Explain the reservation policy and abolition of untouchability.

Post independence, the government took various steps to bring about equality in the social life of the people. The most prominent measures taken by the government were:

a) Abolition of Untouchability: The government recognised that untouchability was a social sin that plagued the society and prevented development. They understood the ramifications of the caste system, and took prompt measures to criminalise untouchability and promote equality. As a first step, the dalits were granted access to temples and wells, and steps were taken to ensure their integration into the society.

b) Reservation Policy: In order to undo the years of discrimination and consequences of deprivation, the government decided to provide positive support measures to the dalit and adivasi community. This was done in the form of reservations. Seats were reserved for the disadvantaged communities in legislatures, educational institutions and government jobs. The rationale behind the reservation was that years of discriminatory practices had systematically disadvantaged the SCs and STs and denied access to education and better lifestyles.