Grade-8 SST, Social Justice and the Marginalized

 

EXERCISES

 

1. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.

(a) Marginalized groups suffer from isolation and social discrimination.

(b) The untouchables were the outcastes who did not fit in the caste hierarchy.

(c) The SCs call themselves Dalits.

(d) Tribal societies have developed very unique cultures.

(e) Reservations are an attempt to realize the true spirit of the right to equality.

 

2. Choose the correct answer.

(a) The untouchables were forced to take up 'unclean' occupations like

(i) teaching.

(ii) farming.

(iii) trading.

(iv) carrying night soil.

Answer- (iv) carrying night soil.

 

(b) Mahatma Gandhi tried to improve the lot of the

(i) lower castes

(ii) industrialists.

(iii) freedom fighters.

(iv) none of these

Answer- (i) lower castes

 

(c) OBC stands for

(i) Other Backward Classes.

(ii) Other Backward Caste.

(iii) Other Behind Caste.

(iv) Other Backward Categories.

Answer- (i) Other Backward Classes.

 

(d) Economic assets were concentrated in the hands of the

(i) merchants.

(ii) shopkeepers.

(iii) higher castes.

(iv) kings.

Answer- (iii) higher castes.

 

(e) Which of these comes under affirmative action?

(i) allowing manual scavenging

(ii) reservation for SCs, STs and OBCs

(iii) discriminating on the basis of caste

(iv) practising untouchability

Answer- (ii) reservation for SCs, STs and OBCs

 

3. Match the rows.

(a) untouchables (b) Scheduled Tribes (c) Other Backward Classes (d) The National Commission for SCs and STs (e) social inequality

(i) linked to economic inequality (ii) protects the interests of marginalized groups (iii) marginalized groups (iv) 3,743 backward castes (v) lived outside villages and towns

Answer-

(a) untouchables - (v) lived outside villages and towns

(b) Scheduled Tribes - (iii) marginalized groups

(c) Other Backward Classes - (iv) 3,743 backward castes

(d) The National Commission for SCs and STs - (ii) protects the interests of marginalized groups

(e) social inequality - (i) linked to economic inequality

 

4. Write true or false. Correct the false sentences in your notebook.

(a) The caste system in India is a root cause of social inequality.

True

(b) The backward classes have faced disadvantages on account of their birth.

True

(c) The Constitution of India bans the practice of untouchability.

True

(d) There is no link between marginalization and economic inequality.

False. There is a strong link between marginalization and economic inequality. Marginalized groups often face economic disadvantages due to social discrimination and lack of opportunities.

(e) Reservations in government jobs are intended to harm the upper castes.

False. Reservations in government jobs are intended to provide opportunities to marginalized groups who have historically been disadvantaged due to social discrimination.

 

5. Answer the following questions in one or two sentences.

 

(a) Who was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee? What did he ensure?

Answer-Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee. He ensured that the Constitution made special provisions for marginalized groups.

(b) What terms have been used in the Constitution for the socially and economically backward groups?

Answer-The Constitution uses the terms Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) for socially and economically backward groups.

(c) What function does the National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes perform?

Answer-The National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes monitors the implementation of constitutional safeguards and protects the rights of these groups.

(d) What do you understand by the term 'affirmative action'?

Answer-Affirmative action refers to policies and practices designed to address historical discrimination and promote equality of opportunity for marginalized groups.

(e) Why do reservations face opposition?

Answer- Reservations face opposition from some who argue that they may compromise merit and create resentment among other groups.

 

Answer the following questions in four or five sentences.

 

(a) Discuss the plight of marginalized groups in society.

Answer- Plight of Marginalized Groups

Social Exclusion: Marginalized groups often face social discrimination and ostracism, leading to isolation and limited social opportunities.

Economic Disadvantage: They are often confined to low-paying jobs, have limited access to education and resources, and face economic inequality.

