We the People of Indiaa.

Abstract

The Preamble of the Constitution of India proudly began with the words, "We the people of India…". Nevertheless, this phrase 'we the people' has layers to it. In a classified, divided, hierarchical society this phrase has lost its luster because even today this country is divided and fragmented on the basis of gender, caste, class, economic status, religion, literacy, social background and rural-urban divide. The gap between 'haves' and 'have-nots' has been widening. The unequal distribution of resources, assets and wealth in a free market economy is creating a segregated society where those who work hard are deprived and denied of the benefits of their hard labour and are being exploited while those who are powerful are looting and scooting the fruits of growth and progress. What is prevailing is injustice – social, economic and political. Those subalterns at the 'lower end of pyramid' are being deprived of their constitutional and legal entitlements, denied of their rights as citizens and are being dispossessed of their dignity as human beings in their daily lives. The freedom of expressions and thoughts is being denied and what prevails is inequality in income, opportunities and dignity. Instead of harmony and unity, what is professed is disunity on the basis of social and economic background. Market fundamentalism and capture of power by economically elite sections of society is breeding inequality and impeding the way towards an equal world.