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Synopsis The caste system continues to survive as a noticeable aspect of our society. Over the centuries, the caste identities have surfaced as a strong force in contemporary politics and the situation demands for redressal of the inequalities and exploitation generated by this old system. However, a changed situation has stimulated fresh thinking in academic circles on the question of the essence and dynamics of caste. No one can deny the fact that the institution of caste, since the ancient days to the present time, has done a great harm to the society and mostly to the people, belonging to backward classes. There is no doubt that, for over a century or so, the backwards, the Dalits, the untouchables and the unprivileged and marginalised sections of society have struggled effectively to overcome the oppressed state of dehumanisation and turn slavery into socio-economic equality, political security and a share in governance. Still they have to go a long way. Education, social unity and the right sort of leadership is the need of the day. Search for the roots of the problem and an effort to eliminate them is a great task in itself. Perhaps this is the most remarkable task and a service to society, which academics can offer. These volumes are a modest effort in the same direction. This work deals, rather successfully, with all the aspects, related to the backward castes. The study has aptly been divided into three volumes and parts for a clear presentation. The problem is discussed thoroughly, and an effort to seek a solution is also made in this study. In this endeavour, the book emerges as a strong protest against the victimisation of the so-called backwards and also suggests the remedies.