Central Idea

• The recent protests by nationally acclaimed wrestlers against their federation chief have shed light on the limitations of middle-class activism and its failure to mobilize civil society effectively. Despite the potential for mobilization and government pressure, the wrestler protests failed to garner the support and momentum seen in past movements such as the Nirbhaya protests and the Anna Andolan.

What is mean by Middle-Class Activism?

• Middle-class activism refers to the engagement and participation of individuals belonging to the middle class in social, political, and civic activities aimed at bringing about social change, advocating for specific causes, and addressing societal issues.

Historical Perspective

• During the early 20th century, India witnessed a vibrant associational culture characterized by socio-economic initiatives led by urban elites from various social strata.
• While these efforts showcased a pluralistic and egalitarian dimension, they were not devoid of social conservatism and caste/community-based divisions.
• This associational culture, although limited in its reach, played a crucial role in uplifting individuals from lower social strata.

Retreat of Middle-Class Activism

• Shift in Focus: As the middle class gained control over power networks within the state-centered political economy, their focus shifted towards consolidating their own positions within the existing power structure.
• State-Centric Politics: With the middle-class assuming positions of power and influence within the government and bureaucracy, their engagement with civil society organizations and movements diminished.
• Fragmentation along Segmental Loyalties: The rise of caste/community-based organizations in the social and political landscape further fragmented civil society along segmental loyalties. While these organizations played a role in representing specific group identities and interests, they also contributed to a narrowing of civil society engagement and a reduced focus on broader social issues.
• Lack of Inclusivity: The retreat of middle-class activism led to a diminished role in addressing social issues and concerns that extend beyond the immediate interests of the middle class. The engagement became more exclusive and limited to issues directly affecting their own socio-economic status, often neglecting the concerns of marginalized and disadvantaged communities.
• Loss of Associational Culture: The retreat of middle-class activism resulted in a loss of vibrant associational networks that were previously instrumental in addressing social issues and fostering pluralism.

Resurgence of Middle-Class Activism

• Anti-Corruption Movement: During the UPA times, there was a notable rise in middle-class activism against corruption. The movement led by social activist Anna Hazare, commonly known as the Anna Andolan, drew significant support from the middle class, highlighting their dissatisfaction with the prevailing corruption in the political system.
• Demand for Good Governance: Middle-class activists voiced concerns about the need for transparent and accountable governance. They sought to address issues related to political corruption, public services, and the functioning of institutions, reflecting a desire for effective and responsive governance.
• Mass Mobilization: Middle-class activists mobilized large-scale protests and demonstrations to demand change. These movements aimed to bring attention to issues affecting the middle class, such as corruption and governance, and sought to create pressure for policy reforms and systemic improvements.
• Social Media and Technology: The rise of social media and digital platforms provided new avenues for middle-class activists to connect, organize, and mobilize. These platforms facilitated the dissemination of information, coordination of protests, and amplification of voices, leading to increased visibility and impact.
• Civil Society Engagement: Middle-class individuals actively participated in civil society organizations and initiatives, focusing on issues such as corruption, governance, and social justice. They contributed their expertise, resources, and time to drive change, reflecting a renewed interest in shaping civil society.

Critiques and limitations associated with middle-class activism

• Exclusionary Focus: Middle-class activism tends to prioritize issues and concerns that directly impact the middle class, often overlooking the needs and struggles of marginalized and disadvantaged communities. This exclusionary focus can perpetuate inequalities and hinder efforts to address broader social issues.
• Lack of Intersectionality: Failing to consider the intersections of race, gender, class, caste, and other factors can result in a narrow understanding of social issues and the exclusion of marginalized voices.
• Limited Grassroots Engagement: Middle-class activism can sometimes be characterized by top-down approaches, with decisions and agendas being set by a select group of individuals. This limits the involvement and agency of grassroots communities, who are directly affected by social issues and may have unique perspectives and solutions.
• Technocratic Approach: Middle-class activism often favors technocratic solutions and reforms, focusing on policy changes and institutional fixes. While these approaches can be important, they may overlook the deeper social and structural issues that contribute to inequality and injustice.
• Lack of Sustained Commitment: Middle-class activism may exhibit bursts of enthusiasm during certain moments or issues but lack long-term sustained commitment. This episodic engagement can limit the impact and continuity of activism, making it difficult to achieve lasting change.
• Co-option by Existing Power Structures: Middle-class activists may become co-opted or assimilated into existing power structures, diluting their transformative potential. This co-option can result in the absorption of activist energies into mainstream politics or bureaucratic systems, potentially leading to compromises original goals.

The Changing Indian Sensibility

• Technocratic Outlook: The changing sensibility is characterized by a technocratic outlook, which associates progress and development with technocratic governance and entrepreneurialism. There is a growing emphasis on efficient governance, economic growth, and the role of technology in driving societal changes.
• Shifting Perception of Politics: There is a sense of suspicion towards traditional mass-based politics, unions, and caste/community-based affiliations. This perception often stems from disillusionment with the existing political establishment and a desire for a more efficient and meritocratic system.
• Increasing Professionalism: The changing sensibility is marked by the rise of a professional middle class that places value on education, expertise, and meritocracy. There is an emphasis on professional accomplishments, entrepreneurship, and career success as markers of progress and social status.

The Role of Organizational Activism

• Mobilizing Support: Organizational activism involves mobilizing individuals and communities around shared goals and causes. These organizations often provide a platform for like-minded individuals to come together, share information, coordinate actions, and build solidarity.
• Advocacy and Lobbying: Organizational activists engage in advocacy and lobbying efforts to influence public opinion, shape policies, and bring about legislative or institutional changes. They work towards advancing their causes by engaging with policymakers, organizing campaigns, and using various communication channels to amplify their messages and demands.
• Grassroots Empowerment: Organizational activism can empower grassroots communities by providing them with a collective voice and platform to address their concerns. These organizations often work closely with local communities, promoting participatory decision-making, and enabling marginalized groups to articulate their needs and rights.
• Expertise and Research: Many organizational activists possess expertise in specific areas, such as human rights, environmental conservation, labor rights, or gender equality. They conduct research, collect data, and provide evidence-based arguments to support their advocacy efforts.
• Accountability and Monitoring: Organizational activists often act as watchdogs, monitoring government policies, corporate practices, or social issues. Through their monitoring efforts, they contribute to transparency, accountability, and the promotion of ethical practices.
• Coalitions and Alliances: Organizational activism frequently involves building coalitions and alliances with other like-minded organizations, movements, or community groups. By forging partnerships and collaborative efforts, they can leverage collective strength, pool resources, and amplify their impact.
• Social Transformation and Change: Organizational activism aims to bring about social transformation and change by addressing systemic issues, challenging power structures, and advocating for justice and equality.

Conclusion

• The limitations of middle-class activism, as evidenced by the wrestler protests, underscore the need to move beyond superficial and celebrity-dependent models of civil society engagement. To transcend segmental loyalties and build a more inclusive and effective civil society, a democratic process of building durable, programmatic solidarities is essential. Only through such an approach can civil society activism truly address social issues and bring about meaningful change.

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