Castes of Bihar

 Castes of Bihar: An Overview

Bihar, a state deeply rooted in tradition and history, has a complex and layered caste system that plays a significant role in its social, political, and cultural dynamics. The caste structure in Bihar reflects the traditional hierarchical framework of Indian society, shaped by centuries of social practices and historical developments.

Broad Categorization of Castes in Bihar

The caste system in Bihar can be broadly divided into four categories based on the Varna system:

1. Upper Castes
• The upper castes have historically been at the top of the social hierarchy. They have traditionally held power and control over land, education, and religious institutions.
• Key Communities:
• Brahmins: Traditionally priests and scholars, they continue to play a significant role in religious and cultural activities.
• Rajputs: Known for their warrior lineage, they have been prominent landowners and political figures.
• Bhumihars: Agrarian landlords who have been influential in Bihar’s politics and society.
• Kayasthas: Traditionally scribes and administrators, they are now prominent in education, business, and governance.
2. Other Backward Classes (OBCs)
• This group represents a large section of Bihar’s population and includes communities engaged in agriculture, trade, and artisanal work. The OBCs have gained political prominence in the post-independence era.
• Key Communities:
• Yadavs: Traditionally herders and milk producers, they have emerged as a politically dominant group.
• Kurmis: Known for their agricultural skills, they are also significant in the state’s political landscape.
• Koeris: Another agrarian community, involved in vegetable farming and agriculture.
3. Scheduled Castes (SCs)
• These castes, historically marginalized and referred to as Dalits, have faced social and economic discrimination. However, affirmative action and political mobilization have led to some improvement in their status.
• Key Communities:
• Chamar: Traditionally leather workers, they are now involved in various other professions.
• Mushahar: Known as rat-catchers, they are among the most socio-economically deprived groups.
• Dusadh (Paswan): They have made significant political strides, with leaders like Ram Vilas Paswan emerging from this community.
4. Scheduled Tribes (STs)
• Bihar’s tribal population is relatively small and primarily concentrated in certain regions.
• Key Communities:
• Santhal: Mainly found in southern Bihar and involved in agriculture and forest-related activities.
• Oraon: Known for their rich cultural traditions and connection to nature.
5. Muslim Communities
• Bihar also has a significant Muslim population, comprising various castes and sects.
• Key Groups:
• Ashrafs: Considered upper-caste Muslims, including Syeds and Sheikhs.
• Ajlafs: Occupational castes, including weavers (Ansaris) and butchers (Qureshis).
• Arzals: Historically marginalized Muslim groups, akin to Dalits in Hindu society.

Caste and Politics in Bihar

Caste plays a pivotal role in Bihar’s politics, influencing voting patterns, party strategies, and leadership choices. Political mobilization along caste lines became prominent in the post-Mandal era (1990s), with OBCs gaining political power.

• OBC Dominance: Leaders like Lalu Prasad Yadav and Nitish Kumar capitalized on the support of OBC communities, particularly Yadavs and Kurmis.
• Upper Caste Influence: Despite the rise of OBCs, upper castes still wield influence, especially in the BJP.
• Dalit and Mahadalit Mobilization: Dalit leaders like Ram Vilas Paswan and Jitan Ram Manjhi have worked to consolidate Dalit votes, leading to the creation of the Mahadalit category for the most marginalized.

Social Dynamics and Challenges

1. Inequalities: Despite constitutional protections and affirmative action, caste-based discrimination and economic disparities persist in rural areas.
2. Inter-caste Conflicts: Historical tensions between upper castes and Dalits or OBCs occasionally lead to violence and social unrest.
3. Economic Dependence: Landownership patterns, largely skewed in favor of upper castes, perpetuate socio-economic hierarchies.

Changing Dynamics

• Urbanization and Education: Migration, urbanization, and access to education are slowly breaking caste barriers, especially among the younger generation.
• Political Awareness: The rise of caste-based political parties has empowered marginalized communities, giving them a voice in governance.
• Inter-caste Marriages: While still rare, inter-caste marriages are on the rise, signaling a slow but positive shift in societal attitudes.

Conclusion

The caste system in Bihar is deeply entrenched but evolving. While historical inequities persist, socio-political changes, education, and economic growth are paving the way for a more inclusive society. Understanding Bihar’s caste structure is crucial for appreciating its social fabric, political dynamics, and the aspirations of its people.