Question

Which among the following statements is untrue with reference to caste-based politics in India?

• A. Political parties have to cut across the caste groups to win elections with a majority.
• B. Politicians exploit fault-lines between caste groups for electoral gains.
• C. Caste, religion, and politics are intertwined.
• D. Rapid urbanisation and development has led to the extinction of caste-based parties.

Answer 1

The correct option is D Rapid urbanisation and development has led to the extinction of caste-based parties.

Caste is still an important factor in elections. Political parties have to cut across the caste-divide to win elections with a comfortable majority. Issues like unemployment, corruption, inflation, and government's welfare policies have become more important in the Lok Sabha elections. Caste plays a more important role in elections to the State Legislatures. Political parties consider caste groups as their vote banks. Multiple governments across the political spectrum have failed to fulfill their promises to their electorate. Caste continues to be a grim reality across the country.