What is meant by the "secularisation of caste"?

The correct answer is - The shift of caste from a religious framework to a political and social role

Key Points

• Secularisation of Caste
  • Originally, caste in India was deeply tied to religion, with beliefs in purity and pollution shaping social hierarchies.
  • Over time, caste has transitioned from a religious institution to a political and social force.
  • Today, caste operates as a pressure group, influencing policies, elections, and social movements.
  • Many caste-based associations and political parties have emerged, advocating for reservation policies and economic benefits.

Additional Information

• Traditional Role of Caste
  • Caste was historically linked to varna system and religious duties.
  • Social mobility was restricted due to hereditary occupation and endogamy.
• Modern Role of Caste
  • Caste functions as a political identity in contemporary India.
  • Caste-based political parties like the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and Dravidian parties have gained prominence.
  • Reservation policies provide affirmative action for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC).
• Impact of Secularisation of Caste
  • Decline in ritualistic caste practices but persistence of caste in social and economic spheres.
  • Shift from hierarchical caste system to a more competitive political structure.
  • Increased focus on economic and political empowerment of different caste groups.