Mohan Bhagwat, chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), recently called for the eradication of caste from individual minds as a prerequisite for ending societal discrimination. Speaking at a public event in Nagpur on a Sunday in late October, his remarks underscored the organization's evolving stance on the deeply entrenched issue of caste in India, emphasizing a fundamental shift in perception to achieve true equality.
Background: The Enduring Shadow of Caste
The caste system, a hierarchical social structure historically prevalent in India, has profoundly shaped its society for millennia. Rooted in ancient Hindu scriptures, it traditionally categorized individuals into various groups based on birth, dictating their social status, occupation, and even marital prospects. While the four primary varnas – Brahmins (priests, scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors, rulers), Vaishyas (merchants, farmers), and Shudras (laborers, service providers) – form the theoretical framework, thousands of jatis (sub-castes) exist, each with its own customs and practices.
Historical Roots and Social Stratification
Historically, the caste system was not merely a social classification but a rigid framework that enforced social, economic, and political inequalities. Those at the top of the hierarchy enjoyed privileges, while those at the bottom, particularly the Dalits (formerly known as untouchables), faced severe discrimination, exclusion, and oppression. Their touch, presence, or even shadow was considered polluting by upper castes, leading to generations of systemic marginalization and denial of basic human rights.
Constitutional Mandate and Reform Efforts
Upon gaining independence, India's Constitution explicitly outlawed caste-based discrimination, making it a punishable offense under Article 15 and abolishing "untouchability" under Article 17. The state implemented affirmative action policies, known as reservations, to provide quotas in education, government jobs, and legislative bodies for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) to address historical injustices and promote social mobility. Numerous social reformers, including Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, dedicated their lives to dismantling the caste system, advocating for equality and dignity for all. Ambedkar, himself a Dalit, championed the cause of his community and played a pivotal role in drafting the Indian Constitution, ensuring safeguards against discrimination.
The RSS and Caste: A Complex History
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, founded in 1925, has historically presented itself as a cultural organization dedicated to unifying Hindu society. Its stance on caste has been complex and, at times, contradictory. While the RSS has often advocated for a unified Hindu identity transcending caste divisions, critics have pointed to its traditionalist roots and perceived reluctance to directly challenge the structural aspects of caste hierarchy. However, over the past few decades, particularly under successive Sarsanghchalaks, the RSS has increasingly issued statements condemning caste discrimination and untouchability. Leaders have frequently asserted that all Hindus are equal, irrespective of their birth, and have organized various social harmony programs aimed at fostering inter-caste unity, such as 'Samajik Samrasta' (social harmony) initiatives, promoting inter-dining and communal gatherings.
Previous RSS chiefs, including K.S. Sudarshan and M.S. Golwalkar, had also made statements against untouchability, though the emphasis on mental eradication has gained prominence under Mohan Bhagwat. This evolving discourse reflects a broader effort by the organization to align with contemporary social justice narratives and broaden its appeal across diverse segments of Hindu society.
Key Developments: Bhagwat’s Latest Pronouncement and Reactions
Mohan Bhagwat's recent address in Nagpur marked a significant moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding caste and the RSS's role in it. Speaking at a felicitation event for a book, Bhagwat asserted, "God did not create caste. Caste was created by Pandits (scholars/priests), which is wrong. We are Hindus, and we are all equal." He further urged individuals to "remove caste from your mind," emphasizing that if caste distinctions are eradicated from individual thought processes, then discrimination will automatically cease to exist.
Specifics of Bhagwat’s Statement
Bhagwat's remarks were part of a broader call for social harmony and unity within Hindu society. He stressed that the notion of superiority or inferiority based on birth is an artificial construct, not divinely ordained. His statement, "God always said that for him, everyone is equal and there is no caste, varna," directly challenged the theological justifications often used to perpetuate the caste system. The RSS chief elaborated that the responsibility for creating and perpetuating caste divisions lay with human agents, specifically "Pandits," a term often used to refer to Brahmins or religious scholars. This attribution of fault to a specific group within the Hindu hierarchy, while not entirely new, was notable for its directness. The emphasis on "removing caste from your mind" positioned the solution as an internal, cognitive shift, rather than solely an external, structural overhaul.
Diverse Reactions and Interpretations
Bhagwat's statement elicited a wide range of reactions from across the political and social spectrum.
Dalit Organizations and Activists: Cautious Welcome and Demands for Action
Many Dalit organizations and activists expressed a cautious welcome, acknowledging the positive intent behind the words but simultaneously demanding concrete action. Leaders like Prakash Ambedkar, grandson of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, while noting the significance of an RSS chief making such a statement, called for the RSS to translate these words into tangible reforms within its own structures and affiliated organizations. Activists pointed out that merely "erasing caste from the mind" is insufficient without addressing the deeply entrenched socio-economic and political inequalities that caste discrimination perpetuates. They emphasized the need for the RSS to actively support existing anti-discrimination laws and perhaps even advocate for their stronger implementation, rather than focusing solely on individual mindset changes. Some questioned if this was a genuine shift or a strategic move to broaden the RSS's appeal.
