RSS weekly reignites debate on caste system, calls it 'unifying factor'

AT a time when the BJP is opposed to the caste census being demanded by the Opposition, an editorial appearing in the latest issue of RSS weekly Panchjanya has reignited a debate.

- RAJESH KUMAR THAKUR

The editorial appears to defend the caste system, stating that it is a "unifying factor" of Indian society. Written by its editor Hitesh Shankar, the article argues that while the Mughals and missionaries criticized the caste system, seeing it as an obstacle to their goals, the British adopted this criticism as part of their "divide and rule" strategy. It sounds affirmative in its claim that the caste system was essential for maintaining the social order and that it played a crucial role in preserving India's identity against invasions.