CBSE Class 7 Social Science Chapter 1 – On Equality NCERT Solutions

Reviewed by NCERT Help Editorial Team · Updated on 29 Jul 2026

NCERT Solutions PDF Class 7 PDF

This chapter, "On Equality," for CBSE Class 7 Social Science delves into the fundamental concept of equality in a democracy. It explains why Universal Adult Franchise is crucial, highlighting how it ensures every citizen's voice is heard regardless of their background. The solutions explore the meaning of "all persons are equal before the law," emphasizing that laws apply equally to everyone, from the highest official to the common citizen. It also discusses how Article 15 of the Indian Constitution prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth, ensuring equal access to public spaces and facilities. The chapter examines real-life instances of discrimination faced by individuals like Omprakash Valmiki and the Ansaris, contrasting them with the legal provisions aimed at upholding equality, such as the Disabilities Act and the Midday Meal Scheme. These solutions are designed to help students grasp the importance of equality and the measures taken to combat discrimination, aiding in their exam preparation.

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Board	CBSE
Class	Class 7
Subject	Social Science
Session	2026
Language	English
Type	NCERT Solutions
Chapter	Chapter 1 – On Equality

Chapter summary

Chapter 1, "On Equality," for Class 7 Social Science focuses on the core principles of equality and non-discrimination in India. The NCERT Solutions explain the significance of Universal Adult Franchise in a democracy and the constitutional guarantee of equality before the law. It analyzes how laws and government programs aim to address historical inequalities and ensure equal opportunities for all citizens, including marginalized groups and persons with disabilities. The solutions also highlight the violation of dignity through discriminatory practices, reinforcing the idea that equality is essential for a functioning democracy.

Learning outcomes

Understand the importance of Universal Adult Franchise in a democracy.
Explain the concept of 'all persons are equal before the law'.
Identify ways in which Article 15 of the Constitution prohibits discrimination.
Analyze real-life examples of discrimination and inequality.
Recognize the significance of the Disabilities Act and government programs in promoting equality.
Define the term 'dignity' and its relation to self-respect.

Topics covered

Paper topics

Equality
Democracy
Universal Adult Franchise
Article 15
Discrimination
Inequality
Dignity
Disabilities Act
Government Programs
Public Facilities
Social Justice
Constitutional Rights

Important topics

Concept of Equality
Universal Adult Franchise
Equality Before Law
Discrimination and Dignity
Role of Government in Ensuring Equality

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Questions and Solutions

1. In a democracy why is Universal Adult Franchise important?

In a democracy, why is Universal Adult Franchise considered important?

Solution: Universal Adult Franchise is a cornerstone of democracy because it embodies the principle of political equality. It ensures that every adult citizen, regardless of their caste, creed, religion, sex, or economic status, has the right to vote. This universal right allows citizens to participate in the governance of their country and hold their elected representatives accountable, making the government truly representative of the people's will.

2. Re-read the box on Article 15 and state two ways in which this Article addresses inequality?

Re-reading the information on Article 15, state two specific ways in which this Article addresses inequality.

Solution: Article 15 of the Indian Constitution prohibits discrimination by the state on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. Two ways this article addresses inequality are:

It ensures equal access to shops, public restaurants, hotels, and places of public entertainment for all citizens.
It guarantees the use of wells, tanks, bathing ghats, roads, and places of public resort that are maintained wholly or partly out of state funds or are dedicated to the use of the general public, without any discrimination.

3. In what ways was Omprakash ValmikCs experience similar to that of the Ansaris?

In what ways was Omprakash Valmiki's experience of discrimination similar to the experience of the Ansaris?

Solution: Both Omprakash Valmiki and the Ansaris faced discrimination that deeply affected their dignity. Omprakash, a Dalit boy, was not allowed to sit with other students and was made to sweep the school and playground simply because of his caste. Similarly, the Ansaris, a Muslim couple, were denied a rental flat in a locality because of their religion; the property dealer refused them when she learned their names. In both instances, individuals were treated unequally and their self-respect was undermined due to prejudice.

4. What do you understand by the term "all persons are equal before the law"? Why do you think it is important in a democracy?

What is your understanding of the phrase "all persons are equal before the law"? Explain why this principle is important in a democracy.

Solution: The phrase "all persons are equal before the law" means that every individual in the country, irrespective of their social status, wealth, or position (from the President to a domestic worker), is subject to the same laws and legal processes. No one is above the law, and everyone has equal access to public places like playgrounds, hotels, markets, and can use public facilities such as wells and roads.

This principle is critically important in a democracy because democracy is founded on the idea of equality and equal recognition for all citizens. If inequalities based on race, religion, or caste persist and are not checked by the law, democracy cannot flourish. The rule of law ensures fairness and prevents arbitrary discrimination, which is essential for the stability and success of a democratic government.

5. The Government of India passed the Disabilities Act in 1995. This law states that persons with disabilities have equal rights, and that the government should make possible their full participation in society. The government has to provide free education and integrate children with disabilities into mainstream schools. This law also states that all public places including buildings, school etc., should be accessible and provided with ramps. Look at the photograph and think about the boy who is being carried down the stairs. Do you think the above law is being implemented in his case? What needs to be done to make the building and accessible for him? How would his being carried down the stairs affect his dignity as well as his safety?