Political Parties: Varied Responses
Political parties reacted along expected lines. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), often seen as the political arm of the RSS, largely welcomed Bhagwat's statement, portraying it as a progressive step towards social harmony. BJP leaders highlighted the RSS's commitment to an egalitarian society and emphasized the shared goal of an India free from discrimination. Opposition parties, while not outright rejecting the sentiment, often expressed skepticism. Some Congress leaders suggested that such statements needed to be backed by consistent action and a clear repudiation of any past actions or ideologies that might have contributed to caste divisions. Regional parties with strong Dalit or OBC bases often echoed the demand for concrete action, questioning the practical implications of a purely mental eradication of caste.
Hindu Religious Leaders and Organizations: Internal Debates
Within the broader Hindu religious landscape, Bhagwat's comments sparked internal debates. Many reformist Hindu leaders and organizations aligned with the RSS's vision of a unified Hindu society lauded the statement as a necessary step towards correcting historical wrongs. They saw it as an affirmation of the fundamental equality inherent in spiritual teachings. However, some more conservative elements, who might adhere to traditional interpretations of varna dharma, either remained silent or subtly expressed reservations, emphasizing the spiritual or functional aspects of the varna system while condemning discrimination. The challenge for the RSS lies in reconciling its reformist pronouncements with the diverse and often conflicting views within the vast Hindu religious framework.
Academics and Sociologists: Analytical Perspectives
Academics and sociologists offered analytical perspectives. Many noted the symbolic importance of an RSS chief condemning caste and attributing its creation to human rather than divine agency. They discussed whether this represented a genuine ideological shift or a pragmatic adaptation to modern social justice discourse. Some scholars highlighted the inherent tension between advocating for a mental eradication of caste and the reality of its structural persistence in areas like marriage, housing, and access to resources. They argued that while a change in mindset is crucial, it must be accompanied by robust institutional and legal frameworks to dismantle discriminatory practices effectively.
Previous and Concurrent RSS Initiatives
Bhagwat's statement is not an isolated event but builds upon a series of RSS initiatives aimed at social harmony. The organization has been actively promoting 'Samajik Samrasta' programs, including inter-caste dining events, visits to Dalit localities, and temple entry movements, particularly in rural areas. These efforts aim to break down social barriers at the grassroots level. Furthermore, the RSS has consistently advocated for a more inclusive understanding of Hinduism, often emphasizing shared cultural heritage over divisive social practices. These initiatives demonstrate a sustained effort by the RSS to address the issue of caste, even as the efficacy and depth of these efforts remain subjects of ongoing debate.
Impact: Reshaping Perceptions and Political Discourse
Mohan Bhagwat's statement carries significant weight, potentially impacting the RSS's public image, political discourse, and the broader social fabric of India. The call to erase caste from the mind represents an ideological intervention with far-reaching implications.
On the RSS’s Image and Outreach
The statement is widely perceived as an attempt by the RSS to soften its image and broaden its appeal, particularly among marginalized communities. By explicitly condemning caste and attributing its creation to human error rather than divine will, the RSS seeks to present itself as a progressive force committed to social justice. This move could help the organization shed some of its traditionalist baggage and attract a wider demographic, including Dalits and OBCs, who have historically been wary of its upper-caste dominated leadership. Such pronouncements can bolster the RSS's narrative as a unifying cultural organization, capable of addressing modern social challenges. It also aligns with the broader push for 'inclusive Hindutva' that seeks to bring all sections of Hindu society under one umbrella.
Influence on Political Discourse and the BJP
As the ideological parent of the ruling BJP, the RSS chief's statements often set the tone for the party's social agenda. Bhagwat's remarks could empower the BJP to further its outreach to Dalit and OBC communities, particularly in states where caste dynamics play a crucial role in elections. The BJP has already made significant inroads among these communities in recent years, and Bhagwat's statement provides an ideological underpinning for these efforts. It allows the party to articulate a vision of social equality that is rooted in Hindu reformism, potentially countering narratives that portray it as a party that benefits only upper castes. The statement could also influence policy discussions, subtly shifting focus towards cultural and educational initiatives that promote inter-caste harmony, alongside existing affirmative action policies.
On Marginalized Communities: Hope and Skepticism
For marginalized communities, particularly Dalits, Bhagwat's statement evokes a mix of hope and skepticism. While any condemnation of caste discrimination from a prominent Hindu leader is generally welcomed, the emphasis on "mental eradication" raises questions about the commitment to addressing structural inequalities. Many feel that discrimination is not merely a matter of individual mindset but is deeply embedded in social, economic, and political structures. They seek concrete actions, such as greater representation, stricter enforcement of anti-discrimination laws, and dismantling of discriminatory practices in housing, employment, and public spaces. The statement might offer a glimmer of hope for a more inclusive future, but it also fuels skepticism about the willingness of powerful institutions to truly dismantle the systems that perpetuate their privilege.
