The emergence of identity politics in Indian politics is the basis for the attainment of socio-economic, educational, and especially political rights for the neglected castes who have been oppressed for centuries. The movement of identity politics is based on equal rights and opportunities. Indian society is based on the caste system. The caste system is existed not only in Hinduism but also Christianity and Islam. In India, identity politics is found the form of caste politics. In the Indian democratic system, from the selection of candidates to or nomination of party officers caste plays an important role. The caste atrocities and domination of some upper castes over resources galvanized the oppressed class to struggle against that injustice and hegemonic attitude. As a result, the backward caste movement, in the form of identity politics was started. Social justice and equal representation was the main motto of that movement. But caste politics and caste mobilization clouded itself in that movement and the opportunity of that movement was occupied by some middle castes. A big population of the lower castes is still far from these opportunities and benefits.
Bihar is a politically important state in India. In Bihar, identity politics, especially the backward caste movement was started against caste dominance and inequality. But it has terminated itself in casteism and is surrounded by few other powerful castes. Most of the weaker sections of society, especially Extremely Backward Castes are far from that movement. Even now, Extremely Backward Castes stand at the bottom of politics. They are socially, economically, and educationally backward due to a lack of political representation.
In this paper, an attempt is made to analyze this caste character and focuses on the political participation of different castes in Bihar.
