Question 1(a) · 10 marks · 212 words written
Critically examine the efficacy of 'Law as an Instrument of Social Change'.
Opening · a definition
Law is generally understood to be rules and regulation made by the political class, the democratic or otherwise government.
Law can contribute to some extent to the process of social change, however there are limitations to 'Law as a medium of social change'.
Body · points
LAW AS INSTRUMENT OF SOCIAL CHANGE
Laws made by the authority in power can bring in some kind of social change, for example:- the PCPNDT act enacted to stop female foeticide has been largely effective in curbing the practice of killing of female before birth.
Right to Education Act, 2009 has played a
great role in mobilising consensus for universal education. The act also led to universal enrolment of girls into primary education.
Limitations of law as an agent of social change
Law alone cannot drive any major social change. The law has to be supplemented with change in mindsets and attitudes.
In India, despite presence of act like Dowry prohibition Act, dowry deaths have not stopped. Despite decriminalisation of homo-sexuality, social acceptance of LGBTQ community remains unsatisfactory.
Close · a summary
Law can become a medium of legitimising social change as well e.g. Sati Act during British time. However, law has to be supplemented with proper implementation & change in social outlook to be effective in social change.