1. Caste and Politics: Introduction
The Central Role of Caste in Indian Politics
DefinitionCaste plays a crucial role in Indian politics. It influences electoral dynamics, political alliances, and policymaking. Caste-based politics emerged as a response to the social and economic disparities. Political parties have recognized the importance of caste-based mobilization to secure electoral support and address the concerns of specific castes.
Key Statement:
It is said that 'Indians do not cast their vote, they vote their caste.'
Jaffrelot's Formulation:
According to Christophe Jaffrelot, caste forms the mosaic of Indian politics. Mandal and Kamandal are the two idioms of Indian politics. Caste does not differ from religion and both are examples of identity politics.
Central Themes:
- Caste as a sociological phenomenon — Dumont vs Srinivas
- Caste in Indian politics — history, after independence
- Politicization of caste — Rajni Kothari
- Caste as strengthening vs weakening force
- OBC politics — Jaffrelot's Silent Revolution
- Dalit politics — three choices, Pratap Bhanu Mehta
Key pointCaste-based alliances and coalition politics have become common — parties form strategic partnerships to consolidate caste-based voting blocks.
"Indians do not cast their vote, they vote their caste."
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Free. All OPSC Sociology Paper I and Paper II notes, with mains PYQs.
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In these notes
- Caste and Politics: Introduction
- Sociological Explanation of Caste
- Why Caste Plays a Role in Politics
- History of Caste Politics in India
- After Independence: Mandalization of Indian Politics
- Rajni Kothari: Politicization of Caste
- Caste as a Weakening Force
- OBC Politics in India
- Dalit Politics in India: Three Choices
- Pratap Bhanu Mehta: Analysis of Dalit Politics
- Caste and Politics: Summary and Model Answer