The caste calculus

A case for universal provisioning as a precondition to eliminate inequality

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ening identities. Castes that once functioned as fluid, localised and context-specific formations were systematised into rigid, pan-India, theologically-sanctioned categories through six decennial censuses. It gained a fixed character that transcended its more mutable forms, and became a tool of imperial control.

Post-independence, India's ruling classes not only decided to use that template in toto, but added their own cunning by extending it to backward classes in the name of social justice, while effectively evading its core obligation of building capacities of all people, which is a prerequisite for the success of any genuine social justice policy.