Challenges in Implementation and Practicality
The practical implementation of "erasing caste from the mind" presents significant challenges. Caste identity is deeply ingrained in Indian society, influencing marriage patterns, social networks, and even political affiliations. While individual mindset changes are crucial, they alone may not be sufficient to dismantle centuries of institutionalized discrimination. The statement does not directly address issues like endogamy, honor killings, or the economic disparities linked to caste. Critics argue that focusing solely on mental eradication might inadvertently downplay the need for continued affirmative action, legal protections, and grassroots activism to combat overt discrimination. True eradication would require not just a change of heart, but also a transformation of societal norms and power structures.
Role of Education and Awareness
Bhagwat's emphasis on mental eradication implicitly highlights the role of education and awareness campaigns. If the problem lies in the mind, then educating individuals about the artificiality and injustice of caste becomes paramount. This could lead to increased efforts by the RSS and its affiliates to promote inter-caste harmony through educational initiatives, cultural programs, and community dialogues. Such efforts could potentially foster a generation that is more conscious of caste prejudice and committed to building an egalitarian society. However, the challenge remains in ensuring that such educational efforts are truly inclusive and do not gloss over the historical realities of caste oppression.
What Next: Pathways to a Caste-Free Society
The path forward following Mohan Bhagwat's significant statement involves a multi-pronged approach, encompassing ideological shifts, grassroots initiatives, policy considerations, and continued public discourse. The challenge lies in translating the sentiment of "erasing caste from the mind" into tangible, lasting change on the ground.
Concrete Steps by the RSS and Affiliates
For Bhagwat's words to resonate beyond rhetoric, the RSS and its vast network of affiliated organizations will need to demonstrate concrete action. This could involve:
Internal Campaigns: Launching extensive internal campaigns within the RSS and its various wings (e.g., educational institutions, labor unions, student organizations) to educate cadres about the evils of caste discrimination and promote inter-caste fraternity. This could include workshops, seminars, and regular discussions emphasizing the shared humanity of all.
* Inter-Caste Initiatives: Intensifying existing programs like 'Samajik Samrasta' events, which promote inter-dining, common festivals, and shared social spaces between different caste groups. Expanding initiatives that encourage inter-caste marriages and provide support to such couples could also be a powerful statement.
* Temple Entry and Equality: Actively working to ensure equal access and participation for all castes in religious institutions, including temples and community rituals. This would involve challenging any remaining discriminatory practices within religious spaces and promoting inclusive forms of worship.
* Support for Anti-Discrimination Laws: Publicly advocating for the strict enforcement of existing laws against caste discrimination, such as the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. This would signal a commitment to legal and structural remedies alongside ideological shifts.
* Addressing Economic Disparities: While the focus is on mindset, the RSS could also explore initiatives that address the economic disparities often linked to caste, such as vocational training programs or support for entrepreneurship in marginalized communities.
Government Response and Policy Implications
While Bhagwat's statement is primarily ideological, it could influence government policy, especially given the BJP's close ties to the RSS. The government might:
Reinforce Social Harmony Programs: Increase funding and support for government-led social harmony programs that aim to bridge caste divides.
* Educational Curriculum Reforms: Consider reviewing educational curricula to include more comprehensive and sensitive portrayals of caste history, the struggles against discrimination, and the constitutional mandate for equality.
* Monitoring and Reporting: Enhance mechanisms for monitoring caste-based discrimination and ensuring prompt action against perpetrators.
* Dialogue with Stakeholders: Engage in more structured dialogues with Dalit organizations, social reformers, and academics to understand their concerns and integrate their perspectives into policy-making.
Continued Debate and Public Discourse
Bhagwat's statement will undoubtedly fuel continued public discourse and academic debate. This ongoing conversation is crucial for:
Raising Awareness: Keeping the issue of caste discrimination at the forefront of national consciousness, prompting individuals and communities to reflect on their own biases.
* Challenging Prejudices: Encouraging critical examination of traditional beliefs and practices that perpetuate caste distinctions.
* Shaping Public Opinion: Gradually shifting societal norms towards greater inclusivity and equality.
* Accountability: Holding leaders and institutions accountable for their pronouncements and ensuring that words are matched by deeds.
Long-Term Vision: A Truly Egalitarian Society
The long-term vision articulated by Bhagwat is a society where caste-based discrimination is a relic of the past, not just legally but also mentally and socially. Achieving this would entail:
Beyond Affirmative Action: While reservations are crucial for historical redressal, a truly caste-free society would ideally see a reduction in the need for such measures as systemic inequalities diminish.
* Inter-Caste Marriage and Social Mixing: A significant increase in inter-caste marriages and extensive social mixing across all spheres of life, leading to the gradual blurring of caste identities.
* Economic Equity: The elimination of economic disparities directly attributable to caste, ensuring equal opportunities and outcomes for all.
* Cultural Transformation: A cultural shift where caste is no longer a factor in social interactions, personal relationships, or professional opportunities.
However, realizing this vision requires sustained effort over generations, addressing both the ideological roots of caste and its structural manifestations. The journey to a truly caste-free India is complex, demanding commitment from individuals, communities, and institutions alike, building on statements like Bhagwat's to foster deeper, more inclusive social reforms.