The Government of India passed the Disabilities Act in 1995. This law states that persons with disabilities have equal rights, and that the government should make possible their full participation in society. The government has to provide free education and integrate children with disabilities into mainstream schools. This law also states that all public places including buildings, school etc., should be accessible and provided with ramps. Consider the situation depicted in the photograph showing a boy being carried down the stairs. Do you believe the aforementioned law is being implemented in his situation? What modifications are necessary to make the building accessible for him? How might the act of being carried down the stairs impact his dignity and safety?

Solution: Based on the photograph, it appears the Disabilities Act of 1995 is not being fully implemented in this case. The building lacks accessibility features like ramps, forcing the boy to be carried down the stairs by security personnel.

To make the building accessible for him, ramps should be constructed alongside the stairs. Elevators or accessible lifts could also be installed. The building's entrances and internal pathways should be wide enough for wheelchair access.

Being carried down the stairs can significantly affect the boy's dignity by making him feel dependent and potentially embarrassed, as his physical condition is highlighted in a way that might be perceived as undignified. It also poses a serious safety risk, as there is a chance of him falling, which could lead to injury. The law is intended to prevent such situations by ensuring accessibility, thereby protecting both the safety and dignity of persons with disabilities. This situation warrants attention, possibly even legal recourse, to ensure compliance with the law.

6. What is Joothan about?

What is the book 'Joothan' about?

Solution: 'Joothan' is an autobiographical work that describes the bitter experiences of growing up as a Dalit boy in India. It details the discrimination, humiliation, and hardships faced by individuals from the Dalit community.

7. What suggestion was given to Ansaris by the property dealer?

What suggestion did the property dealer offer to the Ansaris?

Solution: The property dealer suggested that the Ansaris change their names to something that sounded non-Muslim, such as Mr and Mrs Kumar, to avoid discrimination and secure the rental flat.

8. On what basis were the Ansaris treated unequally?

On what basis were the Ansaris subjected to unequal treatment?

Solution: The Ansaris were treated unequally on the basis of their religion. The property dealer denied them the rental flat upon learning they were Muslim.

9. What do you mean by 'dignity'?

What is the meaning of the term 'dignity'?

Solution: 'Dignity' refers to the quality of being worthy of honor and respect. It means that every person should be treated with self-respect and consideration, recognizing their inherent worth as human beings. It implies that no one should be subjected to treatment that undermines their sense of self-worth or makes them feel inferior.

10. What are the two ways in which the government has tried to implement the equality that guaranteed in the constitution?

What are the two primary methods the government employs to implement the equality guaranteed by the Constitution?

Solution: The government has tried to implement the equality guaranteed in the Constitution in two main ways:

Through Laws: By enacting specific laws that prohibit discrimination and ensure equal rights for all citizens, such as the Disabilities Act or laws against caste-based discrimination.
Through Government Programmes or Schemes: By introducing programs and schemes designed to support and uplift underprivileged or marginalized groups, thereby helping them achieve a more equal status in society. An example is the Midday Meal Scheme.

11. Who have been employed to cook the meal under midday meal scheme?

Who is typically employed to cook the meals under the Midday Meal Scheme?

Solution: While the source text does not explicitly state who cooks the meals under the Midday Meal Scheme, these schemes often involve the employment of local women, self-help groups, or community members to prepare and serve the food, thereby providing employment opportunities and ensuring the meals are prepared locally.

Common mistakes

Confusing legal equality with social and economic equality.
Underestimating the impact of discrimination on an individual's dignity.
Not understanding the practical implementation of laws like the Disabilities Act.
Overlooking the role of government schemes in addressing inequality.

Revision tips

Focus on understanding the core principles of equality and non-discrimination.
Relate the constitutional articles and laws discussed to real-life examples.
Pay attention to the definition of 'dignity' and its importance.
Review the specific ways the government implements equality through laws and programs.

Practice MCQs

Q1. Why is Universal Adult Franchise considered important in a democracy?

Q2. Which article of the Indian Constitution prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth?

Q3. What does the phrase 'all persons are equal before the law' imply?

Q4. The Disabilities Act of 1995 aims to ensure:

Q5. How was the dignity of Omprakash Valmiki affected?

Frequently asked questions

What is the main theme of the Class 7 Social Science Chapter 1?

The main theme of Chapter 1, 'On Equality,' is to understand the concept of equality in a democracy, how it is guaranteed by the Constitution, and the various forms of discrimination that exist and how they are addressed.

Why is Universal Adult Franchise important for democracy?

Universal Adult Franchise is important because it ensures that all adult citizens have the right to vote, making the government truly representative and upholding the principle of political equality.

How does the Indian Constitution ensure equality?

The Indian Constitution ensures equality through various provisions, including the principle of 'all persons are equal before the law' and prohibiting discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth, as stated in Article 15.

What does 'dignity' mean in the context of this chapter?

Dignity refers to the self-respect and worthiness of an individual. Discrimination violates a person's dignity by treating them as less than equal.

What are some examples of government efforts to promote equality?

The government promotes equality through laws like the Disabilities Act and programs such as the Midday Meal Scheme, which aim to help underprivileged groups and ensure equal opportunities.

How can these NCERT Solutions help students?

These solutions provide clear, step-by-step explanations for each question, helping students understand complex concepts like equality and discrimination, and prepare effectively for their exams.

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