The rigid structure of the caste system in India has abided through centuries. Its functionality in society is highly surprising because it has many drawbacks such as untouchability and discrimination. The leaders of independent India decided that India will be democratic, socialist and secular country, and practicing untouchability and caste-based discrimination are legally forbidden. Along with this, Indian government allows positive discrimination of the depressed classes of India. However, the caste system is still very much prevalent in India and the effects of caste system in modern India can be seen in the form of quota systems, reservations, marriages etc.
The book provides well-written and well-researched information on caste system and practices in modern India. In eight chapters, it describes the modern issues of Indian caste system such as caste reforms, caste radicalism, caste conflicts, caste politics, modern caste practices, reservation politics and developmental issues of backward classes, in a comprehensive way. Written in a lucid style, the book narrates new perspectives on caste system which would enliven and create an interest in historians, sociologists, anthropologists, students, researchers and layman alike. |
