The Kerala United Theological Seminary
Thiruvanathapuram
Interdisciplinary Paper
Course Code: (BID02)
Subject: Justice, Peace and Overcoming Violence: Biblical and Ethical
perspectives
Topic: Peace and justice initiatives in India: Narratives from social movements
Submitted to: Rev. Dr. Santy S. Paul & Rev. Sandeep Oommen.
Presented by: Kolapudi Grace Angel
Presentation Date: 28/02/2025
Course: B.D IV- B
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Introduction
The India, a diverse and complex nation, faces numerous challenges that threaten its
quest for peace and justice. From caste-based discrimination and religious intolerance
to gender inequality and economic disparity, deep-rooted social issues persist, fuelling
conflict and social unrest. Social movements have played a crucial role in addressing
these problems, advocating for the rights of marginalized communities and
challenging systemic inequalities. This essay explores the major issues faced by India,
analyzes them through the lens of conflict theory, and discusses potential solutions to
foster a more inclusive, equitable society. By examining these struggles, we gain
insight into the ongoing efforts for justice and peace in India.
1. Problems
India faces several deep-seated issues that fuel social unrest and necessitate the rise of
social movements. Some of these pressing issues are:
Caste-based Discrimination
Caste-based discrimination is one of the most persistent issues in India, despite being
constitutionally outlawed. The caste system, deeply ingrained in Indian society,
continues to marginalize millions of Dalits (previously known as untouchables) and
other lower-caste groups. These communities often face exclusion from social,
economic, and educational opportunities, as well as violence and discrimination. For
instance, Dalits are frequently subjected to manual labor, denied access to temples,
and face discrimination in housing and employment. The caste system's impact has
been so entrenched that it has shaped political, economic, and cultural hierarchies in
India. Movements like the Dalit Panther Movement, led by leaders such as Dr. B.R.
Ambedkar and later, contemporary organizations like the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP),
have emerged to challenge the caste system's grip on Indian society. They demand
equal rights and strive to eradicate untouchability practices. However, despite these
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efforts, caste-based violence, such as honor killings and social ostracization, continues
to plague many parts of the country. 1
Religious Discrimination and Communal Violence
Communal violence between religious communities, particularly between Hindus and
Muslims, is another major issue in India. The historical context of partition and
religious-based politics has created fault lines that are often exploited by political
actors. For instance, the 2002 Gujarat riots, where hundreds of Muslims were killed
and their properties destroyed, reflect the dangers of religious intolerance. Religious
polarization continues to fuel violence and social discord, particularly during election
periods when communal rhetoric is often used to rally support. The role of religious
leaders and political elites in manipulating and exploiting religious sentiments to
maintain control over their constituencies exacerbates these tensions. Many Muslims,
Sikhs, and other religious minorities continue to face discrimination in various forms,
from hate crimes to limited access to resources. Social movements like the Indian
Muslim Youth Movement (IMYM) have worked to combat these issues by fostering
interfaith dialogues and pushing for greater protection and equal rights for religious
minorities.2
Gender Inequality
Gender inequality remains a pervasive issue in India, particularly in the form of
violence, discrimination, and unequal opportunities for women. The brutal gang rape
and murder of a young woman in Delhi in 2012, known as the Nirbhaya case, became
a turning point in India's feminist movement. The outrage that followed led to
significant changes in laws regarding sexual violence and the establishment of fast-
track courts for such cases. However, gender-based violence, including domestic
violence, sexual harassment, and human trafficking, remains alarmingly widespread.
Additionally, women face challenges in gaining access to education, employment, and
healthcare. The patriarchal culture prevalent in many regions limits women’s mobility
1 Ambedkar, B.R. Annihilation of Caste (Mumbai: Thacker & Co., 1944), 12.
2 Gandhi, Mahatma. Hind Swaraj (Ahmedabad: Navjivan Publishing House, 1938), 88.
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and autonomy. Movements like the MeToo movement in India have brought attention
to the widespread sexual harassment and violence faced by women in both public and
private spheres. Activists and feminist organizations call for stronger laws, better
enforcement, and a cultural shift toward gender equality. 3
Land Acquisition and Environmental Justice
The acquisition of land from indigenous people and farmers for large-scale industrial
projects, urbanization, and infrastructure development is a contentious issue in India.
