Introduction: What is Social Justice?

• Justice means fairness in society.
• Social justice ensures that every individual gets equal rights and opportunities regardless of caste, gender, religion, or economic background.
• It aims to reduce inequalities and protect the rights of marginalized groups.

Why is Social Justice Important?

• Ensures fairness and equality in opportunities.
• Protects weaker sections from exploitation.
• Reduces discrimination based on caste, gender, or class.
• Promotes harmony and democracy in society.

Principles of Social Justice

Equal Treatment for All

• No discrimination based on caste, gender, or wealth.
• Equal access to education, healthcare, and jobs.

Protection of Weaker Sections

• Special policies for SCs, STs, OBCs, women, and disabled individuals.
• Example: Reservations in education and jobs.

Fair Distribution of Resources

• Wealth and income should not be concentrated in a few hands.
• Example: Land reforms to give land to poor farmers.

Removing Social Barriers

• Ending untouchability, gender bias, and caste-based discrimination.
• Promoting social inclusion and equal representation.

Theories of Justice

John Rawls’ Theory of Justice

• Justice should be based on fairness and equality.
• Two principles:
  • Equal Rights for All – Every person should have equal political and civil rights.
  • Help the Least Advantaged – Policies should benefit the poorest sections first.

Gandhian View of Justice

• Justice should focus on rural development and self-reliance.
• Non-violence and equality should be the foundation of society.

Karl Marx’s Theory of Justice

• Justice means removing economic inequalities.
• The working class should control the economy, not the rich.

Social Justice and the Indian Constitution

Fundamental Rights and Social Justice

Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) and Social Justice

Affirmative Action and Reservation Policy

What is Affirmative Action?

• Affirmative Action means special provisions to uplift weaker sections of society.
• It corrects historical injustices faced by SCs, STs, OBCs, and women.

Reservation in India

• SC/ST reservations in education and government jobs (Article 15 & 16).
• OBC reservations after Mandal Commission (1991).
• 10% reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) in 2019.

Arguments For and Against Reservations

Economic Justice and Welfare Policies

Reducing the Wealth Gap

• Progressive taxation (higher taxes for the rich).
• Welfare programs like free healthcare and education.

Government Welfare Schemes

• MGNREGA (2005) – 100 days of guaranteed wage employment.
• Mid-Day Meal Scheme – Free meals for school children.
• Ayushman Bharat Scheme – Free healthcare for poor families.

Gender Justice: Equality for Women

Problems Faced by Women

• Gender discrimination in jobs and education.
• Domestic violence and harassment.
• Unequal pay for equal work.

Government Measures for Gender Justice

• Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao – Encouraging girl child education.
• Maternity Benefit Act (2017) – Paid maternity leave.
• Reservation for women in Panchayati Raj (33%).

Caste and Social Justice

Caste Discrimination in India

• Untouchability and caste-based exclusion.
• Limited access to education and employment for lower castes.

Steps to Promote Caste Equality

• Abolition of Untouchability (Article 17).
• Reservation for SCs and STs in education and jobs.
• Scholarships and financial aid for Dalit students.

Challenges in Achieving Social Justice

Conclusion

• Social justice ensures fairness, equality, and dignity for all.
• Theories of justice by Rawls, Gandhi, and Marx provide different perspectives.
• The Indian Constitution protects social justice through laws and policies.
• Reservations and welfare programs help weaker sections progress.
• Challenges like caste bias, gender discrimination, and corruption must be tackled.