THE BIGGEST BENEFICIARIES OF CASTE-BASED POLITICS ARE GOONS, MUSCLEMEN AND THEIR RELATIVES: ATUL PRAKASH

THE BIGGEST BENEFICIARIES OF CASTE-BASED POLITICS ARE GOONS, MUSCLEMEN AND THEIR RELATIVES: ATUL PRAKASH

4-NOV-ENG 3

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA-------------------------I firmly assert that the primary beneficiaries of caste-based politics are goons, musclemen, and their family members. This is a grave charge that erodes the credibility of politics in the eyes of society.

Several factors fuel this pernicious trend: vote-bank politics, coercion and influence, the shielding of criminal networks, the deployment of money and muscle power, and the reinforcement of rigid caste identities.

In my view, politicians and political parties bear far greater responsibility for perpetuating caste-based politics than voters do. For their own selfish gains, they weaponize caste during elections. The consequence? Goons, musclemen, or their relatives secure party tickets, ascend to become MLAs, MPs, or even cabinet ministers. This is where the toxic cocktail of crime and politics is mixed, igniting a frenzied race for extortion and lucrative tenders.

The dominance of musclemen spawns a loyal cadre of casteist enforcers and thugs whom segments of society begin to idolize and support. Goons and criminals routinely exploit caste-based politics to advance their personal agendas, thereby deepening societal divisions and escalating violence.

In certain regions of India, caste-based politics has elevated goons and musclemen to positions of political authority and impunity. This is a profound crisis that strikes at the heart of democracy and obstructs national progress.

Caste-based politics sows division, imperils social cohesion, and undermines national integrity. It frequently incites violence and crime, fostering an environment of instability and fear. Moreover, it exacerbates economic disparities, enriching select groups while impoverishing others.

We must unite in our efforts to eradicate this malaise and forge a robust, prosperous democracy.