1. Discrimination and Social Injustice: The caste system is based on rigid social hierarchies, where individuals are assigned a specific caste based on their birth. This system leads to discrimination and social injustice, as lower-caste individuals are subjected to various forms of social and economic exclusion, untouchability, and limited access to education, employment, and other opportunities. Such discrimination is widely seen as a violation of basic human rights and equality.
2. Violation of Human Rights: The caste system perpetuates social stratification, which often results in the violation of fundamental human rights. Caste-based discrimination violates several articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) adopted by the United Nations, which emphasizes equality, non-discrimination, and the inherent dignity of all human beings.
3. Lack of Social Mobility: The caste system restricts social mobility and limits individuals' ability to improve their social and economic status. This is because caste membership is determined at birth and remains unchanged throughout a person's life. Such rigidity goes against the principles of individual merit, social equality, and the opportunity for personal growth and development.
4. Caste-Based Violence: The caste system has historically led to various forms of violence against lower-caste individuals. Caste-based violence includes physical assault, verbal abuse, honor killings, and other forms of discrimination that have resulted in serious human rights abuses.
5. International Pressure and Criticism: Western countries, international human rights organizations, and civil society groups have increasingly criticized India for its failure to effectively address caste discrimination and its impact on human rights. This pressure from the international community has contributed to the ongoing debate and controversy surrounding the caste system in India.
It's important to note that the Indian government has taken several steps to address caste-based discrimination, such as implementing affirmative action policies and enacting anti-discrimination laws. However, the caste system continues to be a complex and deeply entrenched issue in Indian society, and its eradication requires continued efforts and collaboration from various stakeholders to achieve lasting social change and equality for all.