Castes: An Ancient System with Lingering Modern Consequences

By: Shail Patel

A social structure dating back to the early Moghul empire, the caste system is a systemic form of ethnic classification adversely affecting millions of individuals worldwide. Its origins trace back to ancient India and the global south, where Hindu scriptures outlined a complex system of social hierarchy based on birth and occupation. Titled the varnashrama dharma, the system divides society into four main classes intended to instill order and obedience: Brahmins (priests and scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and traders), and Shudras (laborers and artisans). The fifth category of people exists as the untouchables or the Dalits; considered below humans, group members are outside the caste system and subject to extreme discrimination and oppression.

Over time, the system adopted strict rules and customs governing social interactions, marriage, and occupation. Motivated by greed, individuals in the upper castes exploited their inherent privileges and opportunities, all while those below struggled to survive. The caste system’s religious basis justified generational power structures and resulted in a society devoid of social mobility and hope. People's fates remained predetermined––very rarely did they escape the lifestyles and pursuits of their ancestors. Thus, societies partaking in the caste system remained stagnant, unable to utilize the diverse experiences and skills their general populations provided. Eventually, colonial powers in the 1900s made use of the caste system to further their own agendas. In particular, The British Raj established an administrative body closely aligned with the preexisting castes, routinely recruiting members of the Bharmins to join their ranks. 

The negative impacts of the ancient caste system still affect entire communities in today's global south. Distinctions limit access to education, employment, and other opportunities, thereby leading to social exclusion, marginalization, and violence. Intertwined with other forms of discrimination, such as gender, race, and class, caste-based discrimination can exacerbate existing inequalities and vulnerabilities. One of the most insidious forms of caste-based discrimination relates back to the exclusion of Dalits from mainstream society. Through no fault of their own and entirely dependent on ancestry, untouchables have little access to public spaces, such as schools, hospitals, and places of worship, profoundly impacting their ability to lead fulfilling and productive lives.

Despite the challenges and obstacles, there have been many efforts to combat caste-based discrimination and promote equality and justice. In India, the Constitution of India guarantees the rights of all marginalized groups, providing affirmative action and reservation policies promoting social and economic inclusion. The government has also implemented various policies addressing untouchability and discrimination through compensation and rehabilitation, including the Prevention of Atrocities Act of 1989, which recognizes crimes against Dalits and provides legal support. 

At the international level, the United Nations has recognized caste-based discrimination and adopted several resolutions to promote the rights of Dalits and other marginalized groups. The UN even has a Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance, which addresses the issue of caste discrimination and the ways in which we might eliminate it.

Now more than ever, nations must recognize the significance of their immigrant populations and strive towards implementing protocols against caste discrimination. Brown University’s recent undertakings demonstrate a major breakthrough for this movement: On December 7th, 2022, the prestigious Ivy League institution voted to add castes as a protected characteristic in its policy against discrimination. While Vice President for Institutional Equity and Diversity Sylvia Carey-Butler clarifies that its existing standards already protect individuals experiencing caste discrimination, the university felt it necessary to express a clear position on caste equity.  

The school states that "Brown University is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming community for all members, free from discrimination and harassment on the basis of caste." It goes on to specify that "any form of discrimination or harassment on the basis of caste is unacceptable and will not be tolerated." This includes discrimination in the admission process, hiring and employment practices, and other aspects of university life.

The university has also taken steps to educate its students, faculty, and staff about the issue in order to ensure that this new legislation is practical. For example, the university offers workshops and seminars on caste discrimination and social justice. It has even established a support network for students and faculty members who have experienced discrimination based on caste. Citing the stigma surrounding caste discrimination victims, Brown University sets a standard and establishes a safe environment for students to step forward and express their concerns. 

Overall, in an increasingly interconnected and diverse global society, it is a moral responsibility that students and individuals globally advocate for their underrepresented peers and call for institutional change. A neglected but pressing issue, caste discrimination impacts workplace settings to everyday social encounters, emphasizing the need for unilateral cooperation. By dismantling prejudiced social hierarchies, we may contribute to a society that preserves the dignity of the individuals within it.