The Research Dialogue

Author: Rahul

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64880/theresearchdialogue.v5i1.06

Abstract

                   The question of caste remains a thought-provoking subject for scholars of Indian political, legal, and social history even today. The origin of the caste system, caste-based discrimination, the efforts made to eliminate it, and the struggle culminating in the Indian Constitution’s proclamation of equality have been significant endeavours in this direction. However, over time, the movement for caste equality took on an aggressive character. Historical exploitation began to be used as a tool to secure privileges. Political parties converted caste into an instrument of caste-based polarisation to gain power. Factionalism based on caste emerged as a means to obtain caste-based benefits, which further entrenched casteism and caste identity. This research study examines the origin of the caste system, its historical dimensions, various reform movements, constitutional aspects, and the multiple facets of self-interest in obtaining privileges through caste mobilisation and the misuse of legal provisions created to eliminate exploitation.

Keywords: Caste, Varna, Satyashodhak Samaj, Arya Samaj, Mandal Commission, Reservation

Cite this Article: 

Rahul, “The Changing Face of Caste in India: Reform, Struggle and the Politics of Power an Analytical Study” The Research Dialogue, Open Access Peer-reviewed & Refereed Journal, Pp.37–43,Volume-05, Issue-01, April-2026, https://theresearchdialogue.com/