The displacement of tribal communities, farmers, and rural populations for projects
like dams, mining, and highways has often been carried out with minimal consultation
or compensation. This issue is particularly prevalent in regions such as the Narmada
Valley, where the construction of the Sardar Sarovar Dam led to the displacement of
thousands of people without adequate rehabilitation. The Narmada Bachao Andolan
(NBA), led by Medha Patkar, has been one of the most prominent movements to resist
the displacement of indigenous communities. The conflict arises when economic
development projects, such as mining and industrialization, prioritize profit over the
livelihoods of marginalized communities. Environmental degradation, destruction of
forests, and loss of agricultural land due to industrial projects exacerbate these
injustices, further harming rural communities. The need for more sustainable
development models that prioritize the rights of these communities while ensuring
environmental protection is crucial for peace and justice.4
Economic Inequality
India is home to one of the highest rates of income inequality in the world. While
India has seen rapid economic growth, this growth has largely benefited the urban
elite and multinational corporations, leaving millions of rural and urban poor in
precarious situations. The rich-poor divide has resulted in stark disparities in access to
quality education, healthcare, and housing. In urban areas, informal laborers, who are
3 “India Caste System,” BBC News, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-32646720, accessed
February 25, 2025.
4 Patkar, Medha. “Resistance to Land Acquisition in India,” Development Studies Quarterly, Vol. 31,
No. 2, 2008. 43-45.
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often migrant workers, live in slums with inadequate facilities and are vulnerable to
exploitation and abuse. On the other hand, rural areas continue to suffer from a lack of
access to basic services, with many farmers struggling to make a living due to poor
infrastructure, inadequate irrigation facilities, and fluctuating market prices for crops.
Social movements focused on labor rights, such as the National Alliance of People’s
Movements (NAPM), demand better wages, labor conditions, and social security for
workers. The need for economic justice, where wealth is more equitably distributed, is
a fundamental part of India’s ongoing struggle for peace and justice.5
2.Conflict Theory
It was done by Karl Marx, Max Weber, C. Wright Mills. Conflict theory emphasizes
the role of power struggles and social inequalities in shaping societies. In the Indian
context, it can be applied to analyze the dynamics between different social groups,
such as the elite and marginalized communities. Movements that seek justice (e.g.,
land rights movements, labor strikes, and anti-corruption campaigns) often emerge as
a direct response to entrenched power structures that perpetuate inequalities. 6
3.Understanding the Issues via Conflict Theory Analysis
Analyzing India's social issues through the lens of conflict theory reveals the systemic
nature of these conflicts, as they are driven by the unequal distribution of power and
resources. Let's look at some of the issues highlighted earlier and apply conflict
theory to understand them in greater depth:
Caste-based Discrimination
Caste-based discrimination is a form of social stratification that has existed for
centuries in India. According to conflict theory, the upper castes, who have
historically held political and economic power, continue to use their influence to
5 Weber, Max. Economy and Society (Berkeley: University of California Press, 1978), 241.
6 Mills, C. Wright. The Power Elite (New York: Oxford University Press, 1956), 32.
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maintain this hierarchical social structure. Dalits, the lowest caste, are seen as the
oppressed class in this dynamic. The violence, discrimination, and exploitation they
face are the result of a power struggle where the dominant castes perpetuate the status
quo to retain their privileges. The resistance of Dalit movements, like the Dalit
Panthers, is an attempt to disrupt this system and challenge the authority of the upper
castes. From a conflict theory perspective, the Dalit struggle is not just about social
equality but about dismantling a deeply entrenched system of domination. 7
Religious Discrimination
Religious discrimination in India can be understood as a power struggle between
religious communities. In particular, Hindu political elites have historically dominated
the political landscape, while Muslim and Christian communities have often been
marginalized. Conflict theory suggests that religious discrimination is not an isolated
issue but a byproduct of the broader socio-political struggle for power. Political
leaders often exploit religious identity to consolidate their base, which exacerbates
tensions between communities. The rise of Hindu nationalism, for example, can be
seen as an effort by certain elites to maintain dominance by using religious
polarization to divide the electorate. Social movements seeking religious equality aim
to challenge these power structures and demand equal treatment for all communities. 8
Gender Inequality
Gender inequality in India is a product of patriarchal power structures that have been
reinforced over centuries. Conflict theory posits that men, especially those from
upper-caste and elite backgrounds, have historically held power in both public and
private spheres. Women’s oppression is perpetuated through laws, cultural practices,
and social norms that limit their freedom and opportunities. The feminist movement
in India challenges these power structures by advocating for women’s rights,
autonomy, and equality. The conflict lies in the resistance from patriarchal institutions
and attitudes that continue to control women’s lives. Social movements like the Me
