Question

How can caste take various forms in politics? Explain with examples. 

Answer 1

Casteism is based on the idea that a person’s caste is determined by birth. It forms the primary basis of social grouping and can appear in different ways in politics.

Political parties in India often focus on caste-based feelings to gain electoral support. Generally, most political parties align themselves with the interests of certain castes and are viewed as their representatives.

• While campaigning, political leaders try to secure backing from their own caste community.

• Parties also select their candidates after considering the caste makeup of the voters. In this way, they nominate candidates from different castes to attract support and win elections.

• The Universal Adult Franchise is significantly influenced by caste. People’s sense of belonging to their caste shapes how they vote.

• The principle of one person, one vote has pushed political leaders to actively seek caste-based political support.

• In many regions, people vote along caste lines, which often results in unsuitable candidates being elected.