Equality in Indian Democracy – Vocabulary Review

A set of vocabulary flashcards summarising key terms related to equality in Indian democracy and comparative contexts.

Equality (Indian context)

The constitutional principle that every individual is recognised and treated as equal regardless of caste, religion, gender, tribe, education, or economic status.

Indian Constitution

The supreme law of India that lays down basic rules for citizens and government, including guarantees of equality and non-discrimination.

Article 15

A constitutional article that prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth and guarantees equal access to public places.

Equality before law

The rule that every person—from the President to a domestic worker—must obey the same laws and is entitled to equal legal protection.

Untouchability

An oppressive social practice abolished by the Constitution that once barred certain castes from public spaces and social interaction.

Government schemes

Programmes set up to reduce inequality and support disadvantaged communities, such as midday meals and other welfare initiatives.

Midday Meal Scheme

A programme providing cooked lunch in government elementary schools to boost enrolment, nutrition, and social integration among children.

Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger)

A UN goal to end hunger and improve nutrition, linked in India to initiatives like the midday meal programme.

Discrimination

Unfair or prejudicial treatment of people based on identity factors such as caste, religion, gender, disability, or economic status.

Dignity

The sense of self-worth and respect to which every person is entitled; a core value underpinning equality in a democracy.

Universal Adult Franchise

The right of all citizens aged 18 and above to vote, irrespective of social or economic background—an essential feature of democracy.

Civil Rights Movement

A 1950s–60s mass movement in the USA that demanded equal rights and an end to racial discrimination against African Americans.

Rosa Parks

African American woman whose 1955 refusal to give up her bus seat sparked widespread protest and propelled the Civil Rights Movement.

African Americans

Descendants of enslaved Africans in the USA who, despite legal advances, continue to face significant socio-economic inequality.

Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016

Indian law guaranteeing equal rights, accessibility, and inclusive education for persons with disabilities.

Challenge of democracy

The ongoing effort within democratic societies to expand equality, protect dignity, and address emerging issues of injustice.

Self-respect (B.R. Ambedkar)

A vital human value; Ambedkar stressed that life without self-respect is disgraceful and that equality requires constant struggle.

Public places (constitutional)

Spaces such as shops, restaurants, wells, roads, and parks that must remain open to all citizens without discrimination.

Parliament

The cornerstone of Indian democracy where citizens are represented through elected members who frame laws to uphold equality.