Backward Class Movement

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OPSC OAS Sociology Paper II, Unit 2: Caste System. 13-section notes on Backward Class Movement.

1. Backward Class Movement: Introduction and Constitutional Basis

Constitutional Provisions and the Term 'Class' vs 'Caste'

DefinitionThe Constitution of India provides positive discrimination for Other Backward Classes along with Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. It should also be noted that the word 'class' and not 'caste' is used in the Constitution. Historically there are large numbers of castes that were of low status and were also subjected to varying levels of discrimination just short of untouchability — these were generally the service and artisan castes or the so-called Shudras who occupy the lowest ranks of the caste hierarchy.

Key Facts:
- The term 'backward communities' was used for the first time in official parlance by the state of Travancore in the 1930s to include all educationally and economically backward sections.
- Madras province used it in the 1930s to refer to the castes which are just above Untouchables.
- Backward classes became a significant social and political force in some parts of the country especially South India even earlier.
- They got national attention following the introduction of the Mandal Commission report by the V.P. Singh-led government at the centre in 1990.
Constitutional Provisions:
- Article 340: President may appoint a Commission to investigate the conditions of socially and educationally backward classes.
- Article 15(4): Special provisions for advancement of backward classes.
- Article 16(4): Reservation in appointments for backward class of citizens.
- Article 46 (DPSP): Promotion of educational and economic interests of weaker sections.

Key pointThe word 'class' and not 'caste' is used in the Constitution — but in practice, backward classes are generally identified by caste.

Remember340-15(4)-16(4)-46 — Constitutional quartet for OBCs

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In these notes

Backward Class Movement: Introduction and Constitutional Basis
Who are the Backward Classes?
MSA Rao's Typology of Backward Class Movements
Classification of Backward Class Movements
Northern vs Southern Backward Class Movements: Key Differences
Self-Respect Movement (1925)
SNDP Movement (Shri Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam)
Justice Party Movement (1916)
Satyashodhak Samaj (1873)
Backward Class Movements in North India
Kaka Kalelkar Commission and Mandal Commission
Post-Mandal Developments and Contemporary Relevance
Conclusion: Backward Class Movement — Summary and Significance

Sourced from the Odisha Public Service Commission where applicable. opsc.gov.in. EduSaint is not affiliated with OPSC.

Backward Class Movement

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1. Backward Class Movement: Introduction and Constitutional Basis

Constitutional Provisions and the Term 'Class' vs 'Caste'