Nelaturu Sreekanth ReddyAIR 151 · CSE 2024 · 337 wordsTheir whole copy
Opening · a definition
According to M.N. Srinivas Caste is the building block of Indian society.
According to Pitrim Sorokin mobility refers to change in position/status of an individual/group in social hierarchy.
Body · points
Inter-Caste struggle for mobility
→ M.N. Srinivas concept of Sanskritisation can create inter-caste struggle as at times upper class don't allow lower castes to practice the way of life of upper castes.
Ex: In many places Brahmins fought against the use of sacred threads by lower castes.
→ With respect to caste mobility in politics often caste groups get into violence activities.
Ex: Dalit leaders were killed in Madurai district as a warning not to contest in local body elections.
→ Even in terms of ritual hierarchy and ritual mobility, caste conflicts are arising.
Ex: Conflicts over non-brahmin castes appointment of temple priests.
→ Conflicts over secular hierarchy can also be seen among caste groups.
Ex: Factionism between caste groups in Rayalseema region of Andhra.
→ With respect to horizontal social mobility, tensions are taking place over the utilisation of local resources.
Ex: Maratha Caste Vs Non Marathas in Maharastra.
→ Caste based riots can also be seen to strenghten the caste-hierarchy whenever it is challenged by lower castes.
Ex: Karamchedu Massacre of Dalits by Kamma caste.
Sociological perspective
→ Marxists view that conflict is the basis for social change in any society.
→ Village studies by M.N. Srinivas, Andre Beteille, S.C. Dube talks about the caste conflicts for social mobility both in secular and ritual hierarchies of Indian society.
→ Rejni Kothari talks about competition of castes to gain political power.
Critical perspective
→ Caste is slowly replaced by class in struggle of social mobility.
→ In urban settings role of caste reduced in gaining economic mobility.
→ Reservations lead to inter and intra generational mobilities of lower caste without any caste struggle.
→ Ritual hierarchy is losing its traditional significance due to secular values.
Close · a summary
Despite legal and constitutional provisions the inter-caste mobility at the ground reality is guided by various factors such as economic, political, numerical strength.