7 Chakravarti, Uma. Gendering Caste: Through a Feminist Lens, (Kolkata: Stree, 2003),83.
8 Cohen, Robin. The Indian Muslims (Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2004), 64..
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Too movement aim to disrupt this control and demand a shift in power dynamics,
emphasizing gender equality as a fundamental right. 9
Land and Environmental Justice
The conflict over land rights is a classic example of how economic development often
comes at the expense of marginalized communities. Tribal communities and farmers,
whose livelihoods depend on land, are often forcibly displaced by industrial projects.
Conflict theory helps explain this issue by highlighting the struggle between the
government and corporations, who represent the elite, and the rural and tribal
populations who lose their land. Movements like the Narmada Bachao Andolan have
resisted these land acquisitions, arguing that the development agenda benefits a few
while displacing many. The conflict is not just about land but about who controls the
resources and how power is distributed in the country.10
Economic Inequality
Economic inequality in India is the result of the concentration of wealth in the hands
of a few, while the majority of the population remains impoverished. Conflict theory
views this as an inherent flaw of capitalism, where the rich exploit the labor of the
poor. The urban elite and multinational corporations benefit from this system, while
the working class and rural populations struggle to make a living. Movements
advocating for workers rights, fair wages, and land redistribution challenge this
economic system by demanding better conditions for the marginalized. These
movements aim to dismantle the power structures that allow a small elite to control
the wealth and resources of the country, calling for a more equitable distribution of
resources.11
9 Chakravarti, Uma. Gendering Caste: Through a Feminist Lens,( Kolkata: Stree, 2003),63.
10 Patkar, Medha. “Resistance to Land Acquisition in India,” Development Studies Quarterly, Vol. 31,
No. 2, 2008, 86.
11 Weber, Max. Economy and Society (Berkeley: University of California Press, 1978),
241.
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4.Theological Perspectives on social issues in India
Theological perspectives can offer profound insights into addressing India’s social
issues such as caste-based discrimination, religious intolerance, gender inequality, and
economic disparity. In Hinduism, the teachings of ahimsa (non-violence) and the
unity of all souls challenge caste-based oppression and promote equality. Reformers
like Swami Vivekananda and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar rejected the caste system on
theological grounds, advocating for social justice and human dignity. Christianity
emphasizes the inherent worth of all individuals, with teachings like “love thy
neighbor” advocating for the elimination of discrimination. The liberation theology
movement, focusing on social justice, emphasizes standing with the oppressed,
particularly in addressing economic inequalities. 12
In Islam, the concept of equality before God and the call for compassionate
stewardship of the Earth offer a theological foundation for gender equality,
environmental justice, and combating poverty. Islam’s emphasis on justice and
balance urges fair resource distribution and a society that values every individual’s
dignity. The Quran encourages social equity and condemns exploitation. Ultimately,
these religious teachings highlight a common ethical thread: respect for human
dignity, equality, and justice. Theological perspectives provide a moral compass to
challenge systemic inequalities in India, fostering a vision of peace, fairness, and
inclusivity in addressing the country’s deep-rooted social issues.13
5.Current Societal Issues and Approaches to Solutions
In contemporary India, many issues persist that have their roots in systemic
inequalities. Present-day issues include the ongoing farmer protests, gender-based
12 “India Caste System,” BBC News, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-32646720, accessed
February 25, 2025.
13 Mills, C. Wright. The Power Elite (New York: Oxford University Press, 1956), 35..
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violence, environmental justice concerns, and labor rights, each of which is deeply
linked to the larger conflicts in Indian society. 14
Farmer Protests
The recent farmer protests, which began in 2020 against the controversial farm laws,
highlight the growing divide between the Indian government and rural farmers. The
new laws were designed to liberalize the agricultural market but were seen by farmers
as a threat to their livelihoods. Farmers fear that the laws will lead to the privatization
of agriculture, reducing their bargaining power and exposing them to exploitation by
large corporations. The protests have been widespread, with farmers from Punjab,
Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh leading the charge. From a conflict theory perspective,
this struggle represents a class conflict between the rural poor, who rely on agriculture
for survival, and the urban elite, including the government and corporate interests,
who seek to benefit from privatized agriculture. The solution lies in negotiations
between the farmers and the government, ensuring that farmers rights are protected
and that any changes to the agricultural sector prioritize their welfare over corporate
profit.15
Gender-based Violence
Gender-based violence remains a critical issue in India, with a rise in cases of rape,
domestic violence, and harassment. The Nirbhaya case in 2012 highlighted the
severity of the problem and led to widespread protests and calls for stronger laws.
