The influence of casteism on Indian democracy can be discussed under the following heads:
Dangerous for National Unity:
Casteism has divided the whole society. Elections are fought on caste basis which divide the people into various groups. It is dangerous for national unity.
Indian Democracy is based on Casteism:
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Since the first general elections held in 1952, all political parties put up only those candidates who belong to the dominant caste group in that constituency. In the formation of ministry caste plays a dominant role. In some states, only a person belonging to a particular caste can become the Chief Minister.
Due to casteism, voters are not able to select a candidate of their choice- they have to vote for the candidate who belongs to their caste. This not only encourages bad political tradition, but also leads to groupism on the basis of caste.
Violent Activities:
Due to casteism, tension spreads during elections which lead to violence. We daily read in the newspaper about caste-based violence, which often leads to political instability and confusion.
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1. It violates the basic principles enshrined in our constitution for promoting a secular democratic system.
2. The worst affect of casteism is expressed when the dominant castes try to deny to the weaker castes the avenues of progress and the right to equality. Similarly, when the land-owning castes, in order to maintain their traditional hold on land, wealth and power try to deny to other, backward castes their rights and opportunities given to them by the constitution and by the laws