The Caste Privileged Who Oppose Caste

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Source: Speak The Mag

Caste has long been a pervasive and deeply entrenched social structure in India. Often perceived as a “lower caste problem,” this complex hierarchy impacts all levels of society, perpetuating inequality and discrimination.

The contributions of upper-caste leaders in the fight against caste discrimination are often undermined which reinforces the perception that caste is solely a “lower caste problem.” Their contributions, although sometimes overlooked, highlight that this is a universal human struggle for equality and justice. This marginalisation occurs for several reasons:

1. Stereotyping and Simplification: Caste issues are frequently simplified in public discourse, focusing predominantly on the suffering of lower castes. While this suffering is immense and should be highlighted, it leads to the erroneous belief that only lower castes have a stake in eradicating caste. In reality, caste inhibits the possibilities of every South Asian subject to the system.
2. Lack of Visibility: The efforts of upper-caste reformers can be overshadowed by their privileged status. There is a tendency to view their contributions with skepticism, questioning their motivations and the depth of their commitment. While uplifting the voices of the most oppressed is critical to any anti-oppression movement, it should not undermine that this is a struggle that all people must partake in.
3. Polarised Narratives: In a highly polarised socio-political landscape, acknowledging the role of upper-caste individuals in anti-caste movements can sometimes be politically inconvenient. This can result in a skewed narrative that does not fully recognise the collaborative nature of the struggle against caste.

Historical Figures

• Raja Ram Mohan Roy (1772–1833), born into a high-caste Brahmin family, was a pioneering social reformer during the British colonial period. He is often referred to as the “Father of Modern India” for his efforts to abolish practices like Sati (the burning of widows) and to promote women’s rights and education. Roy also advocated against the rigid caste distinctions that prevented social mobility and progress. His work laid the groundwork for future social reforms in India.
• Gopal Ganesh Agarkar (1856–1895), a contemporary of Bal Gangadhar Tilak, was a social reformer from the Chitpavan Brahmin community. He was a strong advocate for social equality and education. Agarkar criticised the caste system and worked towards creating a more equitable society through his writings and reformist activities. His efforts in promoting women’s education and opposing caste-based discrimination were pioneering during his time.
• Dhondo Keshav Karve (1858–1962), also known as Maharshi Karve, was an eminent social reformer from a Brahmin family. He dedicated his life to the upliftment of women and the eradication of caste discrimination. Karve founded the first women’s university in India, the SNDT Women’s University, and was a vocal advocate for widow remarriage and women’s education.
• Swami Vivekananda (1863–1902), a monk and disciple of Ramakrishna, was a key figure in introducing Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world. Born into a Kayastha family, considered upper-caste, Vivekananda was a vocal critic of the caste system. He emphasised the spiritual unity of all human beings, regardless of caste or creed, and worked to uplift the downtrodden sections of society. He considered priesthood and untouchability as the main evils of the degenerated caste system. His famous speech at the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago in 1893 highlighted his vision of a society free from caste distinctions.
• Vitthal Ramji Shinde (1873–1944), from a Maratha family, was a social reformer who fought against untouchability and caste discrimination. He founded the Depressed Classes Mission in 1906 to work towards the social and educational upliftment of the untouchables. Shinde’s efforts were instrumental in promoting social harmony and inclusivity in Indian society.
• Kamala Devi Chattopadhyay (1903–1988), born into a Saraswat Brahmin family, was an Indian social reformer and freedom fighter. She played a crucial role in the upliftment of women and the disadvantaged. Kamala Devi was instrumental in the revival of Indian handicrafts and handlooms, providing economic independence to lower-caste artisans. Her work emphasised the importance of inclusive growth and social equality.
• Ela Bhatt (1933–2022), born into a high-caste Brahmin family, founded the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) in 1972. SEWA has been a powerful force in empowering women from marginalized communities, including many from lower castes. Bhatt’s work has been instrumental in promoting economic self-sufficiency and social justice for all women, regardless of caste.

Contemporary Voices

• Arundhati Roy, a renowned author and activist, has been a vocal critic of caste-based oppression in modern India. Although from a Syrian Christian background, often seen as an upper-caste equivalent in Kerala, her works and activism have consistently highlighted the plights of marginalised communities. Her Booker Prize-winning novel, The God of Small Things, poignantly addresses issues of caste and social injustice.
• Bezwada Wilson, a leader in the Safai Karamchari Andolan (an organisation fighting for the rights of sanitation workers), comes from the Mala community, traditionally classified as a Dalit caste. Despite his own marginalised status, he has garnered significant support from upper-caste allies. Many upper-caste activists work alongside him to dismantle the inhumane practice of manual scavenging, showcasing a collaborative approach to addressing caste issues.
• Ramachandra Guha, historian and writer, from an upper-caste background, has been a steadfast advocate for social justice and equality. His scholarly works often address the nuances of caste and its impact on Indian society. Guha’s writings emphasise that caste is not just a problem for the lower castes but a significant issue that affects the entire nation’s progress and unity.

Moving Forward: A Collaborative Approach

To truly dismantle the caste system, it is crucial to recognise that it is a problem that affects everyone, not just those most violently impacted by it. Acknowledging the contributions of upper-caste leaders should not diminish the struggles of those from lower castes but rather highlight the universal appeal of the fight for equality.

Promoting a more inclusive narrative that acknowledges contributions from all sections of society can help foster unity and collective action. By understanding that caste is an Indian and human problem, we can work towards a more equitable society where everyone, regardless of caste, can live with dignity and respect.

The fight against caste discrimination is ongoing and requires the efforts of individuals from all backgrounds. By breaking down the barriers of caste, we move closer to a society that values justice, equality, and humanity above all else.