I beg to differ from Andre Beteille's view that discrimination on the basis of caste is declining in urban areas (“India's destiny not caste in stone,” Feb. 21). Students in professional colleges are keen on making friends with students belonging to their caste, and they avoid mingling with others. Sometimes, student caste groups even clash. And during elections, even the so-called educated urban sections vote for candidates on the basis of caste. Inter-caste marriages are still taboo in most urban families.

R.V.K. Saketh, Visakhapatnam

The major factors to which the receding caste consciousness can be attributed are modern education, universal adult franchise and globalisation. Socialist policies introduced by early post-independence governments and carried forward by many constitutional institutions also contributed to loosening the clutches of the caste system. Though it is true that casteism is gradually fading from Indian societies, the slow pace is a cause for concern. Caste-based politics, an ineluctable nemesis in Indian democracy, is hindering the process of achieving a casteless society. Another reason is the vulnerability of our emotionally weak sections, which have let themselves be exploited by vote-bank politicians.

Krishnaprasad Balan, Chennai

Science and communication might have brought people together but they have not obliterated the entrenched caste system. While Dalits and other downtrodden sections have improved their economic and political status over decades, thanks to reservation in education and employment, their social status leaves a lot to be desired.

M. Jeyaram, Sholavandan

I agree that there is a visible downtrend in caste-based discrimination, at least in some quarters. But it is undeniable that there is discrimination on the basis of caste.

Reports of walls dividing places of dwelling, denial of temple entry, and blocking elected representatives from performing their duties just because they belong to a lower caste are common. As long as poverty and illiteracy exist, the caste system will remain.

T. Yoganandh, Salem

It is true that caste constraints have eased in spheres outside politics. This transformation is welcome but it is a pity that our society has taken so long to get here. Given the parochial mindset in large parts of India, one cannot expect a society free from the shackles of caste. We should disseminate ideas of rationality and scientific inquiry if the pace of transformation is to be speeded up.

Narayan Har Gupta, Nainital

The Indian electorate is either apathetic to political discourses or is driven by ideology, identity, interest and, at times, all. This dynamic political participation is mostly undermined by media experts who still hold caste as the sacred cow that determines Indian politics. The stereotypical and judgmental view on caste keeps it in the public domain. Half-baked truths on caste and politics are packaged well and delivered for mass consumption.

Subas C. Mohapatra, Delhi

The caste system is rooted in the arranged marriage system, which is almost extinct elsewhere. Elders who arrange marriages prefer to tread the trodden path and youngsters do not oppose it because it satisfies their desire for economic prosperity. The twin evils of caste and dowry will exist as long as we continue to patronise arranged marriages.

S.P. Asokan, Chennai

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