Given below are two statements, one labeled as Assertion (A) and other as Reason (R):

Select the correct answer from the code given below:

Assertion (A): The Indian polity is governed by vertical mobilization by the dominant castes and horizontal alliances in the name of jati andvarna.

Reason (R): The establishment of a formal democracy guarantees that all citizens will enjoy equal access and participation in the politicalprocesses.

Correct option is C

Assertion (A):

"The Indian polity is governed by vertical mobilization by the dominant castes and horizontal alliances in the name of jati and varna."

Explanation:

1. Vertical Mobilization:

   • In Indian politics, dominant castes often consolidate power within their own caste groups. This is called vertical mobilization.

   • For example, a dominant caste like the Jats in North India or the Reddys in Andhra Pradesh may mobilize their own caste members to gain political power. This creates a hierarchy within the caste system, where dominant castes exert influence over others.

2. Horizontal Alliances:

   • Horizontal alliances refer to the formation of political coalitions across different castes or jatis (sub-castes) based on broader caste categories like varna (e.g., Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, Shudras).

   • For instance, political parties often form alliances with multiple caste groups to create a broader voter base. This is seen in the formation of caste-based voting blocs, such as the alliance of OBCs (Other Backward Classes) or Dalits in certain regions.

3. Role of Caste in Indian Polity:

   • Caste plays a significant role in Indian politics, influencing voting patterns, candidate selection, and policy-making. Political parties often cater to specific caste groups to secure votes.

   • The interplay of vertical mobilization (within a caste) and horizontal alliances (across castes) is a defining feature of Indian democracy.

Thus, Assertion (A) is true because caste dynamics, including vertical and horizontal mobilization, are central to the functioning of Indian polity.

Reason (R):

"The establishment of a formal democracy guarantees that all citizens will enjoy equal access and participation in the political processes."

Explanation:

1. Formal Democracy vs. Ground Reality:

   • While India is a formal democracy with constitutional provisions guaranteeing equality and equal participation, the ground reality is often different.

   • Social inequalities, caste hierarchies, and economic disparities create barriers to equal access and participation in political processes.

2. Caste and Inequality:

   • Despite constitutional guarantees, marginalized groups like Dalits, Adivasis, and OBCs often face discrimination and exclusion from political processes.

   • Dominant castes and elites continue to control political power, limiting the participation of weaker sections.

3. Political Representation:

   • While reservations and affirmative action policies have improved representation for marginalized groups, they still face challenges in accessing equal opportunities in politics.

   • Money, muscle power, and caste-based networks often dominate elections, undermining the principle of equal participation.

4. Conclusion:

   • The establishment of a formal democracy does not automatically guarantee equal access and participation. Structural inequalities and social hierarchies persist, preventing true equality in political processes.

Thus, Reason (R) is false because formal democracy alone does not ensure equal access and participation in practice.