Reclaiming The Commons: An Ambedkarite Perspective On Environmental Politics Of India

Abstract

Within the sphere of environmental politics, the Ambedkarite perspective necessitates a consideration of the intertwined relationships linking social justice, ecological sustainability, and the present-day Indian political climate. B.R. Ambedkar's philosophical stance highlights the importance of tackling systemic inequalities – most notably those deeply embedded within the caste system – as a vehicle for promoting environmental justice. As evidenced by various critiques of social movements, there exists a distinct requirement for organisations to challenge prevailing caste and gender-based hierarchies; a move which should consequently reshape the narratives around environmental activism (Verma et al., 2010). NGOs operating within India are also positioned to undertake a crucial function within this transition, by way of nurturing inclusive leadership models reflective of Ambedkar's core principles, which will inevitably result in tangible impacts across both societal and environmental spheres (Chaitanya et al., 2021). Indeed, this theoretical framework offers a powerful lens via which we can begin to comprehend the nuanced complexities found at the intersection of identity and ecological custodianship, thus rendering it indispensable for the revitalisation of environmental politics throughout India.

Ambedkarite philosophy, at its heart, is deeply rooted in the pursuit of social justice, equality, and a fundamental reshaping of societal structures that sustain discrimination based on caste. Ambedkar, with a vision of an inclusive and just society, contended that abolishing caste necessitated a deep-seated religious and cultural upheaval, evolving Hinduism towards a more egalitarian structure – with Buddhism presented as the road towards collective liberation. As previously mentioned, Ambedkarism represents the teachings, ideology or philosophy of B.R. Ambedkar, stressing the necessity for a democratic and ethical socio-political order that dismantles deeply ingrained hierarchies. This approach finds echoes in current discussions concerning environmental politics, where an equitable distribution of resources proves essential in tackling ecological decline. Interestingly, an analysis of NGOs operating in Andhra Pradesh illustrates how social hierarchies face challenges, bolstering Ambedkar’s principles of equality within socio-environmental activism (Chaitanya et al., 2021). There are several instances that also demonstrates the active engagement of marginalised communities in movements striving for environmental justice, thereby illustrating the practical consequences of Ambedkar’s philosophy.