Shodh Prabha: A Multidisciplinary Journal

Caste System and Social Equality in Modern India

The caste system has been one of the most significant social institutions in Indian society for centuries. It has historically determined an individual’s social status, occupation, marriage relations, and access to social and economic opportunities. Although the Indian Constitution guarantees equality and prohibits caste-based discrimination, the influence of caste continues to shape social, political, and economic life in modern India. This paper examines the historical development of the caste system and analyses its impact on social equality in contemporary Indian society. The study explores how caste hierarchy evolved from the traditional Varna system into a rigid social structure that created inequality and exclusion among different social groups. The paper further discusses the role of social reformers such as Dr B.R. Ambedkar, Jyotirao Phule, Mahatma Gandhi, and Periyar in challenging caste discrimination and promoting social justice. Special attention is given to constitutional provisions, reservation policies, and welfare programmes introduced by the Indian government to uplift Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes. The study also highlights the persistence of caste-based discrimination in areas such as education, employment, politics, marriage, and access to resources despite rapid urbanisation and modernisation.