Caste Matters

by Suraj Yengde

The issue of scandals and corruption in India is endemic. The major national scandals are birthed and anchored largely by the dominant-caste groups, but its blame is often flung towards the non-privileged caste groups. The infamous 2G corruption scandal of the UPA-2 government was widely reported. A. Raja, a Dalit lawmaker from Tamil Nadu, was the prime accused in the case. During the widespread allegations, Raja’s Dalit identity was often invoked to reinforce his corrupt caste character. Similar targeted accusations have been directed in the past against Mayawati, Lalu Prasad Yadav, Madhu Koda, Shibu Soren and other SC, ST and OBC elected lawmakers. In the same vein, however, the caste of corrupt dominant-caste leaders was never brought up. Their corruption was not seen as a representation of their caste character, only of their individual character. A simple google search of ‘corrupt politicians in India’ will mostly direct you to SC, ST and OBC leaders.