Caste As A Divisive Factor.pdf

Caste is a divisive factor in India, with the Supreme Court noting that despite guarantees of basic liberties and individual initiative, society remains divided along caste lines. Politicians often politicize caste to attract votes, leading to reservation facilities for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes, which can be seen as infringing on the right to equality for those in the general category. Caste influences political socialization, leadership recruitment, and party politics, with different parties often associated with specific castes. The caste factor is also significant in elections, with parties considering caste when selecting candidates and campaigning. Caste can be both a divisive and cohesive force in Indian politics, providing a basis for interest groups and unity among group members, but also leading to factionalism and unhealthy struggles for power. The exercise of power by political parties is also influenced by caste, with parties often trying to win favor with major caste groups and using decision-making power to further their interests. Additionally, caste plays a role in local government, with caste-based factionalism hindering the effective working of institutions like the Panchayati Raj. The Indian Constitution recognizes the caste system indirectly through provisions for caste-based reservations.