“Caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms. Hence, caste system cannot be eradicated in India.” Comment. (UPSC 2018)

Caste in India has not disappeared; it has changed form. While untouchability is abolished and discrimination is constitutionally prohibited, caste remains a powerful social and political identity.

• New identities: Caste now works through sub-castes, community groups, matrimonial sites, WhatsApp networks and caste-pride politics.
• Associational forms: It is also used for vote mobilisation, welfare claims and demands for sub-categorisation within SCs and STs.
• Persistence: Atrocities, social exclusion and unequal access to education, jobs and land show that caste still shapes life chances.

However, the claim that caste cannot be eradicated is too absolute. Urbanisation, education, inter-caste interaction and constitutional safeguards are steadily weakening rigid hierarchies.

Thus, caste as a hereditary system may not vanish soon, but its oppressive core can be progressively dismantled through strict law enforcement, social reform and inclusive development.