Both Buddhism and Jainism were opposed to the caste system, and this was one of the main reasons for their popularity. This opposition to the caste system was especially welcomed by the people of the lower classes, as over the years, the caste system had degraded into an inhumane and discriminatory practice. The people of the lower caste were treated equivalent to slaves of the higher castes. Debarred from the basic privileges to lead a life of respect, caste system was highly criticised.