people irrespective of their social or economic position or their financial resources Social justice is a dynamic tool to improve the conditions of the marginalised sections of the society. If implemented in letter and spirit can help ensure human dignity and equal opportunities.

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Make Your Note

Social Justice

• 12 Oct 2023

1. The crucial aspect of development process has been the inadequate attention paid to Human Resource Development in India. Suggest measures that can address this inadequacy.

2. Discuss the contribution of civil society groups for women's effective and meaningful participation and representation in state legislatures in India. 

3. “Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory in approach.” Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer.

4. Skill development programmes have succeeded in increasing human resources supply to various sectors. In the context of the statement analyse the linkages between education, skill and employment.

1. Besides the welfare schemes, India needs deft management of inflation and unemployment to serve the poor and the underprivileged sections of the society. Discuss.

2. Do you agree with the view that increasing dependence on donor agencies for development reduces the importance of community participation in the development process? Justify your answer.

3. The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 remains inadequate in promoting incentive-based system for children's education without generating awareness about the importance of schooling. Analyse.

1. “Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyse.

2. “Earn while you learn scheme needs to be strengthened to make vocational education and skill training meaningful.” Comment.

3. Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty and malnutrition be broken through microfinancing of women SHGs? Explain with examples.

4. “Though women in post-Independent India have excelled in various fields, the social attitude towards women and feminist movement has been patriarchal.” Apart from women education and women empowerment schemes, what interventions can help change this milieu?

5. Can Civil Society and Non-Governmental Organisations present an alternative model of public service delivery to benefit the common citizen? Discuss the challenges of this alternative model.

1. In order to enhance the prospects of social development, sound and adequate health care policies are needed particularly in the fields of geriatric and maternal health care. Discuss.

2. “The incidence and intensity of poverty are more important in determining poverty based on income alone”. In this context analyse the latest United Nations Multidimensional Poverty Index Report.

3. “Micro-Finance as an anti-poverty vaccine, is aimed at asset creation and income security of the rural poor in India”. Evaluate the role of the Self Help Groups in achieving the twin objectives along with empowering women in rural India.

4. National Education Policy 2020 is in conformity with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient education system in India. Critically examine the statement.

1.  Appropriate local community-level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain.

2. How far do you agree with the view that the focus on lack of availability of food as the main cause of hunger takes the attention away from ineffective human development policies in India?

1. ‘To ensure effective implementation of policies addressing water, sanitation and hygiene needs, the identification of beneficiary segments is to be synchronized with the anticipated outcomes’. Examine the statement in the context of the WASH scheme.

2. Does the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 ensure effective mechanism for empowerment and inclusion of the intended beneficiaries in the society? Discuss.

3. Hunger and Poverty are the biggest challenges for good governance in India still today. Evaluate how far successive governments have progressed in dealing with these humongous problems. Suggest measures for improvement.

1. Professor Amartya Sen has advocated important reforms in the realms of primary education and primary health care. What are your suggestions to improve their status and performance?

2. Examine the main provisions of the National Child Policy and throw light on the status of its implementation.

1. The quality of higher education in India requires major improvements to make it internationally competitive. Do you think that the entry of foreign educational institutions would help improve the quality of technical and higher education in the country? Discuss.

2. Public health system has limitations in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector could help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives would you suggest?

3. Though there have been several different estimates of poverty in India, all indicate reduction in poverty levels over time. Do you agree? Critically examine with reference to urban and rural poverty indicators.

1. Do government’s schemes for up-lifting vulnerable and backward communities by protecting required social resources for them, lead to their exclusion in establishing businesses in urban economies?

1. Identify the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that are related to health. Discuss the success of the actions taken by the Government for achieving the same.

2. The concept of Mid Day Meal (MDM) scheme is almost a century old in India with early beginnings in Madras Presidency in pre-independent India. The scheme has again been given impetus in most states in the last two decades. Critically examine its twin objectives, latest mandates and success.

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India’s Need New Secular Civil Code – UPSC Daily Editorial Analysis – 17th Aug 2024 – Edukemy

India’s need for a new secular civil code is becoming increasingly important as the country continues to grow and diversify. A secular civil code would provide a unified set of laws governing personal matters like marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption for all citizens, regardless of their religion. Currently, different religious communities follow their own personal laws, which can sometimes lead to inequalities and confusion. By implementing a secular civil code, India could ensure that everyone is treated equally under the law, promoting fairness and national unity while respecting the country’s diverse cultural and religious backgrounds.

