Independence Day - Political Freedom vs Social Freedom

On the account of 77th year of Indian independence, this article is in remembrance of the freedom fighters of our country and at the same time is a reminder on the need for social freedom even today after 76 years of independence. There have been communal riots and caste-based violence in India over the past few months which made me think that there is still a long way India must travel to overthrow all forms of oppression similar to how our freedom fighters overthrew the British dominance.

There is no doubt the resilient and persistent efforts of our freedom fighters in the struggle against the 89-year British rule in India needs to be celebrated. But, the freedom of the country should mean the freedom of each individual citizen of India. The struggle for political independence finds a place in the history textbooks of schools in India. The struggle for social freedom also has a parallel history which is not reiterated enough. This struggle has been prevalent right from the pre-independence era and is still an unrealized dream. 

The constitution of India declares India as secular and deems all its citizens equal. But, the fundamental right to equality is questioned every single time when a caste-based harrassment or violence comes to limelight. The unjust hierarchical structure of caste system is deep-rooted in Indian societies, in people's beliefs and mindset. The class-based inequalities which is universal combines with the caste-based inequalities in India. The recent riots in Manipur, violence in Haryana and the caste based brutality in Nanguneri in Tamilnadu reflects the pity state of the society we live in. The penetration of this caste pride to the level that it gets carried over to the next generation is the danger our society poses.

Most of the incidents of caste based violence stem out from the unnecessary pride that the upper castes hold and the self-inflicted inferior feeling that the lower castes suffer from due to the inveterate age-old beliefs. 

Dr. Ambedkar, one of the prominent leaders India had and his writings against the social order and the social injustice stay relevant even today. Bhagat Singh, the socialist icon of India and his principles and beliefs against the class inequalities is also need of the hour. Mahatma Gandhi's non-violent struggle against the britishers and preachings on religious unity stand as a testimony to the harmony he dreamt of.

While we celebrate the history of freedom struggle and the leaders who brought about the uprising of people against the British rule, we will also acknowledge the need to carry forward the awareness about fight for social freedom. Let us unite together and be the voice against any form of oppression - be it class-based or caste-based or gender-based. 

Happy Independence day!