Question 1(a) · 10 marks · 148 words written
Opening · a definition
The politicization of caste refers to the use of caste for political mobilization, use of caste identities to assert in the political sphere. → Brahman samellane during UP Assembly Elections.
Body · points and prose
Politicization of caste deepening democracy
(1) Enabled the ritually lower castes to assert their identities using secular politics. → Bhim Army asserting Dalit rights.
(2) Rajni Kothari says that castes used politics to claim social mobility by gaining political power. Ex: Jats in Haryana
(3) caste-based pressure groups have drawn attention towards caste athorities. Ex: BSP party and associated pressure groups have raised voice against violence
(4) Challenged traditional "cumulative inequalities", as Andre Beteille argues to give power to backward castes benefitting from land reforms.
(3) Gail Omvedt argues that Dalits continued to remain 'second class - citizens' despite democracy.
Close · a summary
Thus, caste in politics have played dual role of asserting caste and using it to divert attention.