Why Some Brahmins Are Now Recognized as OBCs in India
The Indian Constitution, recognizing the need for social and educational upliftment, has designated certain castes and communities under the category of Other Backward Classes (OBC). These OBCs are defined as socially and educationally backward classes and are entitled to reserved seats and positions in government employment and institutions of higher education. The list of OBCs is dynamic and updated based on social, educational, and economic indicators.
The Reservations for OBCs
According to the caste-based reservation policy, 27% of public sector employment and higher education seats are reserved for OBCs. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment plays a crucial role in maintaining this list, ensuring that castes and communities are added or removed based on various factors. A report from the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian Parliament, revealed that in January 2016, the percentage of OBCs in central government services was 21.57, showing an increasing trend since September 1993.
Rajapur Saraswat Brahmins
The Rajapur Saraswat Brahmins, a subgroup of the Saraswat Brahmins, are recognized in the states of Maharashtra, Kerala, and Karnataka. These Brahmins, though traditionally considered upper-caste, have faced socio-economic challenges that have led to their inclusion in the OBC list. Their recognition reflects the dynamic nature of the OBC category, which aims to accommodate various social and economic tiers within the broader Brahmin community.
Bhargav Dakaut or Joshi Brahmins
The Bhargav Dakaut or Joshi Brahmins, recognized in the states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, and Delhi, also fall under the OBC category. This recognition highlights the varied socio-economic profiles among Brahmin subgroups and the policy's attempt to address disparities within these communities. The inclusion of these subgroups in the OBC list indicates a broader effort to ensure social inclusivity and educational opportunities.
Kattaha Brahmin
The Kattaha Brahmins, recognized in Rajasthan, represent another example of Brahmins who have been recognized as OBCs. This recognition is indicative of the diversity within the Brahmin community and the policy's aim to accommodate different social and economic contexts. The categorization of these Brahmins as OBCs reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring social and educational development for all sections of society.
Saurashtra Brahmins
The Saurashtra Brahmins, recognized in the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, have been included in the OBC list. This reflects the complex socio-economic dynamics within the Brahmin community, where some subgroups face challenges that are being addressed by policies aimed at inclusive growth and development. The recognition of Saurashtra Brahmins as OBCs underscores the government's commitment to promoting educational and employment opportunities for marginalized sections within the community.
Goswami Brahman
The Goswami Brahman, recognized in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and other regions, are another example of Brahmins who have been included in the OBC category. The inclusion of these Brahmins in the OBC list highlights the diverse socio-economic backgrounds within the larger Brahmin community and the multifaceted nature of the OBC policy.
Dhiman and Jangid Brahmins
The Dhiman and Jangid Brahmins, recognized in the states of Chandigarh, Delhi, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, also fall under the OBC category. This recognition is a reflection of the distinct socio-economic conditions faced by these subgroups within the Brahmin community. The policy aims to address these challenges and provides them with reserved opportunities in both employment and education.
Bairagi
The Bairagi, recognized in the states of Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh, Delhi, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, are another example of Brahmins who have been included in the OBC category. The recognition of Bairagi as OBCs reflects the government's effort to ensure that all sections of the community, including those with distinct socio-economic backgrounds, have access to higher education and employment opportunities.
Gurav or Shaiv Brahmin
The Gurav or Shaiv Brahmin, recognized in the state of Maharashtra, represents another subgroup of Brahmins who have been included in the OBC category. The inclusion of these Brahmins in the OBC list reflects the policy's aim to ensure that all sections of the community have equal access to opportunities for social and educational development. This recognition highlights the government's commitment to inclusivity and fairness in the reservation policy.
Conclusion
The recognition of some Brahmins as OBCs in India is a testament to the dynamic and evolving nature of the OBC policy. This policy aims to address historical and contemporary socio-economic disparities within the Brahmin community and provide opportunities for social and educational advancement. The inclusion of these subgroups in the OBC category reflects a broader effort to ensure social inclusivity and equal opportunities for all sections of society.