How has the caste system changed in India and Pakistan?
It faded from existence as societies became less religious.
Caste-based discrimination has been outlawed.
Women can now belong to the highest castes.
There are now only three castes instead of five.
The caste system in India and Pakistan has not entirely disappeared, but it has changed in several ways. While societies have become less religious, the caste system still has a significant impact on social hierarchy and relationships. However, caste-based discrimination has been outlawed in both countries, and there are strict laws against caste-based discrimination and violence.
Moreover, women can now belong to higher castes and have more opportunities to access education and employment. Additionally, there is a greater recognition of the rights and dignity of individuals regardless of their caste, and efforts are being made to promote equality and social justice.
In terms of classification, some sources suggest that there are now only three broad categories of castes in India - Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes. This simplification of the caste system has been accompanied by affirmative action policies to provide opportunities for marginalized communities to access education and jobs.
Overall, while the caste system may still persist in some forms, there have been significant changes towards equality and social justice in both India and Pakistan.