Other backward classes refer to the administrative category and are social communities other than SC and ST who suffer from educational and social backwardness. These communities were primarily supporter of Congress but with time grew dis-illusioned with the Congress. They believed their interests were not being served by the Congress. 1970s onward, caste based politics began to rise and gave rise to political leaders from OBC communities. These leaders further formed social and political parties and started to rise in support from these communities especially in State politics. The Mandal agitation gave rise to electoral consolidation of OBC vote bank and government was formed in Indian States either with the support from OBC leaders and communities. The political rise of Other Backward Classes was also connected to the increase in regional aspirations in States’ politics.
