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Untouchability is one of the oldest social evils that has existed in human society. It refers to a practice where certain groups of people are considered impure and are discriminated against based on birth or caste. This system has been deeply rooted in various cultures, particularly in India, where it was linked to the caste system. Despite being legally abolished, traces of untouchability still exist in some parts of the world. In this blog, we will explore the history, effects, and ways to eliminate this practice with the help of an essay on untouchability.
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History of Untouchability in India
The Sanskrit word “Dalit,” which means “broken” or “downtrodden,” is the root of the phrase used to refer to the untouchables. Although some people think that the untouchability system is exclusive to India, it is also common in Tibet, Japan, and Korea.
The caste system is based on Vedic writings that categorise individuals into four main groups: Shudras, or sanitary workers; Vaishyas, or small businessmen and merchants; Kshatriyas, or warriors; and Brahmans, or priests and elites. As a result, the caste and occupation of the people in ancient India accounted for the majority of these variations.
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Essay on Untouchability of 150 Words
The practice of discriminating against different people and groups based on their caste and the work they perform is known as untouchability. The practice of untouchability has existed for a very long time. It operates on the hierarchy of the Indian caste system. Due to their lower caste status, untouchables typically endure cruel treatment. They have been subjected to discrimination in practically every setting.
Prominent leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar put up a fierce fight to end the practice of untouchability. Therefore, the efforts of these individuals provided the Dalits with a legitimate opportunity to establish themselves and increased the likelihood of equality, harmony, and fraternity within the community.
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Essay on Untouchability of 200 Words
Untouchability is a social evil that has existed in many societies for centuries. It is a practice where certain groups of people are treated as inferior and are denied basic rights just because of their birth. In India, it was mainly associated with the caste system, where lower-caste people were considered “untouchable” and were not allowed to mix with higher-caste people.
Untouchability caused great suffering to many people. They were not allowed to enter temples, schools, or even public places. They faced discrimination in jobs, education, and daily life. This practice was not only unfair but also inhumane.
Fortunately, many social reformers like Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar fought against untouchability. Their efforts led to the abolition of this practice in India. The Indian Constitution, adopted in 1950, made untouchability illegal. Today, strict laws are in place to punish those who discriminate against others based on caste.
Although untouchability is banned, some forms of discrimination still exist. It is important for all of us to treat each other with equality and respect. Society can only progress when there is no discrimination, and every person gets equal opportunities to live with dignity.
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Essay on Untouchability of 500 words
Untouchability has been defined differently in different eras. The practice of untouchability dates back to about 1500 and 800 BC. The idea of untouchability is ancient and has been used historically. One definition of it would be the separation of a group of people from the general population on the basis of their caste and subcaste.
Different names were used for the untouchables at different periods. For example, during the Vedic era, they were referred to as “Chandala.” They were referred to as the “Achhuta” in the Middle Ages and as the “Exterior Caste” or “Depressed Castes” during British rule.
The caste system is the foundation of the untouchability practice, where those who are untouchable fall under the final varna known as Avarnas, which translates to “not belonging to any caste.” Gutter cleaners, scavengers, watchmen, sweepers, and those who cleaned pigs and calves were among the lowly duties assigned to Avarna residents. Dalits are the current term for members of the Avarna caste. Their advancement and development are referred to by the Indian Constitution as the “Scheduled Castes.”
The government has enacted laws to shield the Dalits from further violence after realizing how oppressed they have been by society. The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Act of 1955 was passed to give the lower castes financial and legal support, while the Protection of Civil Rights Act of 1955 was passed to safeguard individuals who were subject to untouchability. In many regions of the nation, caste-based prejudice and untouchability persist despite constitutional amendments and government-passed laws. Compared to their rural counterparts, Dalits in urban settings are less vulnerable.
Dalits from rural areas are prohibited from entering the community because they are thought to contaminate the village’s wholesome environment. Electricity, drinking water, and other necessities are not supplied since they are deemed insufficient. The rural Dalits, who are afraid for their life and have no one to support them, have accepted their faith as written by such orthodox people. The politicians are dishonest and only worry about winning more votes and occupying more positions of authority, even at the expense of innocent people who merely wish to live honourable lives.
In the eyes of the law, everyone is equal, and discrimination based on caste or subcaste is intolerable. Laws that will aid in the advancement of Dalits in society have been introduced by the government. Rural residents have been continuously educated about fundamental human rights and how untouchability is a direct violation of them. People who forbid Dalits from entering places of worship, where they are not permitted to consume food or drink water, face harsh consequences. Teaching the next generation about these immoral behaviors is crucial since it will help sow a seed that will sprout and alter society’s viewpoint.
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Tips for Writing an Essay on Untouchability
Here we have mentioned a few of the best strategies and tips that help you write the best essay on untouchability:
- Do your research by knowing the history of untouchability and the caste system. After researching, you will have sufficient options to form.
- It’s not enough to just know the definition; it’s also important to familiarise yourself with some of the different ways in which it can be achieved so that you’ll have more material for your essay.
- Be creating white writing a title of your essay and keep your thesis clear and concise.
- Use real-life examples to illustrate your points. This will make your essay more interesting and engaging.
- Proofread carefully to avoid any mistakes. A well-written essay is always more impressive and creates a good impression without any grammatical errors or spelling.
- Get feedback from a friend or classmate. They can offer helpful insights and suggestions which will improve the quality of your essay.
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FAQs
A type of social institution known as untouchability legitimises and upholds actions that are exploitative, humiliating, exclusive, and discriminatory against members of particular social groups.
Untouchability originated from the caste system, particularly in India, where lower-caste people were considered impure and were restricted from public spaces and opportunities.
Untouchability leads to discrimination, inequality, and denial of human rights. It causes economic, social, and psychological harm to affected individuals.
It results in social exclusion, economic backwardness, mental trauma, and violence against marginalised communities.
Although it is legally banned in many countries, traces of untouchability and caste-based discrimination still exist in some areas.
Mahatma Gandhi worked to uplift the lower castes, calling them “Harijans” (children of God), and promoted equality through campaigns and reforms.
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