Dignity of the individual
Topic: Democracy: Forms of Government, Principles and Outcomes · NCERT: Class 10, Ch 5 "Outcomes of Democracy"
Meaning
This is the idea that every person deserves respect and equal treatment, whatever their sex, caste or wealth. Democracy gives this idea both legal and moral force. Groups who were treated as lower can now demand equal status as a right. Class 10 counts it as one of democracy's key outcomes.
Example
In India, untouchability is abolished by Art. 17. The SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act 1989 punishes attacks on Dalits and Adivasis. Atrocities still happen, but they no longer have any legal backing. Women, too, can now go to court against treatment that is legally and morally wrong.
Don't confuse with
- Dignity under Art. 21: courts have read a right to live with dignity into Art. 21, so it is a fundamental right that courts enforce. The Class 10 idea is broader. It is an outcome of democratic life as a whole.