Inter-caste marriages between castes which have socio-economic parity have increased, to some extent, but this is less true of interreligious marriages. Discuss. (10 Marks) (Answer in 150 words)) (UPSC IAS Mains 2024 General Studies Paper – 1)
Inter-caste and inter-religious marriages have been a topic of debate in India for many years. While these marriages are becoming more common, they still face challenges and resistance from society.
Intercaste Marriages Between Castes with Socio-Economic Parity have Increased:
- Economic Parity as a Factor:
- In modern India, the number of intercaste marriages between castes that share similar socio-economic statuses has seen a gradual increase. Marriages are more likely between castes with similar financial backgrounds, as economic compatibility reduces resistance from families.
- Changing Social Perceptions:
- Globalization and urbanization have contributed to the weakening of rigid caste barriers, especially among financially secure and educated communities.
- Legal and Social Support:
- Legal frameworks like the Special Marriage Act, 1954, provide couples with protection, allowing them to marry outside their caste without religious ceremonies.
Interreligious Marriages: A More Complex Scenario
- Less Common Compared to Intercaste Marriages:
- Interreligious marriages remain rare in India compared to intercaste marriages, largely due to stronger religious boundaries and societal prejudices.
- Religious Tensions and Social Backlash:
- Interreligious marriages often face more resistance from families and communities due to the fear of religious conversion and loss of cultural identity.
- Conversion as a Barrier:
- Religious conversion, required by certain faiths for marriage (e.g., Islam), acts as a significant barrier. This can lead to issues of acceptance and legal complexities.
- Legal Challenges:
- While the Special Marriage Act permits interreligious marriages without conversion, families may still pressurize couples to marry according to religious customs.
Inter-caste and inter-religious marriages in India are slowly becoming more accepted, but they still face challenges and resistance from society. These marriages are seen as a way to promote social equality and religious harmony in a diverse country like India.
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