UNIT- III
BHIMRAO RAMJI AMBEDKAR
His Early Life
Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar (14 April 1891 – 6 December 1956) was an Indian economist, jurist, social
reformer and political leader who chaired the committee that drafted the Constitution of India based on
the debates of the Constituent Assembly of India. Ambedkar served as Law and Justice Minister in
the first cabinet of Jawaharlal Nehru. He later renounced Hinduism, converted to Buddhism and inspired
the Dalit Buddhist movement.
Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar was born in the town and military cantonment of Mhow, Madhya Pradesh.
Ambedkar's forefathers had long served in the British East India Company's army, and his father was a
member of the British Indian Army in the Mhow cantonment.
Despite attending school, Ambedkar and other untouchable children were kept apart and received little
attention or assistance from teachers. They were not permitted to touch the water or the vessel that carried
it. This task was generally completed for the young Ambedkar by the school peon, and if the peon was
unavailable, he had to go without water; he later described the circumstance as "No peon, No water" in
his works.
Ideas of Dr. Ambedkar on Social Justice
Ambedkar's vision of social justice is to promotes the liberty, equality, and brotherhood of all humans.
As a rationalist and humanist, he condemned any form of hypocrisy, injustice, or exploitation of man by
man in the guise of religion. He advocated for a religion founded on universal moral principles that may
be applied to all times, places, and races. It must follow reason and be founded on the fundamental
principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity.
He saw the caste system as the root cause of Hinduism's problems. According to him, the varna system is
the primary cause of all inequity, as well as the source of caste and untouchability. Ambedkar advocated
for a social system in which a man's rank is determined by his merit and achievements, and no one is
noble or untouchable because of his or her birth.
He argued for preferential treatment of the country's disadvantaged and economically exploited citizens.
The Indian Constitution, drafted under his supervision, has clauses ensuring justice, liberty, equality, and
fraternity for all residents. It also includes many measures that ensure preferential treatment for the
oppressed in a variety of industries. Article 17 of the Indian Constitution declares untouchability
eradicated and makes it a punishable offense.
Dr B.R. Ambedkar’s Efforts for Social Justice
According to Ambedkar, men do not become simply by living in proximity. It consists in sharing in the
associated activity. It is more or less cordial interrelationship between the human being living in a
geographical area.
The Indian society is a caste-society. The Hindu society is a collection of castes. Each caste is conscious
of its existence. It lacks common consciousness and prevents common activity. There is no division of
labour but division of labourers who are attached to predetermined occupations. There is no scope for the
growth of the sentiment of equality and fraternity. It has completely disorganised and demoralised the
Hindus.
He dedicated his life to the pursuit of social justice and the empowerment of marginalized communities in
India. His efforts for social justice were transformative and laid the foundation for the empowerment and
emancipation of marginalized communities in India. His legacy continues to inspire movements for
equality, social justice, and human rights worldwide.
Here are some key efforts and contributions he made towards this cause:
Campaign Against Untouchability
o Ambedkar had been called to testify before the Southborough Committee, which was drafting
the Government of India Act 1919. During this hearing, he advocated for separate electorates
and reservations for untouchables and other religious groups.
o While practicing law in the Bombay High Court, he attempted to educate and uplift
untouchables. His first organized effort was to establish the central institution “Bahishkrit
Hitakarini Sabha”, which aimed to promote education, socio-economic progress, and the
welfare of "outcastes," also known as depressed classes at the time.
o He founded several journals to advocate for Dalit rights, including Mook Nayak, Bahishkrit
Bharat, and Equality Janta.
Drafting of the Constitution
o As the chairman of the Constitution Drafting Committee, Dr Ambedkar played a crucial role in
framing the Constitution of India.
o He ensured that the Constitution included provisions for fundamental rights, abolition of
untouchability, and affirmative action to uplift socially disadvantaged groups.
Temple Entry Movement
o Ambedkar led movements to secure the rights of Dalits to enter Hindu temples, which were often
barred to them due to caste-based discrimination.
o His efforts aimed at challenging traditional caste hierarchies and promoting social equality.
o He led hundreds of followers in burning copies of Manusmriti. Thus, Ambedkarites and Dalits
commemorate Manusmriti Dahan Din (Manusmriti Burning Day) every year on December 25.
Labour Rights and Economic Reforms
o Ambedkar championed labour rights and advocated for economic reforms to improve the socio-
economic conditions of marginalised communities.
o He emphasised the need for land reforms and economic empowerment to address caste-based
inequalities.
Reservation Policy
o Ambedkar was instrumental in introducing reservation policies in education and government jobs
to ensure representation and opportunities for Dalits and other backward classes.
o Dr. Ambedkar's advocacy for reservation policies aimed at providing opportunities for
historically disadvantaged groups continues to be relevant. These policies aimed to mitigate
historical injustices and provide avenues for social mobility.
Conversion to Buddhism
o In 1956, Ambedkar led a mass conversion of Dalits to Buddhism as a symbolic rejection of the
caste system and Hindu social hierarchy.
o This movement highlighted his vision for social equality and religious freedom.
Dr. Ambedkar’s Concept of Social Justice - Relevance in the Present Scenario
Dr. BR Ambedkar concept of social justice remains highly relevant in the present scenario for several
reasons:
Empowerment of Marginalised Communities: He advocated for the education and empowerment
of marginalised communities like Dalits, Adivasis, and other backward classes. His focus on
education as a tool for empowerment is crucial in addressing socio-economic disparities.
Inclusion and Diversity: He emphasised the importance of inclusive development that encompasses
the aspirations of all sections of society. In today's diverse world, his vision calls for policies and
practices that embrace diversity and promote social inclusion.
Human Rights and Dignity: His emphasis on fundamental rights and human dignity is crucial in the
context of contemporary challenges such as social exclusion, violence against marginalised groups,
and violations of basic rights.
Intersectionality: Dr. Ambedkar's approach to social justice recognises the inter-sectionality of
identities and inequalities. His ideas inspire a holistic approach to addressing multiple forms of
discrimination based on caste, gender, religion, and economic status.
Global Relevance: His struggle against social injustice and his advocacy for democratic values
resonate globally. His ideas on social justice contribute to broader discussions on human rights,
equality, and inclusive development worldwide.
Conclusion
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's concept of social justice provides a foundational framework for addressing
contemporary socio-economic and political challenges. Embracing his vision entails commitment to
equality, dignity, and empowerment for all individuals, ensuring that his legacy continues to guide efforts
towards a more just and inclusive society.
