Introduction

• Democracy is based on the principle of equality, but in reality, societies have deep-rooted inequalities based on gender, religion, and caste.
• These inequalities sometimes influence politics in both positive and negative ways.
• The chapter discusses how democracy accommodates and addresses these inequalities.

Gender and Politics

Gender Division

• Gender division is a form of social division based on biological differences between men and women.
• It is not just about physical differences but also social expectations and inequalities.

Women’s Political and Social Struggles

• Women have been historically disadvantaged in terms of education, employment, and decision-making.
• Over time, women’s movements have fought for equal rights in various countries.

Women’s Movements and Feminism

• Feminist movements demand equal rights for women in all spheres.
• Achievements of Women’s Movements:
  • Right to vote (early 20th century).
  • Equal wages and work opportunities.
  • Protection against domestic violence and harassment.

Gender and Discrimination in India

Women face discrimination in various areas, including:

• Low literacy rates (female literacy is lower than male literacy).
• Unequal pay for equal work.
• Unequal representation in politics.
• Domestic violence and dowry system.

Women in Politics

• Women’s participation in politics remains low in India.
• Only 14% of MPs in Lok Sabha (2021) were women.
• The Panchayati Raj system (1992) reserved 33% of seats for women, increasing their participation in local governance.
• The Women’s Reservation Bill (proposed for 33% reservation in Parliament) is yet to be passed.
• Political empowerment is essential for gender equality in democracy.

Religion and Politics

Religious Diversity in India

• India is a multi-religious country, with major religions including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
• Religious diversity should not lead to discrimination, but sometimes it influences politics negatively.

Relationship Between Religion and Politics

• Secularism: The Indian Constitution ensures that the state does not favor any religion.
• Positive role of religion in politics:
  • Encouraging moral values and ethics in governance.
  • Ensuring religious harmony and protection of minority rights.
• Negative role of religion in politics:
  • Communalism – Using religion for political gains.
  • Discrimination and violence based on religion.

Communalism: A Threat to Democracy

• Communalism occurs when religion is used for political purposes.
• Forms of communalism in politics:
  • Religious prejudices and stereotypes against minorities.
  • Demand for separate religious states (e.g., Partition of India in 1947).
  • Violence in the name of religion (e.g., riots and conflicts).
• How democracy counters communalism?
  • The Constitution provides Fundamental Rights for religious freedom.
  • Political leaders should promote secular values.
  • Strict laws against hate speech and religious violence.

Indian Secularism

• India follows the principle of secularism, meaning:
  • No official state religion.
  • Equal treatment of all religions.
  • Freedom to practice, propagate, and follow any religion.
  • Democracy ensures religious freedom, but communalism threatens democratic values.

Caste and Politics

Caste System in India

• Caste is a social division based on birth, particularly prevalent in Hindu society.
• Traditionally, the caste system divided people into four varnas:
  • Brahmins – Priests and scholars.
  • Kshatriyas – Warriors and rulers.
  • Vaishyas – Traders and merchants.
  • Shudras – Workers and laborers.
• Dalits (Scheduled Castes) were historically discriminated against and treated as “untouchables.”

Caste and Discrimination

• The caste system led to social inequalities, limited access to education, and economic disparities.
• The Indian Constitution abolished untouchability (Article 17).
• Reservation policies were introduced to help Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).

Role of Caste in Politic

• Caste-based political parties and voting – Many people vote based on caste identity.
• Reservation policies – Ensuring representation of lower castes in government jobs and education.

How Politics Influences Caste?

• Caste-based political mobilization has given lower castes a greater voice in democracy.
• Dalit leaders like B.R. Ambedkar worked for caste equality.
• Many caste-based movements demand more reservations.

Changing Nature of Caste System

• Caste divisions have weakened due to urbanization, economic growth, and education.
• Inter-caste marriages and job opportunities have helped reduce caste barriers.
• However, caste-based discrimination still exists in rural areas.
• Caste influences democracy, but democracy also helps reduce caste inequalities.

Conclusion

Gender and Politics

• Women face discrimination in education, jobs, and wages.
• Feminist movements have pushed for equal rights.
• Women’s political participation is increasing (33% reservation in Panchayati Raj).

Religion and Politics

• India is a secular country, ensuring religious freedom.
• Communalism threatens democracy (e.g., religious riots, political polarization).
• The Constitution ensures religious equality and protection of minorities.

Caste and Politics

• Caste system led to historical discrimination.
• Reservation policies help lower castes gain representation.
• Democracy has weakened caste-based discrimination over time.