Political Underrepresentation: Marginalized groups may have limited political representation and voice in decision-making processes.

Cultural Marginalization: Their cultural practices and identities may be undervalued or suppressed by the dominant culture.

 

(b) How did the caste system in India lead to marginalization of communities?

Answer- Caste System and Marginalization

Rigid Hierarchy: The caste system divided society into rigid hierarchical groups, with the lower castes facing discrimination and social exclusion.

Occupational Restrictions: Lower castes were confined to specific occupations, often considered "unclean" or low-status, limiting their economic opportunities.

Social Ostracism: They were denied access to public spaces, temples, and social gatherings, further isolating them from mainstream society.

Educational Disadvantage: Lower castes were often denied access to education, limiting their social and economic mobility.

 

(c) Mention the provisions in the Constitution that deal with social injustice.

Answer- Constitutional Provisions for Social Justice

Abolition of Untouchability: Article 17 explicitly prohibits the practice of untouchability.

Right to Equality: Article 14 guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws.

Reservation in Education and Employment: Articles 15(4) and 16(4) provide for affirmative action to ensure representation of marginalized groups.

Protection of Tribal Rights: The Constitution provides for the protection of tribal rights and cultural heritage.

 

(d) How are social injustice and economic inequality related?

Answer- Social Injustice and Economic Inequality

Limited Opportunities: Social discrimination and exclusion often lead to limited access to education, employment, and other resources.

Poverty and Deprivation: Marginalized groups are more likely to live in poverty and face economic hardship.

Intergenerational Poverty: Economic inequality can be perpetuated across generations, further exacerbating social injustice.

Social Mobility Barriers: Social discrimination and prejudice can hinder social mobility and limit upward economic movement.

 

(e) Write a short note on affirmative action in India.

Answer- Affirmative Action in India

Purpose: Affirmative action policies are designed to address historical discrimination and provide opportunities to marginalized groups.

Mechanisms: Reservation in education and government jobs is a key mechanism of affirmative action in India.

Controversy: Affirmative action policies have been subject to debate and controversy, with some arguing that they may compromise merit.

Effectiveness: The effectiveness of affirmative action in achieving social and economic equality is a complex issue with ongoing discussions and evaluations.

 

Analytical Skills

 

Read the following verses from a poem written by a Dalit poet and answer the questions that follow.

INDEPENDENCE

This is our Land, and our Country! This is our Nation, and our India! We celebrate here Independence! And also Freedom, for the People! Which People I just still know not! Which Nation I am not yet aware! May be these for the rich and ruling! Their all good friends and agents!

 

(i) Why does the poet say that he is not aware of which people are being referred to in 'our Land'?

Answer- The poet says he is not aware of which people are being referred to in 'our Land' because the independence and freedom that is being celebrated seems to be exclusive to the rich and powerful. The marginalized groups, like Dalits, continue to face discrimination and oppression.

 

(ii) Who are the good friends and agents?

Answer- The good friends and agents are the privileged classes and the ruling elite who benefit from the system of inequality and injustice.

 

(iii) What is the tone of the poem?

Answer- The tone of the poem is bitter, sarcastic, and disillusioned. The poet expresses frustration and anger at the hypocrisy of celebrating independence and freedom while many people, especially Dalits, remain marginalized and oppressed.

 

Analytical Skills

 

What do you think is the connection between social inequality and poverty? Can improved economic conditions lead to greater equality? Give reasons.

Answer- Connection Between Social Inequality and Poverty

(a) Social inequality and poverty are closely interrelated:

Limited access to facilities: Social inequality can limit access to education, healthcare, and quality jobs, trapping individuals and communities in poverty.

Discrimination and Poverty: Discriminatory practices based on factors like caste, race, or gender can hinder economic advancement and continue poverty.

Difficulty in Social Mobility: Social inequality can create barriers to upward social and economic mobility, making it difficult for individuals to escape poverty.

