How is casteism harmful to democratic …

Casteism is very harmful to politics because it damages democratic ideals.

1. Casteism violates the basic principles enshrined in the Constitution for promoting a new democratic polity, namely, the principles of justice, equality and above all fraternity assuring the unity and integrity of the Nation.
2. Due to casteism, vote bank politics is given preference in India. The economic issues are pushed to the background by leaders who seek support on the basis of caste.
3. There is an overemphasis on caste interest loyalty rather than national interest.
4. Casteism weakens the mechanization of the polity.
5. The government, at the local levels, seeks to retain the traditional domination of the dominant castes, thus, frustrating the emergence of a new democratic culture of free and equal citizenship.
6. Casteism leads to chaos and bargaining in party politics and ministry formation. 
7. Due to casteism, people get divided into various groups and consequently differences crop up which destroy the unity of nation.
8. Casteism leads to violence and polarisation on caste lines. Casteism creates tension, suspicion, fear and an atmosphere of violence by building militancy on caste lines.
   Hence, it is very harmful to democracy and the country as well.