Garima LekhwaniAIR 136 · CSE 2016 · 218 wordsTheir whole copy
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Dumont's assertion of caste system as a static, hierarchical system has been consistently challenged through various avenues of social mobility - from sanskritization (Srinivas) to secularization (Y. Singh).
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Backward class movements among lower castes that emerged during colonial rule in the form of Satya Shodhak Samaj movement, Self Respect Movement, SNDP movement, etc were based on rejection of brahminic domination and attempt to rise in secular hierarchy (Omvedt, Gould). These movements have accelerated the process of social mobility among lower castes by denting the supremacy of upper castes and emphasis on an egalitarian social order. These movements led to constitutional recognition of affirmative action which in the form of reservations has led to economic empowerment of lower castes.
Moreover, the rise of Dalit Panther Party, and BSP/SP post-Yadav movement has led to political mobilisation of Dalits & lower castes thus witnessing social mobility in the caste system.
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The backward caste movements also led to introduction of land reforms, agrarian revolution that has altered the caste-class nexus and increased Dalits' access to land and modes of production. Even in the cultural sphere, these movements have led to an overall rise in their social status & dignity, such as delinking caste from occupations like manual scavenging, etc, opening of temple entry, secular literature & art and overall secularization of society.