1. Introduction
Racism is the discrimination of a specific race based on certain characteristics and abilities, which divides people into us and them. It is prejudice against people based on their skin color or where they come from. Many cases of visible racism against Indians have been reported around the world due to their brown skin. However, racism is also visible in our countrys Indian communities. India, which is often praised for its cultural diversity and pluralism, is not immune to the global threat of racism. Despite its long history of tolerance and inclusivity, racial discrimination persists in various forms, highlighting the need for introspection and collaborative efforts to address this issue.
Prohibition of discrimination on the basis of race is one of the rights guaranteed to Indian citizens by the Indian constitution. Discrimination based on race refers to the unjust treatment of individuals or groups because of their race or ethnicity.
It violates the principle of legal equality and can have a negative impact on peoples mental and physical health, as well as their social and economic well-being.
2. History of racism in India
RIG VEDA PERIOD
Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras are the four castes in India. The Rig Veda period witnessed the earliest form of racism. The brahmins were considered the most affluent, followed by the kshatriyas and Vaishyas. Shudras were the lowest of the lowest. Because of their dark skin color and background, they were dubbed untouchables. No one was allowed to eat or sleep with them because the Brahmins considered them impure. They were referred to as the Black Tribe because of their dark complexion, which made them vulnerable to exploitation.
The dark-skinned heroes and warriors were lauded for their strength and bravery. Lord Krishna is the dark-colored incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Draupadi, the Mahabharats main female character, is described as a young, dark, and beautiful woman. This demonstrated that people valued beauty and charm regardless of skin color. Goddesses Kali and Parvati are also described as dark but stunning. As a result, caste discrimination definitely led to color discrimination during the Vedic period. Nonetheless, regardless of skin color, Ancient Mythology depicted every human with the same dignity and appreciation.
THE MUGHAL ERA
The Mughal invaders were also housed in India. These events resulted in the establishment of the Mughal empire in 1526. There is no clear illustration of the Mughal emperors hatred and prejudice based on skin color, caste, or background. However, Muslims and Arabs had a much fairer complexion than Indians. However, the skin tone differences did not cause any risk or harm to the community at large.
THE BRITISH RAJ
From 1858 to 1947, India was ruled by the British. This was an era when racial discrimination was at its worst. Because the British had extremely fair skin, they considered themselves to be the most superior and powerful. Because of a dark complexion, Indians were heavily denounced and faced with exploitation and harassment at the hands of the British rulers.
The relatively light-skinned Indians were assigned to the Army, while the dark-skinned were either denied employment or assigned to odd, degrading jobs. The untouchables then form a group and called themselves as Dalits
The Hindu Swaraj movement, led by Gandhiji, attempted not only to liberate India from British rule, but also to liberate the untouchables and Shudras from exploitation and oppression. Gandhiji referred to the Dalits as Harijans, which means Gods people.
The white skin rulers shaped Indian society based on skin complexion and caste. The white people became the ruling class, while the black people suffered from racial discrimination and oppression.
3. Various shades of racism in India
Cultural differences between regions
For centuries, there has been conflict between North Indians and South Indians, and different political groups have profited from these divisions. The people from these two different areas have never accepted their differences. There is a racial divide between the people of these two areas. The vast majority of North Indians are Caucasians with lighter skin. They have their own language, traditional clothing, and so on, which vary by state in North India. Southern India is dominated by the Dravidian people, who have darker skin complexions. Even their language, traditional clothing, and so on differ from state to state, though a common trait can be found in all.
Most of the time, such distinctions and racial discrimination between the two are seen as a result of economic and political differences. Because the locals are insecure of resources and political power is dominated by outsiders, such discrimination occurs. The locals do not appreciate a North Indian settling in a south Indian state and dominating that region politically or economically. They see it as a threat to their culture and survival.
Institutional racism
Institutional racial discrimination (or systemic racism) refers to racism that is organized into political and social institutions.
It happens when organizations, institutions, or governments discriminate against certain categories of people, either directly or indirectly, with the goal to limit their rights. This sort of racism reflects the dominant groups cultural assumptions, so that the practices of that group are considered as the norm to which other cultural practices should conform. It consistently and systematically benefits some ethnic and cultural groups while disadvantageing and marginalizing others.
Racism against Africans in India
Racism against Africans has been reported in India over the years. African students in India have faced discrimination, stereotyping, and, in some cases, violence. These incidents can be attributed to a variety of factors, including cultural differences, a lack of awareness, and media stereotypes. They face discrimination in the hiring process, rental housing, the local market, and other basic services. In addition, the state has failed to recognize and protect the rights of the African population. They are frequently subjected to verbal racism in public places, and peoples attitudes toward them are unjust. These peoples lives are mostly impacted in urban areas in India, where they live. They are also subjected to racism during the visa application process, and their approval is always questioned.
Awareness campaigns, cross-cultural interaction programs, and legal steps have all been implemented to address this issue. However, it is a continuing challenge that necessitates both societal and institutional changes in order to foster a more inclusive and understanding environment.
Colorism in India
Colorism has deep historical roots in India, influenced by factors such as the caste system and the colonial legacy. With the promotion of fairness products and the portrayal of specific skin tones as more desirable, the media plays a significant role in perpetuating color biases. This has resulted in a thriving market for skin-whitening products, which has contributed to a multibillion-dollar beauty industry. Colorism has far-reaching social consequences, affecting self-esteem, mental health, and interpersonal relationships in addition to its economic impact. Disparities in education and employment are also noticeable, with instances of preferential treatment based on skin color. However, there is a growing movement in the media to challenge and redefine beauty standards, as evidenced by campaigns advocating for diversity and inclusivity.