Tags: GS – 2, Polity & Governance- Fundamental Rights – Directive Principles of State Policy – Issues Related to Women  

Table of Contents

Context:   

• The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in India aims to unify personal laws for marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption across different religious communities.  
• Advocates believe it will enhance national integration, gender justice, and legal equality, while opponents worry about preserving religious and cultural diversity. 

What is the Uniform Civil Code (UCC)?  

• About: The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) refers to a unified set of laws governing personal matters such as marriage, divorce, adoption, inheritance, and succession applicable to all citizens of India. 
• Constitutional Provision: The UCC is outlined in Article 44 of the Indian Constitution as a Directive Principle of State Policy, directing the state to secure a uniform civil code throughout India. 
• Legally Enforceable Status: It is important to note that while the UCC is a guiding principle, it is not a legally enforceable right. 

What is Constitutional History?  

• Sub-Committee on Fundamental Rights: This committee was responsible for drafting fundamental rights for the Constitution, with figures like Ambedkar, Munshi, and Minoo Masani including UCC in their drafts. 
• Opposition: M.R. Masani, Hansa Mehta, and Amrit Kaur opposed the non-justiciable status, arguing that personal laws based on religion impeded national unity and advocated for UCC as a justiciable right. 
• Draft Article 35: Introduced by Ambedkar and later becoming Article 44, placed UCC within Directive Principles, making it non-mandatory.
• Opposition by Muslim Leaders: Leaders such as Ismail Sahab and Pocker Sahib Bahadur argued that UCC would infringe upon religious freedom and cause disharmony. 
• K.M. Munshi: Supported UCC for promoting national unity and secularism, addressing concerns from Hindu communities as well. 
• Alladi Krishnaswami Aiyyar: Argued that UCC would enhance harmony and questioned the lack of protest against the common criminal code. 
• Ambedkar: Emphasised UCC’s optional nature and its inclusion in Directive Principles as a compromise. 

Key Judicial Pronouncements on UCC:  

• 1985 – Shah Bano Case: Affirmed a Muslim woman’s right to maintenance, linking UCC to national integration. 
• 1985 – Jorden Diengdeh Case: Highlighted inconsistencies in divorce laws, advocating for UCC for legal uniformity. 
• 1995 – Sarla Mudgal Case: Strongly supported UCC, particularly for the Hindu majority, and questioned the delay in its implementation. 
• 1996 – Pannalal Bansilal Pitti Case: Recognized India’s pluralism and suggested gradual implementation of UCC. 
• 2000 – Lily Thomas Case: Emphasised UCC’s significance regarding succession laws. 
• 2003 – John Vallamattom Case: Invalidated discriminatory provisions in Christian personal law, reinforcing the need for UCC. 
• 2014 – Shabnam Hashmi Case: Linked the Juvenile Justice Act to UCC, underscoring the necessity for secular laws. 
• 2017 – Shayara Bano Case: Addressed triple talaq, reigniting UCC debates while separating it from human rights issues. 

What are the Arguments in Favour of Uniform Civil Code?  

• Uniform Treatment: A UCC would ensure equal rights and treatment for all citizens, regardless of religious background, aligning with Article 14 of the Indian Constitution. 
• Model Implementation: The recent UCC implementation in Uttarakhand, which bans polygamy and standardised the marriage age at 21, serves as a model for potential national application. 
• Addressing Discrimination: A UCC could address gender discriminatory practices in personal laws, such as triple talaq, unequal inheritance rights, and child marriage. 
• Statistics: NFHS-5 estimates indicate 23.3% of women aged 20-24 were married before 18, highlighting the need for uniform marriage laws. 
• Legal Complexity: The existing multiple personal laws based on religion create a complex legal landscape. 
• Streamlining: A UCC would simplify the legal system, making judicial administration more straightforward and potentially reducing the backlog of civil cases. 
• Unified Identity: A UCC would foster national integration by emphasising citizenship over religious identity in civil matters, reflecting the concept of “constitutional patriotism.” 
• Precedent: The successful implementation of the Indian Penal Code across diverse communities serves as a precedent for a unified law. 
• Outdated Practices: A UCC could reform outdated practices and align personal laws with contemporary social values. 
• LGBTQ+ Rights: It could address issues like LGBTQ+ rights in marriage, adoption, and inheritance, which are currently not uniformly recognized. 
• Global Examples: Many countries with diverse populations, such as Turkey, have successfully implemented unified civil codes. 
• Human Rights Standards: Adopting a UCC could align India with international human rights standards and potentially improve its standing on global indices, such as the Global Gender Gap index. 

