Theoretically, the caste system can be understood as the combination of two sets of principles. Each caste is supposed to be different from – and is therefore strictly separated from – every other caste. Many of the scriptural rules of caste are thus designed to prevent the mixing of castes – rules ranging from marriage, food sharing and social interaction to occupation. On the other hand, these different and separated castes do not have an individual existence – they can only exist in relation to a larger whole, the totality of society consisting of all castes. Further, this societal whole or system is a hierarchical rather than egalitarian system. Each individual caste occupies not just a distinct place, but also an ordered rank – a particular position in a ladder-like arrangement going from highest to lowest.

Which of the following is NOT TRUE in relation to the caste system?

Castes are supposed to be competing groups.

The correct Answer is Option (2): Castes are supposed to be competing groups.

Castes are not only unequal to each other in ritual terms, they are also supposed to be complementary and non-competing groups. In other words each caste has its own place in the system which cannot be taken by any other caste. Since caste is also linked with occupation, the system functions as the social division of labour, except that, in principle, it allows no mobility.