Q. Examine how caste and religion intersect in shaping access to affirmative action in India. (10 Marks, 150 Words)
Direction: Intro-----Intersection of caste and religion-----Conclusion.
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.
