The correct answer is Option (3) → (A), (B) and (C) only
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A) excluding access to resources: Yes, caste-based discrimination historically and, to some extent, even currently involves denying certain castes access to land, water, education, jobs, and other economic resources. This is a core aspect of discrimination.
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(B) unequal status ascribed at birth: Yes, the fundamental nature of the caste system is that one's social status, occupation, and position in the hierarchy are determined by birth, not by merit or achievement. This ascribed status is inherently unequal and is the basis for discrimination.
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(C) use of a purity-pollution scale: Yes, the concept of purity and pollution is central to the traditional caste system, particularly concerning untouchability. Higher castes were considered pure, and lower castes (especially Dalits) were deemed impure or polluting, leading to social exclusion and discrimination.
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(D) legislations to increase OBC reservation: No, this is an affirmative action measure designed to counteract the effects of historical caste-based discrimination, not a characteristic of the discrimination itself. Reservations aim to provide opportunities to historically disadvantaged groups, including Other Backward Classes (OBCs), to achieve greater social equity.
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