Need to erase caste from mind to end discrimination: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat

The statement by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, emphasizing the need to 'erase caste from the mind' to end discrimination and achieve India's ultimate glory, is a significant pronouncement that merits a detailed understanding for competitive exam aspirants. It delves into the complex interplay of social structures, political ideology, and constitutional mandates.

**Background Context and What Happened:**

India has a deeply entrenched caste system, a hierarchical social stratification based on birth, which has historically led to severe discrimination, social exclusion, and economic disparity for centuries. Originating perhaps in ancient Vedic varnas, it rigidified over millennia, creating a system where certain communities, particularly Dalits (formerly known as 'untouchables'), were relegated to the lowest rungs, enduring systemic injustice. Post-independence, the Indian Constitution explicitly outlawed caste discrimination, but its social and psychological remnants persist. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a Hindu nationalist voluntary organization founded in 1925, has often been criticized for its perceived silence or ambiguous stance on caste issues, despite its stated goal of a unified Hindu society. However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in its discourse, with top leaders increasingly speaking out against caste-based discrimination. Mohan Bhagwat's recent statement is a continuation of this evolving narrative, directly calling for a mental paradigm shift to eradicate discrimination, linking it to the broader vision of national progress.

**Key Stakeholders Involved:**

1. **Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS):** As the ideological parent of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and a powerful socio-cultural organization, the RSS's pronouncements carry significant weight. Its vision for a 'Hindu Rashtra' (Hindu Nation) often involves addressing internal social divisions to present a united front. This statement reflects an effort to reconcile its inclusive nationalist rhetoric with the historical realities of caste discrimination. The RSS aims to lead India to its 'ultimate glory' through societal participation, implying that social harmony is crucial for national strength.

2. **Dalit and Marginalized Communities:** These are the primary victims of caste discrimination. For them, such statements from influential organizations offer a glimmer of hope for genuine social change, but they also often view them with skepticism, demanding concrete actions beyond mere words. Their struggle for equality and dignity is central to India's social justice narrative.

3. **Government and Political Parties:** The ruling BJP, deeply influenced by RSS ideology, faces the challenge of translating such calls into effective governance and policy. Other political parties, particularly those representing marginalized communities, often critically evaluate these statements, measuring them against actual policy implementation and historical redressal efforts.

4. **Civil Society and Academics:** These groups play a crucial role in analyzing the implications of such statements, holding organizations accountable, and advocating for more robust anti-discrimination measures. They often highlight the gap between rhetoric and reality.

**Significance for India and Historical Context:**

Caste discrimination remains a significant impediment to India's holistic development. It affects social cohesion, economic mobility, and political representation. Economically, it limits access to education, employment, and resources, perpetuating intergenerational poverty. Socially, it fragments society, leading to prejudice, violence, and denial of human dignity. Politically, caste continues to be a crucial determinant in electoral politics, often exploited for vote bank mobilization. Historically, India has seen numerous social reformers like Mahatma Gandhi, Jyotirao Phule, Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who dedicated their lives to annihilating caste. Dr. Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, enshrined principles of equality and non-discrimination to build a casteless society. Bhagwat's statement, therefore, resonates with a long-standing national aspiration.

**Future Implications:**

Such statements from a prominent figure like Mohan Bhagwat can influence public discourse, potentially fostering greater awareness and introspection within society about the persistence of caste prejudice. They could also push the government to reinforce existing anti-discrimination laws and policies. However, the true test lies in whether these words translate into tangible changes in societal attitudes and practices, moving beyond symbolic gestures to substantive action. It could also be seen as an attempt by the RSS to broaden its appeal, especially among marginalized communities, and counter criticisms regarding its perceived upper-caste bias. This shift might lead to new social initiatives and a recalibration of political strategies concerning social justice issues.

**Related Constitutional Articles, Acts, and Policies:**

India's Constitution is a powerful instrument against caste discrimination. The **Preamble** itself enshrines 'Justice' (social, economic, political), 'Equality' (of status and opportunity), and 'Fraternity' (assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation). Key Fundamental Rights include:

* **Article 14:** Guarantees 'Equality before law' and 'equal protection of laws'.

* **Article 15:** Prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. It also allows the State to make special provisions for the advancement of any socially and educationally backward classes of citizens or for the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes.

* **Article 16:** Ensures 'Equality of opportunity in matters of public employment', with provisions for reservation for backward classes.

* **Article 17:** Categorically abolishes 'Untouchability' and forbids its practice in any form, making its enforcement an offense punishable by law.

* **Article 21:** Guarantees 'Protection of life and personal liberty', which implicitly includes the right to live with dignity, free from discrimination.

Under the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP):

* **Article 38:** Mandates the State to secure a social order for the promotion of the welfare of the people, striving to minimize inequalities.

* **Article 46:** Directs the State to promote with special care the educational and economic interests of the weaker sections of the people, especially the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes, and to protect them from social injustice and all forms of exploitation.

Beyond the Constitution, specific legislation includes the **Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955**, which prescribes punishment for the preaching and practice of 'Untouchability', and the **Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989**, which provides stringent measures to prevent atrocities against SCs and STs and for their rehabilitation. The **Reservation Policy** in education and public employment is another crucial affirmative action measure aimed at addressing historical injustices.