Question

Describe the rise of Other Backward Classes as a political force in Indian politics.

Answer 1

The rise of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) as a political force in India became prominent after independence, especially from the 1980s onwards.

1. In the 1990s, the support for the Indian National Congress declined among sections of the OBCs. This created space for non-Congress parties to gain support from these communities.
2. These parties first gained national political expression during the Janata Party government, as many constituents of the Janata Dal had a strong rural base among OBCs.
3. The decision of the National Front government to implement the Mandal Commission recommendations further strengthened OBC politics and increased their political awareness and identity.