Question

Which of the following statement about caste system is NOT correct?

• A. Castes do not have individual existence; they can only exist in relation to a larger whole.
• B. Castes that are considered as ritually impure have high status.
• C. Caste groups are complementary and non-competing groups.
• D. Caste groups practice endogamy.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

This statement is incorrect as castes deemed ritually impure typically have lower social status within the hierarchical structure of the caste system.

Answer 2

(A) Castes do not have individual existence; they can only exist in relation to a larger whole: This statement is correct. Castes exist within a hierarchical social structure and cannot be understood in isolation. Each caste is defined in relation to others, making them part of a larger social system.

(B) Castes that are considered as ritually impure have high status: This statement is incorrect. In the caste system, those considered ritually impure, often referred to as "untouchables" or "Scheduled Castes," have historically had low status. These groups are seen as lower in the social hierarchy due to their association with impure occupations or practices.

(C) Caste groups are complementary and non-competing groups: This statement is correct. In traditional caste systems, each caste had its own specific duties and roles, often seen as complementary to one another, where there was little direct competition but rather a division of labor.

(D) Caste groups practice endogamy: This statement is correct. Endogamy refers to the practice of marrying within one's own caste, which is a common feature of the caste system in India.

Thus, the incorrect statement is (B) Castes that are considered as ritually impure have high status. In fact, these castes typically had low social status within the traditional caste hierarchy.