Class Inequality in India: A Deep-Rooted Issue

Class inequality in India comes from thousands of years ago. It is a deeply embedded and multifaceted social phenomenon that touches all facets of life. This inequality is reflected in the traditional caste system, which segregates Indian society into hierarchical social classes with prescribed rights and duties.

Historical Deep Roots and Religious and Societal Background

The caste system is thousands of years old, dividing society into four main categories, or castes: Brahmins (priests), Kshatriyas (warriors), Vaishyas (merchants), and Shudras (laborers). People are born into a caste — and remain there for life — which is a barrier to social and economic mobility. You've got the so-called "untouchables," or "Dalits," who live outside the caste system and experience extreme discrimination.

British colonialism acted to reinforce class inequality, á la the caste system, to divide and control society. The British treated the lower levels of society as less than humans and refused to give them any access to education or jobs.

Economic and Social Inequality

India has seen significant economic development recently, but a great deal of inequality exists when it comes to the distribution of wealth. While the upper classes in control retain the vast majority of wealth, the lower classes suffer from extreme poverty as a result of this system and live on the streets in places where they are denied access to basic services.

Long-Standing Customs and Traditions

Long-standing customs and traditions support class inequality, where beliefs in the caste system are taught through generations. Discrimination and prejudice indicate that lower classes have little or no place in society.

The Disastrous Results of Class Inequality

1- Extreme Poverty: The lowest classes do not even have food, clean water, shelter, or a doctor, which increases health and social problems.

2- Discrimination and Persecution: Members of lower castes face discrimination, especially Dalits, in education, employment, and housing. They are subjected to violence and lack basic rights.

3- Differences in Education and Jobs: The upper classes enjoy better opportunities, and lower classes are limited in advancement opportunities.

4-Social Tensions: Frustration and anger among lower classes lead to protest and social unrest.

Islam's View about Class Inequality

According to the book “Encyclopedia of the Beauties of Islam” and Response to the Doubts of the Insane,” Islam provides such fundamental principles that can eradicate the class inequality in India:

• Social Justice: Islam promotes social justice and equality among people.
• Almsgiving and the Alleviation of Poverty: Almsgiving (Zakat) is one of the five pillars of Islam, so this book emphasizes the charitable component as a means to reduce income gaps and alleviate poverty.
• Islamic Rejection of Discrimination: Islam within Quranic verses and other hadiths rejects racial and class discrimination within inline chapters, promoting equality and justice between individuals.
• Consequence Islamic: Sharing of wealth with the poor and needy, helping.
• Fighting Class Inequality: These Islamic approaches can instigate a fight against class inequality in India through:
• Enacting and enforcing laws to combat discrimination and ensure equal opportunities for education and employment.
• Economic Empowerment — Giving lower classes jobs, aiding small businesses, and increasing access to financial services.
• Advocacy: Supporting policies and movements that work to bridge the gap between different economic classes. Delivering quality education for everyone
• Mindset Shift: Embedding a culture of respect and tolerance that counters the ideals that underpin the caste.

Ultimately, combating class inequality in India demands collaborative action from the government, civil society, and individuals alike. Applying Islamic principles and values is the way forward for India to attain a just and equal society.