CBSE Class 7 Social & Political Life – II: Chapter 1 - On Equality NCERT Solutions

In a democracy, the government is elected by the people. Universal adult franchise is crucial because it upholds the principle of political equality. It means that every adult citizen, regardless of their caste, colour, religion, gender, or economic status, has the right to vote. This ensures that the government is representative of the entire population. Furthermore, the principle of "one person, one vote, one value" signifies that each vote carries equal weight, preventing discrimination and ensuring that all voices have an equal say in electing their representatives.

Article 15 of the Indian Constitution is a fundamental right that addresses inequality by prohibiting discrimination. Two key ways it does this are:

1. Prohibition of Discrimination: It explicitly states that the state cannot discriminate against any citizen on the grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. This ensures that all individuals are treated equally in the eyes of the law and the government.
2. Access to Public Places: It guarantees that all persons have access to public places, including playgrounds, hotels, shops, markets, and publicly available wells, roads, and bathing ghats. This provision aims to dismantle social barriers and ensure that everyone can use these facilities without facing exclusion or discrimination. It also leads to the abolition of practices like untouchability.

The experiences of Omprakash Valmiki and the Ansaris were similar in that both faced discrimination and violation of their dignity due to societal prejudices. Omprakash Valmiki, a Dalit child, was discriminated against on the basis of his caste. He was forced to sweep the school grounds and was looked down upon by his principal and teachers, which deeply hurt his dignity. Similarly, the Ansaris, a Muslim couple, faced discrimination when people were unwilling to rent them an apartment solely because of their religion. In both cases, individuals were treated unequally and denied basic respect and rights, highlighting how social biases can lead to unjust treatment even when constitutional equality is guaranteed.

The phrase "all persons are equal before the law" means that every individual in the country is subject to the same laws and is entitled to the same legal protection. It signifies that no person is above the law, and the law is applied impartially, without any discrimination based on their social status, economic background, religion, caste, or gender. Everyone is treated equally in the eyes of the legal system.

This principle is extremely important in a democracy because:

• Promotes Fairness and Justice: It ensures that justice is administered fairly to all citizens, preventing the powerful or privileged from escaping legal consequences while the less fortunate are punished.
• Upholds Dignity: It reinforces the dignity of every individual by ensuring they are treated with respect and not subjected to arbitrary treatment under the law.
• Ensures Equal Opportunity: It lays the foundation for equal opportunities for all citizens, as legal equality is a prerequisite for social and economic equality.
• Strengthens Democracy: By guaranteeing equal treatment under the law, it builds trust between citizens and the government, strengthening the democratic fabric of the nation.

The photograph of the boy being carried down the stairs suggests that the Disabilities Act of 1995 is likely not being fully implemented in this specific situation. The law mandates that public buildings, including schools, should be accessible and equipped with facilities like ramps to ensure the easy movement of persons with disabilities.

What needs to be done:

• The building should be retrofitted with ramps alongside the stairs, or an elevator/lift should be installed to provide accessible entry and exit.
• Clear signage indicating accessible routes should be provided.
• Staff should be trained to assist persons with disabilities appropriately and respectfully.

Impact on dignity and safety:

• Dignity: Being carried down the stairs can be a humiliating experience for the boy. It highlights his dependence and can make him feel singled out or less capable, thereby affecting his self-esteem and dignity. Ideally, he should be able to navigate the building independently.
• Safety: The act of being carried down stairs poses significant safety risks. There is a danger of falling, which could lead to serious injury. This method of movement is inherently less secure than using accessible infrastructure designed for safety and independence.