How has the caste system changed in India and Pakistan
The caste system in India and Pakistan has undergone certain changes, but it continues to exist in a modified form. Here are some significant changes in the caste system:
1. Legal abolition: In both India and Pakistan, the caste system was officially abolished by law. In India, this happened with the enactment of the Constitution in 1950, which declared untouchability to be illegal and provided affirmative action measures for lower castes. Pakistan's Constitution also abolished untouchability and made discrimination on caste grounds illegal.
2. Reservation policies: Affirmative action policies have been implemented in both countries to uplift the lower castes and provide them with opportunities. In India, the reservation system was introduced, which reserves a certain percentage of seats in educational institutions, government jobs, and legislatures for lower castes. In Pakistan, the Sindh Scheduled Castes (Removal of Disablities) Act 2016 grants various rights and protection to scheduled castes and their members.
3. Inter-caste marriages: Over the years, inter-caste marriages have become more acceptable and prevalent, leading to a blurring of caste boundaries. Previously, inter-caste marriages were strongly discouraged or even prohibited, but changing social attitudes have resulted in increasing acceptance.
4. Urbanization and education: Urbanization and modern education have had an impact on the caste system. In urban areas, where people are exposed to diverse cultures and ideas, caste-based prejudices have diminished. Education has also played a role in breaking down caste barriers as it provides access to employment and opportunities for social mobility.
5. Social and political movements: Various social and political movements have challenged the discriminatory aspects of the caste system. Organizations like the Dalit Panthers in India and scheduled caste political parties in both India and Pakistan have voiced the concerns and grievances of lower castes, leading to greater awareness and activism against caste-based discrimination.
Despite these changes, the caste system still exists and continues to influence social interactions, marriage choices, and opportunities in both countries. Discrimination and societal biases against lower castes persist, although efforts have been made to reduce caste-based inequality through legal and social measures.