NCERT Notes: Grade 8 Social Science - Political Science - Chapter 10: Law and Social Justice

Introduction

In a diverse country like India, the law plays an essential role in ensuring social justice. Law and social justice are intertwined, working together to make sure that no section of society is marginalized or oppressed.

Understanding Social Justice

Social justice pertains to a fair and just relationship between an individual and society. It is the foundation of a democratic society that aims for:

1. Equality: No discrimination based on caste, gender, religion, or place of birth.

2. Liberty: Freedom in all aspects of life.

3. Fraternity: A sense of brotherhood and understanding among people.

The Role of Law in Ensuring Social Justice

Equal Distribution of Resources

In any society, resources can’t be limited to a select few. Laws ensure:

• Equitable distribution of resources.

• Restrictions on the accumulation of resources by a few.

Protecting Marginalized Groups

Laws ensure that marginalized groups:

• Get proper representation in different spheres of life.

• Are protected from social discrimination and exploitation.

Law and the Protection of Workers

Ensuring Safe Working Conditions

• Laws mandate proper working conditions, ensuring workers’ health and safety.

• Regular inspections are conducted to ensure that businesses adhere to safety norms.

Fair Wages and Working Hours

• Laws ensure that workers get paid a minimum wage.

• They also limit the number of working hours, ensuring that workers aren’t exploited.

Child Labor and the Law

Child labor is a pressing issue in many developing countries, including India.

• Child Labor (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 prohibits the employment of children below the age of 14 in hazardous industries.

• There’s a continuous struggle to eradicate child labor completely, given the socio-economic challenges.

The Bhopal Gas Tragedy

Highlighting the need for strict regulations, the Bhopal Gas Tragedy in 1984 was a catastrophic industrial disaster. Laws post the tragedy:

• Have made it mandatory for industries to follow safety norms.

• Have emphasized the importance of the welfare of the workers and the surrounding communities.

Laws for Environmental Justice

Given the rapid pace of industrialization, environmental concerns have become paramount. Laws ensure:

• Conservation of Nature: Protecting forests, wildlife, and aquatic life.

• Sustainable Development: Balancing development with environmental conservation.

The Ganga Action Plan

Initiated in 1985, this was an ambitious project to clean the Ganga. It underscores:

• The role of law in conserving our natural resources.

• The challenges in implementing laws, given the wide range of pollutants and vast stretch of the river.

Challenges in Implementation

While laws for social justice are in place, their implementation remains a challenge due to:

• Corruption: At various levels, which hampers the execution of laws.

• Lack of Awareness: Many people remain unaware of their rights and the laws that protect them.

• Socio-economic Factors: Poverty, illiteracy, and social discrimination hinder the effective implementation of laws.

Conclusion

While laws lay the groundwork for establishing social justice, it’s the collective responsibility of the government and the citizens to ensure their proper implementation. Law and social justice, together, make the dream of an equitable and fair society a reality.

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Reference: NCERT Grade 8 Social Science - Political Science - Chapter 10: Law and Social Justice

Note: This article is a summary and interpretation of Chapter 10 from the Social Science NCERT textbook for Grade 8. It’s recommended to refer to the original textbook for comprehensive details and understanding.