Chapter 8: Law and Social Justice
Introduction
Role of Government in Markets: Laws protect workers, consumers, and producers from unfair practices in markets.
Minimum Wages Act: Ensures fair wages by setting a minimum pay that employers must meet.
Important Laws for Social Justice
2.1 Workers' Rights
Safety Measures: Laws mandate safety in workplaces to protect workers.
Child Labour Laws: The Child Labour Act prohibits the employment of children under 14 in hazardous jobs and sets penalties for violations.
2.2 Consumer Protection
Quality Standards: Regulations require certain quality standards for consumer goods to prevent health and safety risks.
Price Control: Laws control the price of essential goods to keep them affordable.
2.3 Environmental Protection
Pollution Control: Factories are required to minimize pollution and protect the environment.
Enforcement of Laws
Challenges in Enforcement: Employers often violate laws, exploiting workers’ vulnerabilities. Proper enforcement by the government is essential to ensure compliance.
Case Study: Bhopal Gas Tragedy
Background: The 1984 gas leak from Union Carbide's Bhopal plant caused thousands of deaths and long-term health issues due to negligence in safety.
Government Response: Although the government filed for compensation, the settlement was much lower than demanded. Victims continue to seek justice and healthcare.
Impact on Laws: Led to stricter environmental laws and raised awareness of industrial safety.
Environment as a Public Facility
Environmental Laws: Post-Bhopal, new laws were introduced to hold companies accountable for environmental damage, affirming clean air and water as part of the Right to Life.
Court Judgments: Rulings have upheld the right to a healthy environment under Article 21 of the Constitution.
Issues in Balancing Development and Justice
6.1 Displacement Due to Environmental Laws
Factory Relocation: Shifting factories out of urban areas to reduce pollution has led to job losses and hardships for workers.
6.2 Middle-Class Environmentalism vs. Poorer Communities
Equity in Clean Environment: While environmental awareness has grown, measures often disproportionately impact the poor, who depend on informal jobs in polluting industries.
Conclusion
Need for Stronger Laws: Effective law enforcement and public pressure are essential to ensure fair practices in markets, workers' rights, and environmental protection.
Constitution as a Living Document: Continuous legal interpretation has expanded the Right to Life to include a clean environment, health, and safe working conditions.
Activities and Discussion Questions
Questions: Topics on law enforcement, worker exploitation, environmental justice, and the Bhopal tragedy’s legacy.
Research: Activities include interviewing workers, exploring local environmental issues, and understanding the impact of relocated industries on workers.
