Here is the class notes from Class 7 NCERT Civics – Chapter 10: Struggles for equality

What is Equality?

• Equality means ensuring everyone has the same rights and opportunities.
• The Indian Constitution guarantees equality before law, equal protection of laws, no discrimination, and equal access to public places and jobs.

Why Do People Struggle for Equality?

• People face discrimination and inequality based on caste, religion, gender, economic status, etc.
• These inequalities create unfair conditions in society.
• Struggles for equality arise when people raise their voices against injustice and demand equal treatment.

Key Examples of Struggles for Equality

a. Tawa Matsya Sangh (TMS) – Madhya Pradesh

• Context: People dependent on the Tawa river for fishing lost their rights after the Tawa Dam was built.
• Struggle: Local fish workers formed a union, TMS, to demand their fishing rights.
• Outcome: They won the right to fish in the Tawa reservoir and improved their livelihoods.

b. Dalit Movements

• Dalits have faced centuries of discrimination.
• Movements like Dalit Panthers raised awareness and fought for dignity and equality.
• Demanded end of untouchability, access to education, jobs, and public spaces.

c. Women’s Movements

• Women have fought for equal wages, education, and freedom from discrimination.
• These movements helped bring laws for protection against domestic violence, equal pay, and workplace rights.

Role of the Government

• The government passes laws to protect equality (e.g., Minimum Wages Act, Right to Education Act).
• It creates schemes and policies for disadvantaged groups (e.g., reservations in education/jobs).

Importance of People’s Participation

• Active citizenship is key to a democratic society.
• When people organize and demand change, real equality becomes possible.