During electoral competition caste is used as a vital factor by politician to get votes. With which process can we relate this example with.

Secularisation of caste

The correct answer is Option (2) → Secularisation of Caste

• Secularisation of caste refers to the shift of caste from a religious framework (purity, pollution, divine hierarchy) to a non-religious, political and social role.

• In contemporary India, caste is often used as a basis for forming political pressure groups, caste associations, or caste-based political parties, which make demands on the state for benefits or representation.

• This use of caste outside the religious context, especially in the political sphere, is what is described as secularisation of caste.

While "politicization of caste" is a common phrase in political science, the NCERT text specifically classifies the transformation of caste into a non-religious, political tool as the secularisation of caste. Since the question is based on NCERT, that’s the best-fit answer. Further, the given answer is as per NTA answer sheet.

NCERT text: In traditional India caste system operated within a religious framework. Belief systems of purity and pollution were central to its practice. Today it often functions as political pressure groups. Contemporary India has seen such formation of caste associations and caste based political parties. They seek to press upon the state their demands. Such a changed role of caste has been described as secularisation of caste.