What are the Arguments Against the Uniform Civil Code (UCC)?  

• Diversity at Risk: India’s pluralistic society is marked by diverse cultural and religious practices protected under current personal laws. Critics argue that a UCC could erode this diversity, leading to cultural homogenization. 
• Example: The unique matrilineal inheritance system of the Khasi tribe in Meghalaya may be threatened by a uniform code. 
• Infringement on Rights: Opponents claim that UCC might infringe on the right to religious freedom as guaranteed by Article 25 of the Constitution. Personal laws are integral to the religious practices of many communities. 
• Survey Findings: A 2021 Pew Research Center survey revealed that 84% of Indians consider religion very important, indicating potential resistance to changes in religiously influenced personal laws. 
• Potential Marginalisation: There are concerns that a UCC might disproportionately affect minority communities, leading to marginalisation. 
• Recent Opposition: The implementation of UCC in Uttarakhand faced opposition from minority groups who felt their customs were inadequately considered. 
• Demographic Concern: With minorities comprising about 19.3% of the population (2011 Census), there is a fear that UCC might be biassed towards majority practices, potentially diluting their cultural identity. 
• Logistical Challenges: Creating a UCC that satisfies all communities in a diverse country like India is considered practically challenging. 
• Law Commission Report: The 2018 Law Commission report deemed a UCC “neither necessary nor desirable at this stage,” citing the country’s diversity. 
• Regional Variations: Even within Hindu law, which was codified in the 1950s, there are regional variations, such as the Hindu Succession (Kerala Amendment) Act, 2015. 
• State vs. Centre Authority: Implementing a nationwide UCC might infringe on India’s federal structure, where personal laws fall under the Concurrent List, allowing both state and central governments to legislate. 
• Autonomy Issues: A centrally imposed UCC could undermine state autonomy and conflict with state-specific laws and customs, as seen with Uttarakhand’s state initiative. 
• Implementation Costs: The overhaul required for UCC implementation would involve significant costs, including retraining legal professionals and updating legal databases. 
• Judicial Burden: With over 47 million cases already in backlog, critics argue that resources for UCC could be better utilised in addressing existing judicial inefficiencies. 

What Should be the Way Forward?  

• Stakeholder Consultation: The process for UCC should involve extensive consultations with religious leaders, legal experts, civil society organisations, and community representatives. 
• Transparency: Ensure clear communication of proposed changes and their implications, encouraging public debates and discussions to build broader consensus and address concerns. 
• Gradual Approach: Implementing UCC in phases, starting with less contentious areas like standardising marriage age and inheritance rights, could minimise disruption. 
• Feedback Mechanism: This approach allows for adjustments based on feedback and real-world outcomes, providing time for communities to adapt and for the legal system to prepare. 
• Protection of Minority Rights: Implement robust safeguards to protect minority rights and cultural practices, including a body to oversee implementation and address grievances. 
• Exemption Mechanisms: Establish clear mechanisms for communities to seek exemptions for practices that do not conflict with fundamental rights. 
• Study State-Level Initiatives: Analyse outcomes of existing state-level reforms, such as Goa’s civil code and Uttarakhand’s UCC, to inform the design of a national UCC. 
• Data-Driven Approach: Use evidence to highlight successful strategies and potential pitfalls, providing concrete data to support or modify arguments for and against UCC. 

Conclusion  

The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is a complex issue balancing national integration with cultural and religious diversity. While it promises legal uniformity and gender equality, concerns about cultural erosion, religious freedom, and practical challenges persist. A gradual, inclusive approach with robust safeguards and evidence-based reform is essential for effective implementation. 

UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year’s Question (PYQs)  

Prelims:  .

Q1. Consider the following provisions under the Directive Principles of State Policy as enshrined in the Constitution of India: (2012)   

• Securing for citizens of India a uniform civil code  
• Organising village Panchayats  
• Promoting cottage industries in rural areas  
• Securing for all the workers reasonable leisure and cultural opportunities  

Which of the above are the Gandhian Principles that are reflected in the Directive Principles of State Policy?   

