India’s caste system, a centuries-old hierarchy that once determined an individual’s occupation, still exerts a powerful influence over the country’s labor market. Despite legal reforms and affirmative action policies aimed at uplifting marginalized groups, people from the Dalit and other lower castes continue to be disproportionately represented in unskilled and hazardous jobs such as cleaning sewers, manual scavenging, and garbage collection. This caste-based occupational segregation not only perpetuates economic inequality but also reinforces social stigma and exclusion.
Activists and human rights organizations highlight that while the Indian constitution officially abolished the caste system, its effects remain deeply embedded in societal norms and institutional practices. The persistence of this discrimination has led to calls for stronger enforcement of anti-discrimination laws and more robust implementation of reserved quotas in government jobs and education. However, systemic challenges such as lack of awareness, cultural resistance, and corruption continue to hinder progress.
Recent studies indicate that caste-based discrimination in employment not only affects individuals’ livelihoods but also has broader implications for national development. By limiting opportunities for a significant portion of the population, these entrenched inequalities undermine India’s potential for economic growth and social cohesion. Advocates argue that addressing these systemic issues is crucial for achieving the country’s vision of a more inclusive and equitable society.