Cycle of Poverty: Poverty can lead to poor health, malnutrition, and lack of education, which in turn can perpetuate poverty across generations.

 

(b) Can Improved Economic Conditions Lead to Greater Equality?

Improved economic conditions can definitely contribute to reducing poverty and inequality but it is important to consider the following:

Inclusive Growth: Economic growth must be inclusive and benefit all segments of society, not just the wealthy.

Govt. Policies: Government policies can play a crucial role in redistributing wealth and resources to reduce inequality, such as progressive taxation, social welfare programs, and affirmative action.

Addressing Social Barriers: Addressing social and cultural barriers, such as caste discrimination and gender inequality, is essential for achieving true equality.

Education and Skill Development: Investing in education and skill development can empower individuals and create opportunities for social and economic advancement.

Access to Resources: It should be ensured that equal access to resources like healthcare, housing, and clean water is provided in order to help reduce poverty and inequality.

In conclusion, both economic and social factors is necessary to achieve lasting social justice.

 

Values and Life Skills

 

You have read about marginalization of various groups in our country.

Answer- Understanding Marginalization and Its Impact

Marginalization is a complex phenomenon that affects various groups in our society. It involves the exclusion of individuals or groups from full participation in social, economic, and political life.

 

Various Aspects of marginalization:

Social Exclusion: Marginalized groups often face social discrimination, prejudice, and stigma, leading to isolation and limited social opportunities.

Economic Disadvantage: They may have limited access to education, employment, and resources, resulting in poverty and economic inequality.

Political Underrepresentation: Marginalized groups may have limited political voice and influence in decision-making processes.

Cultural Marginalization: Their cultural practices, beliefs, and identities may be undervalued or suppressed by the dominant culture.

 

The Impact of Marginalization:

Marginalization can have severe consequences for individuals and communities, including:

Poor health outcomes: Limited access to healthcare and nutritious food can lead to poor health and increased vulnerability to diseases.

Reduced educational opportunities: Lack of access to quality education can limit future opportunities and perpetuate poverty.

Social and psychological distress: Discrimination and exclusion can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression.

Trapping into the Cycle of poverty: Marginalization can trap individuals and communities in a cycle of poverty, making it difficult to break free.

 

Addressing Marginalization:

To address marginalization, it is crucial to:

Promote equality and social justice: Policies and practices that promote equality and fairness for all should be promoted.

Challenge stereotypes and prejudices: Work should be done to dismiss negative stereotypes and promote understanding and empathy towards marginalized.

Empower marginalized groups: Provide opportunities for education, skill development, and economic empowerment.

Create inclusive communities: Foster inclusive communities where everyone feels valued and respected.

Advocate for government policies: Support policies that address the root causes of marginalization, such as poverty, discrimination, and lack of access to resources.

 

By understanding the causes and consequences of marginalization, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable society for all.

 

Thinking Hat

HOTS-Analytical Skills

 

The word 'dalit' means crushed or broken to pieces. Why do you think they are known as 'Dalits’

Answer- The term "Dalit" is a self-designation adopted by many members of the formerly oppressed castes in India. It signifies their historical oppression and suppression under the caste system. The word "Dalit" literally means "broken" or "crushed," reflecting the centuries-old experience of social, economic, and political marginalization faced by these communities.

The term "Dalit" encapsulates the following:

Social Exclusion: Dalits were subjected to severe social discrimination and exclusion, often forced to live outside of villages and denied access to public spaces and resources.

Economic Exploitation: They were forced into low-paying and often degrading occupations, extending their poverty and economic vulnerability.

Cultural Oppression: Their cultural practices and traditions were often ridiculed and suppressed.

Political Marginalization: Dalits were historically denied political representation and participation in decision-making processes.

The term "Dalit" thus serves as a powerful symbol of their struggle for dignity, equality, and social justice. It highlights their historical oppression and their ongoing fight for recognition and empowerment.