Dominant or backward? Political economy of demand for quotas by Jats, Patels, and Marathas

Ashwini Deshpande, Rajesh Ramachandran

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21 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Using data from the India Human Development Survey, this paper examines the demands of Jats (Haryana), Patels (Gujarat), and Marathas (Maharashtra) to be classified as Other Backward Classes to access reservations. Compared to the major caste groups (Brahmins, other forward castes, existing OBCs, and Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes) in their respective states, based on several socio-economic factors, they are closer to dominant than disadvantaged groups. Their claim to backwardness is empirically unjustified. The paper examines the material basis of their anxieties in the context of structural changes in the Indian agricultural economy. It investigates networks and political connections that explain their success in mobilising.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)81-92
Number of pages12
JournalEconomic and Political Weekly
Volume52
Issue number19
Publication statusPublished - 13 May 2017
Externally publishedYes

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