The Struggle Against Caste Hierarchy: A Historical and Ideological Analysis
Introduction In view of the fights going on between the ruling party and the opposition about Caste Sensus certain facts should be considered
The Indian nationalist movements, initially rooted in broader social reforms, gradually sidelined these efforts with the emergence of militant Hindu nationalism. This ideological shift, driven by upper-caste Hindus, equated the nation’s identity with Vedic culture and Aryan supremacy. The concept of the “nation” became intertwined with the caste-based hierarchy of Varna and Varnashram-dharma, thereby marginalizing other Indian cultural traditions. Efforts to rewrite history—denying Aryan migration, downplaying caste discrimination, and blaming such injustices on Mughal and British rulers—highlighted the deliberate neglect of India’s diverse cultural roots. The hidden agenda of the rightwing Hindu organizations to push the inhuman birth-based caste system under the carpet is a shameful act. It is like dressing a child with defecated pampers claiming that the soil marks are noble designs. They should realize that without acknowledging and owning responsibility for the centuries old injustice of birth based caste system India’s Social history will always remain tarnished. The opposition on the other hand should stop using the caste system as a ‘weapon’ against the ruling party. They too have a history of caste discrimination in their own party structure . Birth based caste system is a virus that is eating up the unity of Indians as ‘We The People’ ,elimination of which demands a “cultural revolution” through right education, acceptance of historical facts and nonpartisan approach.
Against this backdrop, it becomes crucial to redefine Indian national culture and explore alternative visions offered by non-Aryan and non-Brahminic leaders. The caste system, central to this debate, divides society into hierarchical groups based on duties (dharma), with Brahmins at the top and untouchables (avarnas) relegated to degrading tasks. Historically, these practices perpetuated untouchability and exclusion, leading to various movements aimed at social justice and equality.
Early Struggles Against Suppression
The struggle against caste oppression began as early as the 6th century BCE during the Buddha’s time. Lord Buddha initiated social reforms to challenge caste-based injustices, forming the Sangam, a movement for oppressed communities. This tradition of resistance continued through history, as seen in medieval Tamil Nadu with figures like Nandanar, who defied caste restrictions to worship in temples. Despite such acts of silent defiance, systemic discrimination persisted, underscoring the need for collective action.
Depressed Class Movements
The 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed a surge in social reform and justice movements across India. Organizations like the Brahma Samaj, Prarthana Samaj, and Arya Samaj in the north, and movements in the south led by the depressed castes, sought to challenge the caste-based order. These movements often encountered fierce resistance from upper-caste groups.
The marginalized communities recognized that self-identification and mobilization were essential for resisting exclusion. Leaders like Jotiba Phule and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar played pivotal roles in fostering education, political representation, and social emancipation. Phule’s Satya Shodhak Samaj (1873) and Ambedkar’s Bahishkrit Hitkarini Sabha (1924) epitomized such efforts, emphasizing the principles of “education, agitation, and organization.”
Ideologies and Pioneers of Reform
During colonial rule, liberal ideas such as individual freedom and equality inspired marginalized groups to challenge Brahminical dominance. Reformist leaders like Phule, Ambedkar, and Sri Narayana Guru articulated ideologies centered on egalitarianism and human dignity. Phule rejected Vedic supremacy and critiqued the caste system as a construct of Brahmanical oppression. Similarly, Ambedkar advocated for education and political activism to dismantle systemic barriers. His turn to Buddhism underscored his belief in rejecting Hinduism as a tool of caste-based exploitation.
Leaders like Sri Narayana Guru and Ayyankali in Kerala also spearheaded transformative movements. Guru’s emphasis on monotheism and equality, coupled with practical reforms like establishing schools and wells for untouchables, challenged caste-based exclusions. Ayyankali’s activism focused on education, labor rights, and political representation, further empowering marginalized communities.
Movements in Tamil Nadu
In Tamil Nadu, movements led by figures like Ayothidas and E.V. Ramasamy Naicker (Periyar) advanced the anti-caste discourse. Ayothidas emphasized the Dravidian identity, critiquing Aryan dominance and advocating for a revival of Tamil Buddhist traditions. Periyar’s Self-Respect Movement sought to dismantle Brahminical hegemony and promote Dravidian pride, atheism, and self-respect among oppressed communities.
The Role of the RSS
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has also engaged with the caste issue, albeit controversially. In 1966, the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) disowned the caste system and advocated for Hindu unity. RSS rules discourage caste-based inquiries among its members and promote inter-caste interactions. While the organization faces criticism for its Brahmanical leadership, it emphasizes self-driven reforms and social integration.
Conclusion
The history of caste-based oppression and the corresponding resistance movements reveal the complex interplay between social reform and nationalism in India. Leaders like Phule, Ambedkar, and Narayana Guru laid the foundation for a more egalitarian society by challenging Brahminical dominance and advocating for education and political empowerment. While organizations like the RSS claim to address caste issues, the path to genuine equality requires a sustained commitment to dismantling systemic injustices. The legacy of anti-caste movements underscores the ongoing struggle for a society rooted in justice, dignity, and true national unity.