There are legal measures in place to address discriminatory practices, and activism at both the grassroots and societal levels helps to raise awareness and combat colorism. Personal narratives and case studies provide insight into those affecteds lived experiences. As India faces these challenges, there is a noticeable shift in attitudes, indicating a more inclusive and accepting society in the future.
Gender based racism
When addressing the intersectionality of discrimination, its critical to recognize that racism and sexism are distinct forms of prejudice that target different aspects of a persons identity. Racism is primarily about race and ethnicity, and it perpetuates bias and inequality based on these factors. Sexism, on the other hand, refers to gender discrimination that affects individuals based on their perceived or assigned sex. While these forms of discrimination frequently overlap, the term gender-based racism may not accurately describe the nuanced experiences that people face. To address these issues comprehensively, it is critical to recognize and combat racism and sexism separately, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society that recognizes and respects the diverse layers of human identity.
4. Anti discrimination acts
Racism is prohibited in various sections of the Indian constitution. The schedule of the Indian constitution includes the terms secular, equality, and social justice, which emphasizes the idea of individuals being protected from racism.[1]
Article 14 Constitution of India provides for equality before the law or equal protection of the laws within the territory of India. It states: The State shall not deny to any person equality before the law or the equal protection of the laws within the territory of India.
Article 15 of the Constitution of India forbids discrimination on grounds only of religion, race, caste, gender, or place of birth. It applies Article 14s general principle of equality in specific situations by forbidding classifications made on protected grounds
Article 16 It provided for equality of opportunity in all government employment. It stated that no citizen can be discriminated on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, descent, place of birth, or residence for government employment.
Article 17 of the indian constitution: Untouchability is abolished and its practice in any form is forbidden. The enforcement of any disability arising out of Untouchability shall be an offence punishable in accordance with law.
Article 21 No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to a procedure established by law.
Article 46The State shall promote with special care the educational and economic interests of the weaker sections of the people, and, in particular, of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes, and shall protect them from social injustice and all forms of exploitation.
Article 51(a)(e) According to this fundamental duty, it is the duty of the citizen to promote harmony and brotherhood among the people of a different religion.
Article 243 It seeks to reserve 1/3rd seats for oppressed sections like women, scheduled tribes and scheduled castes in panchayat and municipalities so as to give those marginalized sections a voice.
o The Caste Disabilities Removal Act, 1850 [2]
Its goal was to remove certain social and legal disabilities associated with caste, allowing converted individuals to integrate into mainstream society without jeopardizing their social and economic standing.
The Caste Disabilities Removal Act of 1850 is now considered in the context of Indias ongoing attempts to combat caste-based discrimination. Despite legal measures, social and economic disparities persist, and affirmative action programs aim to uplift marginalized communities and promote a more inclusive society. Ongoing discussions centre on the need for comprehensive social reforms to address deep-seated caste issues.
o The Civil Rights Act of 1955 [3]was enacted to address social injustices by outlawing untouchability and ensuring equal access to public places and services. It emphasizes the importance of protecting individuals civil rights, regardless of their background, in order to promote a more inclusive and egalitarian society.
o In India, the Protection of Human Rights Act of 1993[4] establishes the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to protect and promote human rights. While the act does not specifically mention racism, it does provide a comprehensive framework for dealing with various forms of discrimination and injustice. Individuals dealing with racism can use the act to address violations of human rights related to racial discrimination through the NHRC. Specific cases or concerns related to racism can be brought to the forefront by invoking the provisions of this act, providing a legal avenue for addressing and combating such violations within the broader scope of human rights protection.
5. Impact of racism
In India, racism affects social interactions, opportunities, and cultural norms in a number of domains. In the field of education, underprivileged groups frequently struggle to overcome discriminatory practices in educational institutions as well as to obtain high-quality education. This makes it more difficult for them to escape the cycle of poverty and move up the social ladder. Furthermore, racism has an impact on the healthcare system, as some communities may experience prejudices that lower the standard of care they receive. This leads to unequal health outcomes and exacerbates health inequities.
Discrimination in the labor force hampers the professional development of individuals from marginalized backgrounds in the economic sector. Uneven access to jobs and salary disparities remain, impeding the overall economic development of afflicted communities. Furthermore, the impact of racism is visible in urban planning and housing regulations, frequently leading to division and unequal resource allocation, which perpetuates social inequalities
Racism has a cultural impact on the narrative of national identity. Fair skin is promoted as a beauty standard in advertising and media, affecting society perceptions and perpetuating discriminatory attitudes. This not only promotes damaging preconceptions, but it also has an impact on perceptions of attractiveness and success. Racism has also had an impact on language and dialects, with certain linguistic differences condemned and leading to social stratification.
Racism can have an impact on international relations and diplomatic efforts beyond the borders of the country. The notion of a country dealing with internal prejudice can have an impact on its worldwide status, impacting relationships and cooperation. Efforts to reduce the impact of racism in India require a multidimensional approach that includes legislation changes, awareness campaigns, and community-driven activities to create a more inclusive and just society.
Citation
1) The Constitution of India, arts. 14,15,16,17,21,46, 51(a) (e) , 243.
2) The Caste Disabilities Removal Act, 1850 ( Act 21 of 1850).
3) The Civil Rights Act, 1955(Act 22 of 1955).
4) The Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 (Act 10 of 1994).
