Social justice in Neoliberal India: Relevance of Ambedkar's vision

Ambedkar believed that social justice meant giving equal opportunity to each and every person in every sphere of life to develop ones total personality. He gave a broader definition of social justice which included not just social but also political and economic aspects. In his vision of social justice state plays an important role. While drafting the constitution he made it sure that state would not only ensure but also promote social justice. There is no doubt that state did play an active role in ensuring social justice. However the scenario changed after the end of cold war. It is almost a quarter of a century since India adopted neoliberal viewpoint of economy which had deep impact on the political system as well. State is no longer as active as it was before adopting this neoliberal policy. State has now assumed the position of a facilitator. Private players and multinational companies are playing prominent role in the system. How does this affect the cause of social justice? What is the relevance of Ambedkar's vision of social justice in this neoliberal scenario? This paper seeks to examine these questions.