Examine the political and social ramifications of movements based on caste in India after gaining independence. Evaluate whether the persistence of the caste system has eroded the social cohesion of the country. Critically analyse. (10 marks, 150 words)(GS-1 History)

Introduction:

• Caste-based movements in post-independence India embody a social revolution, striving for a transformation in the traditional hierarchical structure of Indian society. These movements are grounded in democratic ideals of liberty, equality, and social justice.

Social Effects of Caste-based Movements in India:

• The post-independence Constitution identified former Untouchables as “scheduled castes,” aiming to provide them with government assistance and consideration.
• The Constituent Assembly drafted the Constitution on the principles of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity, with the goal of creating an egalitarian society, denouncing discrimination in all forms.
• Fundamental rights in the Constitution sought to abolish untouchability and discrimination based on caste, race, gender, and place of birth.
• Affirmative action policies, legal reforms, and social movements led to extensive economic and social rights for disadvantaged sections, including job and education reservations.
• Modernity, urbanization, and economic growth have significantly altered the caste system, with changing occupational hierarchies and increased inter-caste marriages.
• Positive discrimination policies, like reservations, have redefined the status of Dalit community members in organizations.
• The younger generation, born after 1990, reflects changed thinking and social behavior.

Political Effects of Caste-based Movements in India:

• Unexpectedly, economically well-off castes, such as Gujjars, Jats, Marathas, Patidars, and Lingayats, have engaged in violent agitations demanding reservations in jobs and education.
• Affirmative action designed for socioeconomic parity has, in some cases, become a tool for power acquisition.
• Caste identity serves as a primary channel for mobilizing electoral and political support, encouraging political parties to appeal directly to specific caste communities.
• Caste facilitates political participation for illiterate and ignorant individuals in the democratic process.

Positives of Caste System:

• In the past, the caste system preserved cultural knowledge and skills, passing down hereditary occupations from one generation to another.
• It played a role in socialization by imparting cultural values and norms, contributing to the preservation of culture.

Negatives of Caste System:

• Acts as a hindrance to economic and intellectual advancement, limiting opportunities to a specific section of the population.
• Impedes labor mobility, capital, and productive effort, undermining overall efficiency.
• Perpetuates the exploitation of economically weaker and socially inferior castes, especially the untouchables.
• Inflicts hardships on women through practices like child marriage and prohibition of widow remarriage.
• Hinders national and collective consciousness, acting as a disintegrating rather than an integrating factor.

Conclusion:

• It is imperative for Indian society to transcend caste hierarchies and eliminate all forms of discrimination, visible or invisible. The future of India as a vibrant democracy and emerging economic power hinges on embracing equality, fraternity, and harmony.