The Caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms. Hence, the caste system cannot be eradicated in India.” Comment.
The Caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms. Hence, the caste system cannot be eradicated in India.” Comment.
The caste system, despite decades of constitutional prohibition and social reform, continues to adapt and manifest through contemporary structures, challenging efforts for complete eradication while assuming new digital and urban forms.
New Manifestations of Caste System
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Digital Discrimination:
- Matrimonial websites explicitly filter matches by caste categories
- Social media platforms witness caste-based trolling and segregation
- Online professional networks perpetuate caste-based hiring preferences
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Urban Adaptations:
- Residential segregation in housing societies and apartment complexes
- Formation of caste-based professional associations and business networks
- Educational coaching centers catering to specific caste communities
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Political Mobilization:
- Emergence of caste-based political parties and electoral strategies
- Identity politics reinforcing caste consciousness among youth
- Demand for caste census reflecting growing caste-based political assertions
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Economic Manifestations:
- Caste-based business networks controlling market access
- Informal lending systems favoring same-caste entrepreneurs
- Workplace discrimination in promotions and transfers
Evidence Supporting Persistence
| Indicator | 2023-24 Data | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Atrocities Against SCs | 50,291 cases | 12% increase from 2022 |
| Inter-caste Marriage Rate | <5% nationally | Social segregation continues |
| Educational Dropout (SC/ST) | 23% in higher education | Limited social mobility |
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Legal Cases: Recent Supreme Court observations in State of Maharashtra v. Committee of Management (2024) highlighted persistent caste discrimination in educational institutions
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Survey Evidence: CSDS-Lokniti Post-Poll Survey 2024 revealed 68% Indians still consider caste important in marriage decisions
Factors Enabling Transformation
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Constitutional Framework:
- Article 15 prohibits discrimination, yet enforcement remains weak
- Article 17 abolishes untouchability but social practices persist
- SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act 1989 provides legal protection
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Social Initiatives:
- Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam's IGNITE program promoting merit-based advancement
- Civil society movements challenging caste-based discrimination
- Educational reforms under NEP 2020 emphasizing inclusive education
The caste system's resilience lies in its adaptability to modern structures while maintaining exclusionary practices. However, complete eradication remains achievable through sustained legal enforcement, educational reforms, and generational change promoting merit-based social interactions.
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