The Status and Challenges of Brahmins in India 2017: Beyond Political Manipulation and Economic Injustice

The status of Brahmins in India in the year 2017 was marked by a mixture of legacy, political manipulation, and socio-economic challenges. Brahmins, traditionally associated with the priestly class, have long been a part of the social fabric of India, yet they face unique struggles that are often overlooked.

Introduction to Brahmins in India

Brahman, widely known as Brahmin, is a caste in Hindu society traditionally associated with teachings and religious duties. However, the path of Brahmins in modern India is filled with paradoxes and complexities. In 2017, the status of Brahmins was shaped by both social sector and economic sector factors, and this duality often masked deeper societal divides and injustices.

Political Manipulation and Brahmins

The year 2017 saw a significant political landscape in India, dominated by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Under the BJP government, the role of Brahmins became more than just a social identity; it transformed into a pawn for political gains. Politicians often leveraged the position of Brahmins for their own benefit, thereby perpetuating a cycle of manipulation and misrepresentation.

Blame and Misconception

A common misconception about Brahmins is that their higher status exempts them from criticism or blame. In reality, even those who undertake hard work and seek to improve their lives face societal backlash. For instance, if a Brahmin faces physical pain due to personal habits, they are often blamed, rather than the habits themselves. This misattribution of blame can lead to further alienation and discrimination.

Economic Hardships and Discrimination

Even when Brahmins face economic hardships, they often do not receive the necessary help from the government. Government jobs and benefits, scarce in any society, are even less accessible to those already marginalized within their own communities. For example, poor Brahmins often struggle to access government assistance programs that are meant to support the underprivileged.

Government and Brahmin Supremacy

The government of India in 2017 appeared, on the surface, to be a parliamentary democracy functioning “for the people, by the people, and of the people.” However, in practice, the system was often manipulated to favor certain groups, particularly Brahmins. Since 2014, post the real independence, the BJP government's actions often mirrored those of a theocratic government, with an emphasis on "Go Brahmin." This narrative persists despite the diversity and pluralism of Indian society.

Key Positions and Dominance

Throughout India, the principles of democracy are deeply intertwined with the dominance of Brahmins. From the highest tiers of government, including the Prime Minister and Members of Parliament, to lower-level roles such as Talathi and Revenue Secretary, Brahmins have played significant roles. Military and educational institutions, including top universities and colleges, have also been dominated by Brahmins. This dominance in all key sectors reflects a historical and systemic bias.

Conclusion and Reflection

The status of Brahmins in India in 2017 was a reflection of both progress and backwardness. While Brahmins occupied many positions of power and influence, they also faced significant challenges and discrimination. Those who seek to challenge the hegemony of Brahmins must demonstrate their ability to lead and improve societal conditions. The ongoing struggle to address these issues reflects the complexities of caste, politics, and social justice in contemporary India.