MCQs

1. What is the main feature of caste-based politics in India?

a) Every caste votes as a single unit

b) Candidates are selected based on caste composition of constituencies

c) Caste has no influence on voting patterns

d) Only upper castes participate in elections

2. Which term refers to caste-based discrimination in politics?

a) Communalism

b) Casteism

c) Federalism

d) Secularism

3. Which of the following statements about caste and elections is TRUE?

a) No single caste dominates any parliamentary constituency

b) Only lower castes participate in elections

c) Caste has no impact on Indian politics

d) Political parties do not consider caste when selecting candidates

4. How has caste influenced politics in India?

a) It has helped in the political empowerment of disadvantaged groups

b) It has led to the elimination of caste discrimination

c) It has completely replaced economic and policy-based voting

d) It has had no effect on democracy

5. Which constitutional provision prohibits caste-based discrimination in India?

a) Article 370

b) Article 15

c) Article 21

d) Article 19

Answers and Explanations

1. (b) Candidates are selected based on caste composition of constituencies.

• Political parties often nominate candidates from dominant castes in a region to secure votes .

2. (b) Casteism.

• Casteism refers to discrimination and bias based on caste identity in social and political matters .

3. (a) No single caste dominates any parliamentary constituency.

• Since constituencies have mixed populations, parties must appeal to multiple castes .

4. (a) It has helped in the political empowerment of disadvantaged groups.

• Caste-based politics has allowed Dalits and OBCs to gain better representation .

5. (b) Article 15. • Article 15 of the Indian Constitution prohibits discrimination on the basis of caste .