• 1, 2 and 4 only  
• 2 and 3 only  
• 1, 3 and 4 only  
• 1, 2, 3 and 4  

Ans: (b)   

Q2. A legislation that confers on the executive or administrative authority an unguided and uncontrolled discretionary power in the matter of the application of law violates which one of the following Articles of the Constitution of India?   

• Article 14  
• Article 28  
• Article 32  
• Article 44  

Ans: (a)  

Mains   

Q:1 Discuss the possible factors that inhibit India from enacting for its citizens a uniform civil code as provided for in the Directive Principles of State Policy. (2015)  

Source: HT  

Q: What is a secular civil code?

• Answer : A secular civil code is a set of laws that apply equally to all citizens, regardless of their religion. It covers personal matters like marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption, ensuring that everyone is treated the same under the law.

Q: Why does India need a new secular civil code?

• Answer : India needs a new secular civil code to promote equality and unity among its diverse population. Currently, different religious communities follow their own personal laws, which can lead to inequality and discrimination. A common code would ensure that everyone has the same rights and protections.

Q: How would a secular civil code impact people’s lives?

• Answer : A secular civil code would create a uniform set of rules for personal matters, simplifying legal processes and reducing confusion. It would help protect the rights of women and marginalized groups, who sometimes face unfair treatment under existing personal laws.

Q: What are the challenges in implementing a secular civil code in India?

• Answer : The challenges include resistance from religious communities that may want to keep their own personal laws, as well as the difficulty of balancing the diverse cultural and religious practices in India. Implementing a new code would require careful consideration and widespread dialogue.

Q: Has India taken any steps towards a secular civil code?

• Answer : There have been discussions and proposals for a secular civil code for many years, but no comprehensive code has been implemented yet. Some states have made progress in reforming specific aspects of personal law, but a nationwide secular civil code remains a topic of ongoing debate.

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What to Read from the Hindu Newspaper- 17th August 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Page Number 1

1. UPSC Syllabus Heading:  GS 2

News:  J&K election to be held in three phases from Sept. 18 

2. UPSC Syllabus Heading:  GS 3

News:  National Film Awards: Aattam bags best film honour, Rishab Shetty adjudged best actor 

3. UPSC Syllabus Heading:  GS 1

News:  IMA announces 24-hour withdrawal of services 

Page Number 8

1. UPSC Syllabus Heading:  GS 3

News:  The essence of India’s inflation problem 

2. UPSC Syllabus Heading:  GS 2

News:  Ensuring social justice in the bureaucracy 

Page Number 9

UPSC Syllabus Heading:  GS 2

News:  Violence and vigil in Kolkata

Page Number 11

News:  Jurisdiction of courts defined by Constitution: Dhankhar 

Page Number 12

1. UPSC Syllabus Heading: GS 2

News:  i) Modi speaks to Yunus, calls for safety of Hindus in Bangladesh ii) Centre approves reshuffle in senior bureaucratic posts 

2. UPSC Syllabus Heading: GS 3

News:   i) Centre unveils new system to study weather, crop patterns ii) NWMI issues guidelines to boost equity in newsrooms 

Page Number 13

UPSC Syllabus Heading: GS 3

News: ‘SEBI’s Buch earned revenue in potential violation of policy'

Page Number 14

News: Thai lawmakers elect Shinawatra heiress Paetongtarn as PM

News: With 3 patients, Pakistan records Asia’s first mpox cases 

Note: The above document has been prepared from The Hindu: Delhi Edition

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After Iowa abortion ruling, should voters boot Justice David May? Rekha Basu weighs in.

Opponents of same-sex marriage waged ideological warfare against the courts in 2010. this time, kim reynolds, lawmakers and justices are responsible for the ideological warfare..

• Rekha Basu is a longtime syndicated columnist, editorial writer, reporter and author of the book, “Finding Your Voice.”
• She retired in 2022 as a Des Moines Register columnist.

In 2010, a group of evangelical political activists, furious over the Iowa Supreme Court’s unanimous ruling for same-sex marriage, plotted revenge. Led by Bob Vander Plaats of the The Family Leader, they formed the ironically named “Iowans for Freedom.”

