Daily Mains Practice Answer 20-07-2026

Q. Examine how caste and religion intersect in shaping access to affirmative action in India. (10 Marks, 150 Words)

Introduction:

Define Affirmative actions, with some examples in India.

Main Body

Intersection of caste & religion

• Caste as a primary criterion – Under Articles 15 and 16, the President can appoint commissions under Article 340, etc.
• Religion & SC Status – Restrict SC status to Hindus, Sikhs & Buddhists, excluding Dalit Muslims and Dalit Christians.
• OBC reservation – Based on social & educational backwardness, backward classes from all religions can avail OBC reservation.
• Persistent of caste after conversion - Conversion often does not eliminate caste-based exclusion, raising concerns about unequal treatment.
• Judicial Interventions – Cases like Indra Sawhney (1992) upheld the caste-based reservation, but limit their scope – highlight tension between caste and religion.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a positive note – as these measures led to the upliftment of historically backward sections (or) rights & an evidence-based framework is needed to further improve society.