Identity Politics — Current Affairs 2026

Current Affairs Connections

Recent developments and news linked to Identity Politics.

Bihar's Caste Survey Report and its National Implications

October 2023

The release of Bihar's caste survey report, revealing the demographic breakdown of various caste groups, has reignited the national debate on a caste census. This move is a significant driver of identity politics, as it provides data that can be used to demand proportional representation in government jobs, educational institutions, and political bodies. It has prompted calls from other states and opposition parties for a nationwide caste census, fundamentally altering political discourse and electoral strategies for the upcoming 2024-2026 election cycles. The survey's findings are being used to justify increased reservation demands and to challenge existing power structures, making it a potent tool for identity-based mobilization and a key issue for UPSC analysis.

UPSC Angle: Mains GS-II: Social Justice (Reservation Policy, Vulnerable Sections), Indian Polity (Electoral Reforms, Federalism). Prelims: Facts about Bihar survey, constitutional provisions related to census and reservations.

Maratha Reservation Agitations Intensify in Maharashtra

Late 2023 - Early 2024

The renewed and often violent agitations by the Maratha community for reservation under the OBC category have put immense pressure on the Maharashtra government. Led by figures like Manoj Jarange-Patil, the movement highlights the complex dynamics of identity politics where a historically dominant community perceives itself as economically and socially backward, demanding affirmative action. The state's attempts to grant reservation, often challenged in courts, underscore the constitutional limits and the political tightrope walk involved in accommodating identity-based demands. This ongoing issue demonstrates how identity politics can mobilize large sections of society, influence state policy, and test the judiciary's interpretation of equality and reservation principles.

UPSC Angle: Mains GS-II: Social Justice (Reservation Policy, Backward Classes), Indian Polity (State Politics, Constitutional Challenges). Prelims: Key figures, constitutional articles related to reservations, 'creamy layer' concept.