The base of India’s social structure is caste and sub-caste. Infact, caste systems has been an integral part of Indian society. In ancient times, varna’ system started in India which had four ‘varnas’- Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Shudras. Thus, the basis of caste.
Some of these became higher castes and others lower castes. The people belonging to higher castes started treating other as belonging to lower castes and, thus, started the practice of ‘untouchability’. It is matter of shame that the Indian culture, which gave to the world the message of world-brotherhood, should call some of its own brother’s untouchables.
The Brahmins established their monopoly over temples and other places of worship. The Shudras were declared ‘untouchables’. They were neither allowed to enter the temples nor even to take water from the well which was used by upper caste Hindus.
The members belonging to lower castes, were treated worse than animals. The system developed under Muslim and British rule. The Britishers, in accordance with their policy of ‘Divide and Rule’, further encourage it.
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Although the Constitution provided for abolition of untouchability, yet the practice continues to some extent even up to the present day. Laws have been passed by Parliament for the abolition of untouchability.
The Constitution also forbids discrimination against any citizen on the basis of caste or religion. Nobody can be denied access to any shop, public restaurant, hotel or place or entertainment or use of wells, parks and roads etc. on grounds only of caste, religion, community, etc. Seats have been reserved for them in Parliament, State Legislatures and even in local bodies up to year 2010.