Backward Classes and Social Justice

Book Details:

• Author: M.H. Makwana

• Editor (Contributor): Richard Pais

• Publisher: Rawat Publications

• Language: English

• Edition: 2011

• ISBN: 9788131604526

• Pages: 340

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 8.7 x 5.8 x 0.9 inches

About the Book:
Indian society is marked by deep-rooted social stratification—shaped by caste, creed, colour, region, and social origin. Among these, caste stands out as a distinct and deeply entrenched form of social hierarchy. It not only influences social interactions but also permeates economic, religious, and political life. As a result, large sections of society, particularly the backward classes, have historically been denied access to social justice.

Although the Constitution of India does not explicitly define the term "backward classes," successive governments have attempted to address this inequity through affirmative action, particularly the reservation policy. This book is an academic and policy-oriented response to that social landscape.

Divided into four key sections, the volume begins with an introductory essay and a detailed profile of Prof. C. Paravathamma, a renowned scholar in this field. The second part focuses on the theme "Backward Classes and Social Justice", followed by a third section on "Dalits and Development." The final section explores regional case studies on the issues faced by Dalits in various parts of India.

This book is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, social workers, and anyone interested in understanding the sociopolitical dynamics of caste-based inequality and the pursuit of justice in contemporary India.

About the Author / Editor:
M.H. Makwana is Professor and Head of the Department of Sociology at Gujarat University, Ahmedabad. He holds degrees from M.S. University, Baroda, and Gujarat Vidyapith, and currently serves as Chair Professor of the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Chair. With nine books and over 40 academic articles to his credit, he has also served as Convener of RC-09 (Dalits and Backward Classes) of the Indian Sociological Society.

Richard Pais is Professor and Head of the Department of Sociology at St. Aloysius College, Mangalore. Holding postgraduate degrees in both Sociology and Psychology from the University of Poona, and a Ph.D. from Mangalore University, he has authored and edited over 15 books. In 2007, he received the prestigious L.P. Vidyarthi Award for his contributions to the social sciences in India. He currently serves as the Convener of RC-09 (Dalits and Backward Classes) of the Indian Sociological Society.