Reconceptualising Caste, Class and Tribe

Once again Professor K.L. Sharma has questioned the recent conceptualisations of caste, class and tribe based on his understanding of the emergent social situations and new parameters of status-evaluation. Change in the ideology of caste as well as inter-caste relations, is the focal point of discussion in this volume. Inter-caste relations have disappeared in everyday life, and politico-economic considerations are shaping and reshaping socio-cultural alliances and activities. New situations, in which different castes and their members find themselves, not only negate caste ideology, but also superimpose a new pattern of social relations on groups, families and individuals. With the emergence of a small power elite and a new middle class among the weaker sections, two trends of change can be discerned: (i) a grave challenge to the hegemony of the entrenched classes, and (ii) the emergence of a new system of social stratification and mobility. Hence, caste is in class and vice versa. With regard to tribes neither the assimilationist nor the isolationist perspective can help the understanding of the complexity of ethnicity-class nexus among the tribes of India. Advent of a tribal elite and a middle class is an offshoot of the role of the state and various movements against the oppressive institutions of exploitation and subjugation. Upliftment of the tribal people through education, employment and legislation is quite visible. A new system of social stratification and mobility is already on its way attacking the entrenched non-tribal exploiters and dehumanising agencies and institutions. Development, distinct identity and self-respect are being demanded not as compassion but as a right. New questions create new situations and social encounters. A changed social milieu does not accept the conventional conceptualisations. Hence, an urge for reconceptualisation of caste, class and tribe.