Question

Why was the struggle for equality important  in the making of Modern India? 

Answer 1

Prior to independence, Indian society was not only being oppressed by the ruling British class; it was becoming socially backward because of the inherent discrimination and inequality based on caste, religion, gender or economic status. The political movement to gain independence was not only influenced by the political views but also by the social views present at that time. The main influencers understood that the political movement, which was based inherently on the emancipation of the common people, would only be further strengthened when the various disadvantages in society were also addressed. Equality in society would lead to an undivided front, which could be utilized to fight the foreign oppressors. Societal ills like feudalism, economic exploitation, caste and religion-based discrimination, and oppression of women all needed to be addressed if India was to gain her independence and approach a modern era. Hence, the struggle for equality was important in the making of modern India. This has led to equality, a principle recognized by the Indian Constitution. It states that all Indians are equal before the law and there should not be any discrimination on the basis of caste, religion, sex or financial status.