Caste politics in Bihar role of Jaglal Choudhry and Jagjivan Ram 1930 1980

Abstract

The present research study entitled Caste Politics in Bihar: Role of Jaglal Choudhry and Jagjivan Ram, 1930-1980 is an endeavour to identify the root cause of caste politics in Bihar from the lower caste perspective. It describes the role ofthe colonial government in fostering and responding to various demands put forward by the people and the Indian National Congress by bringing reform, legislation and finally provincial autonomy. The path-breaking role of two scheduled caste leaders Jaglal Choudhry and Jagjivan Ram and their significant contribution in mobilising the scheduled castes against the anti-colonial government for representations at the local, regional and national level has been captured aptly.Their understanding and impact of constitutional provisions as Ministers and representative of the lower caste in the state and at the centre have been critically examined. It is interesting that the educational and constitutional reform brought political consciousness among scheduled castes which challenged the hegemony of upper-caste leaders. This aspect has been examined all along with the lasting impact of scheduled caste leaders being denied in the decision-making in spite of their mass base support. newline