The Endurance of Caste in Modern India: A Sociological Analysis
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: Indian Society (Caste system, Social issues), Current Events.
Mains:
GS Paper 1: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India; Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism; Role of women and women’s organization; Effects of globalization on Indian society.
GS Paper 2: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population and the performance of these schemes.
GS Paper 4 (Ethics): Role of family, society and educational institutions in inculcating values.
Key Highlights from the News
Main Argument: Caste in India is not merely a personal issue but a social phenomenon perpetuated and transmitted across generations through the family unit, which serves as a social structure.
Paradox of 'Honour' Killings:
Inter-caste marriages pose a direct challenge to the caste system.
'Honour' killings are observed more frequently not in places where the caste system is strongest, but where it is most threatened.
States like Tamil Nadu and Kerala, where Dalit empowerment has occurred, see a higher incidence of inter-caste marriages and related violence. This indicates a "hierarchy under siege."
Example from Tamil Nadu: Despite a strong public awareness against caste in Tamil Nadu, there is a paradox where caste pride is openly expressed on a personal level and on social media, and 'honour' killings are justified.
Potential for Change:
The significance of the traditional family unit is diminishing among the younger generation in urban areas.
They prioritize personal growth and autonomy.
The article suggests that as the family, which is the primary mechanism for sustaining caste, weakens, the influence of caste is also likely to decrease.
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