Caste is still important in Tamil Nadu, known as a ‘land of social justice’

DMK and AIADMK, the two dominant Dravidian parties in Tamil Nadu, have seen a significant increase in candidates from three caste groups — Vanniyakula Kshatriya (Vanniyar), Mukkulathor (Thevars), and Kongu Vellalar (Gounders) — in recent elections. This trend is attributed to the enduring influence of caste within the state's political landscape, despite efforts towards social justice. The rise of caste-based parties like the Naam Tamilar Katchi and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, which have fielded candidates from these communities, highlights the continued importance of caste in electoral politics. Political analysts argue that while affirmative action has attempted to address social inequities, it has inadvertently reinforced existing caste hierarchies.