Funded partly by out-of-state money, it campaigned against three of the Supreme Court justices who happened to be up for retention elections. And it succeeded in unseating three fine ones:  Chief Justice Marsha Ternus and Justices Michael Streit and David Baker .

Fast forward to this year, when a reconstituted Iowa Supreme Court, a majority hand-picked by Iowa’s anti-abortion Gov. Kim Reynolds, turns back the clock 50 years with a 4-3 ruling effectively outlawing abortions after six weeks into a pregnancy. In doing so, the justices overturned their own court's precedent, deciding that abortion laws should not be assessed under the strict-scrutiny standard previously invoked .

And now, in response, some women are taking a cue from what Iowans for Freedom accomplished in 2010. They’re encouraging others to turn the page on the November ballot — literally — to the side where judicial retention votes are, and vote against Justice David May . He’s the only one who voted for the six-week ban who’s up this year.

So, how could anyone who opposed the 2010 campaign support the same tactic? Comparisons between the two efforts get complicated. Retention elections used to be mostly pro forma shows of support for sitting judges appointed on a nonpartisan basis, who were doing their jobs properly. In 2010, same-sex marriage opponents couldn’t accept that their religious-based agenda had lost in a court of law bound by the Iowa Constitution. So it used the elections to wage ideological warfare. 

This time the ideological warfare has been waged by the governor, state lawmakers and the court’s new majority, by tampering with the once nonpartisan, constitutionally based process. Reynolds, an outspoken abortion opponent, called a special one-day session of the Legislature last summer to vote on the ban. Six weeks is before most women even know if they’re pregnant. Iowa’s Republican-led Legislature complied by passing it, though a nearly identical 2018 law had been permanently blocked . Reynolds had over the years appointed four new justices, including May, who could reliably be predicted to vote as they did.

More: Kim Reynolds picked this Legislature, and it steamrolled an extreme path for Iowa

The victims now will be untold numbers of pregnant women and girls, and children born to people ill-equipped to care for them.

“The ideological bias of this court does not reflect the will of most Iowans, and I’m not sure how far it follows the constitution,” said Des Moines’ Lea DeLong, the reproductive rights advocate who penned a letter making the case for opposing May’s retention. “My reading of the constitution is that it is intended to expand the rights and liberties of people.”

Her letter is being widely circulated by email. It points out that, as Reynolds’ appointee, May helped give Iowa “one of the most restrictive rulings in the nation against the rights of women.” It goes on to say, “It is an unfortunate development in our society that these kinds of actions against judges must happen, but I'm afraid we have had to learn some sad lessons from those who deny the rights of women. It is well known that most Iowans do not support these draconian restrictions on women's lives and decisions.”

That’s true: 61% of Iowans polled support abortion rights in all or most cases . Still, the governor saw fit to impose her personal beliefs over the will of the majority.

DeLong is co-founder with Charlotte Hubbell of a group of some 15 women known as Iowans for Reproductive Freedom (one word but light years away from the group that waged the 2010 ballot battle). Formed in November, 2022, it has placed billboards defending reproductive rights on display around Des Moines.

They carry such captions as:

•   Reproductive Freedom Is KEY to a Strong Family .
•  Keep Government OUT of Women's Health Care .
• If Men Got Pregnant, We Wouldn't Be Discussing This .

Though individual members support the ballot idea and are circulating DeLong’s letter, the organization isn’t officially involved in the effort. DeLong herself doesn’t doubt May is a good person. And she’s mindful that Reynolds would likely replace him with another justice of the same ideological bent. But she wants this to be a wake-up call. “It sends a message,” she said. “Maybe it will encourage people to think very seriously about what this court is doing to women.”

Unlike Vander Plaats’ well financed and heavily publicized initiative, she says, “We’re not trying to organize a campaign. We will do what women have always done before: Spread information to our friends.”  

More importantly, the goal this time is protecting rights, not undermining them.

“Much as I don’t like the fundamental concept of doing this,” DeLong said, “I think so many destructive lines have been crossed.”

And she’s right. They have been.

Rekha Basu is a longtime syndicated columnist, editorial writer, reporter and author of the book, “Finding Your Voice.” She retired in 2022 as a Des Moines Register columnist. Her column, “Rekha Shouts and Whispers,” is available at basurekha.substack.com .