Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Indian Constitution, while abolishing untouchability (Article 17), did not outlaw caste itself. Caste, historically a hierarchical social stratification system rooted in the varna and jati system, continues to exert a significant influence on contemporary Indian politics. The Mandal Commission (1980) report and its subsequent implementation dramatically highlighted the political salience of caste. While often viewed as a relic of the past, caste continues to shape electoral strategies, policy formulations, and social identities, demanding a critical assessment of its ongoing relevance.
Historical Context and Evolution
Historically, caste dictated occupation, social interaction, and access to resources. The colonial period further solidified caste identities through census operations and administrative practices. Post-independence, affirmative action policies (reservations) aimed to address historical injustices and provide opportunities to marginalized caste groups. However, these policies inadvertently reinforced caste consciousness, making it a potent political tool.
Caste and Electoral Politics
Caste plays a significant role in electoral calculations. Political parties often mobilize voters along caste lines, forming alliances and tailoring manifestos to appeal to specific caste groups. The phenomenon of "caste-based voting" remains prevalent, particularly in state elections. For example, in Uttar Pradesh, the Yadav, Jat, and Brahmin communities wield considerable electoral influence.
Reservation Policies and Political Mobilization
The implementation of reservation policies in education and government jobs has led to increased political mobilization among historically disadvantaged castes. The Other Backward Classes (OBCs) constitute a substantial portion of the electorate and their political participation has significantly altered the political landscape. The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) was established in 2018 to safeguard the rights and promote the economic welfare of OBCs.
Positive and Negative Aspects
- Positive: Affirmative action has provided opportunities for social mobility and representation for marginalized communities.
- Negative: Caste-based politics can exacerbate social divisions, hinder meritocracy, and perpetuate discrimination. It can also lead to identity-based fragmentation and hinder national unity.
Contemporary Trends and Challenges
While caste-based discrimination is illegal under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, and the Prohibition of Unsafe Scientific Experiments (Human Cloning and Other Prohibited Practices) Act, 2002, its manifestations persist in various forms, including social exclusion, economic disparities, and violence. The rise of identity politics and the increasing polarization of society further complicate the issue.
Case Study: The Rohith Vemula Incident
The tragic suicide of Rohith Vemula, a Dalit research scholar at Hyderabad University in 2016, brought the issue of caste discrimination in educational institutions to the forefront. The incident sparked widespread protests and highlighted the systemic challenges faced by Dalit students and scholars. It underscored the ongoing need to address caste-based prejudice and inequality in educational spaces.
Changing Dynamics
While caste remains relevant, its influence is gradually being diluted by factors such as urbanization, education, and inter-caste marriages. However, these changes are not uniform across the country, and caste continues to be a powerful force in many regions.
| Policy/Act | Year | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Mandal Commission Report | 1980 | Recommended reservation for OBCs in government jobs. |
| Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act | 1989 | Prohibits discrimination and violence against SC/ST communities. |
Conclusion
Caste's relevance in contemporary Indian politics remains complex and multifaceted. While affirmative action has facilitated some degree of social mobility, caste-based politics continues to pose challenges to equitable development and social harmony. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach, including promoting education, fostering inter-caste dialogue, and strengthening legal frameworks to combat discrimination. Ultimately, a truly equitable society necessitates a gradual decline in the significance of caste as a determinant of social and political outcomes.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.