However, violence against women continues to be pervasive in both rural and urban
areas. The root cause of this violence is the deeply entrenched patriarchal system that
grants men power over women. Solutions to this problem include stricter law
enforcement, better education on gender equality, and cultural change to challenge the
patriarchal attitudes that perpetuate violence. Social movements like MeToo and other
14 “Farmer Protests in India,” The New York Times,
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/12/05/world/asia/india-farmers-protests.html, accessed February 25,
2025.
15 Gandhi, Mahatma. Hind Swaraj (Ahmedabad: Navjivan Publishing House, 1938), 43..
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grassroots feminist organizations continue to challenge the status quo and demand
justice for women.16
Environmental Justice
Environmental degradation due to unchecked industrialization and deforestation poses
significant challenges to India's sustainable development. The ongoing conflicts
surrounding land acquisition for large infrastructure projects, like dams and highways,
highlight the tensions between development and environmental conservation.
Movements like the Chipko Movement and the Narmada Bachao Andolan have
fought to protect the environment and the livelihoods of displaced communities. The
solution lies in adopting more sustainable development practices that take into
account the rights of indigenous and rural communities while promoting
environmental conservation. It is also crucial for the government to strengthen its
policies on environmental protection and land rights.17
Reflection
The India’s quest for peace and justice is deeply intertwined with the challenges of
caste-based discrimination, religious conflict, gender inequality, environmental
injustice, and economic disparity. Each of these problems reveals a power struggle
between marginalized communities and elites who control resources, resulting in
systemic exclusion and social unrest. Conflict theory offers a valuable lens to
understand these struggles, highlighting how power imbalances perpetuate social
inequality. The implications are significant, as these unresolved conflicts hinder
national unity, economic growth, and social harmony. However, social movements in
India continue to challenge these structures, advocating for a more just society. While
progress has been made in some areas, the persistence of these issues requires
continued efforts for meaningful reform. Addressing these conflicts is not only
16 Cohen, Robin. The Indian Muslims (Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2004), 32.
17 Gandhi, Mahatma. Hind Swaraj (Ahmedabad: Navjivan Publishing House, 1938), 75
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essential for ensuring justice but also for fostering a peaceful, inclusive future where
all individuals, regardless of caste, religion, or gender, can thrive.
Conclusion
India’s peace and justice initiatives have been shaped by the tireless work of social
movements challenging the entrenched power structures that perpetuate inequality
and exploitation. These movements address the multiple layers of oppression faced by
marginalized communities, including caste-based discrimination, religious violence,
gender inequality, and economic injustice. While the conflicts driving these
movements are deeply rooted in India's socio-political landscape, conflict theory
provides a useful framework for understanding these struggles as battles for power,
resources, and rights. To achieve lasting peace and justice, India needs to address the
systemic inequalities that fuel these conflicts. Solutions lie not only in legal reforms
but in changing the social and political structures that maintain the status quo. Social
movements, by challenging the prevailing power structures and demanding justice,
play a pivotal role in this transformation. For India to truly achieve peace and justice,
there must be a concerted effort to dismantle the deep-rooted inequalities that divide
society.
Bibliography
Ambedkar, B.R. Annihilation of Caste, Mumbai: Thacker & Co., 1944.
Cohen, Robin. The Indian Muslims, Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2004.
Chakravarti, Uma. Gendering Caste: Through a Feminist Lens, Kolkata: Stree, 2003.
Patkar, Medha. “Resistance to Land Acquisition in India,” Development Studies
Quarterly, Vol. 31, No. 2, 2008.
Weber, Max. Economy and Society, Berkeley: University of California Press, 1978.
Mills, C. Wright. The Power Elite, New York: Oxford University Press, 1956.
11
Gandhi, Mahatma. Hind Swaraj, Ahmedabad: Navjivan Publishing House, 1938.
Webliography
1. India Caste System, BBC News, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-
32646720. Accessed February 20, 2025.
2. Farmer Protests in India, The New York Times,
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/12/05/world/asia/india-farmers-protests.html.
Accessed February 20, 2025.
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