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Caste Identity and Social Conflicts in Punjab*

SURINDER S. JODHKA

Caste has not only survived, but also thrives in Indian politics. This is greatly disappointing for those who had assumed that modernization would eventually secularize all aspects of Indian polity. Some contemporary political and social theorists think, however, that there is no reason to see the survival of caste as a debilitating factor. If anything, the increased mobilization of marginalized castes in recent years has broadened, as well as deepened, democracy (Palshikar 2004; Yadav 1999).

Between these extreme positions are several variations. This essay provides an overview of the literature on the subject, identifies some of its shortcomings, and endeavours to overcome ...

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