Ambedkar's Philosophy of Social Justice and Inclusive Democracy: A Critical Analysis of Caste, Equality and Constitutionalism in Contemporary India

DOI- https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22022752

Abstract

Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s political and social philosophy occupies a central position in the intellectual history of modern India. His conception of social justice was not limited to the removal of legal discrimination; it sought a fundamental transformation of social relations based on liberty, equality and fraternity. Ambedkar understood caste as a deeply entrenched system of graded inequality that restricted individual freedom, denied social mobility and weakened the foundations of democracy. Consequently, his idea of democracy extended beyond elections and representative institutions to encompass social and economic democracy. The Constitution of India reflects several of these principles through Fundamental Rights, abolition of untouchability, equality before law, affirmative action, political representation and Directive Principles of State Policy. The Constitution itself remains the principal legal framework through which the values associated with social justice are pursued. This paper critically examines Ambedkar’s philosophy of social justice and inclusive democracy with particular reference to caste, equality and constitutionalism. It argues that Ambedkar’s constitutional vision remains highly relevant in contemporary India because formal political equality does not automatically eliminate social and economic inequalities. The paper further examines the continuing significance of affirmative action, dignity, representation, constitutional morality and fraternity. It concludes that the meaningful realization of Ambedkar’s democratic vision requires not merely constitutional guarantees but their effective implementation through institutions, education, social reform and participatory citizenship.

Keywords: B. R. Ambedkar, Social Justice, Inclusive Democracy, Caste, Equality, Constitutionalism, Constitutional Morality, Fraternity, Affirmative Action.