The caste system is a form of social stratification that is hierarchical in nature and is based on the notions of purity and pollution. It is an institutionalized system of “domination and exclusion” that structures opportunities and outcomes. In India, there is a clear dichotomy in how the caste system is practised in rural areas vis-à-vis urban areas. In cities, where caste is not the fundamental basis of distinction, there is greater mobility and choice, whereas, in rural regions, caste forms the basis of hierarchy and segregation when it comes to occupation, social networking, etc. In this context, despite the fact that urban areas have contributed more towards social transformation based on reduction in caste-based differences and discrimination, caste inequities still exist and manifest in different forms. This is reflected from the following:

• Employment: According to an NSSO survey, caste and religion continue to play a key role in recruitment in urban areas. For instance, Scheduled Castes are employed for fewer number of days as compared to upper castes.
• Housing or rental accommodation: Screening by landlords and often times the reluctance of upper caste landlords prevents lower castes from accessing desirable housing regardless of their ability to pay.
• Educational opportunities: There is discrimination in seating arrangements in classrooms and also while serving mid-day meals. Lower caste students are segregated and made to sit at different places from the upper caste students.
• Social networks: People mostly socialise within their caste group and there are several caste group associations Marriage prospects in cities, which result in strengthening caste hierarchies.
• Marriage prospects : Although inter-caste marriages in urban areas have increased, caste is still an important determinant of marital alliance. Even on matrimonial websites, people opt for partners who belong to their caste group.
• Issues of urban migrants: Caste hierarchies and identities experienced by migrants do not disappear within cities, but are rather reorganized and reproduced as new collective identities emerge along reformulated caste lines, which are unique to the urban context.

While some extreme indignities related to caste may be less prevalent in cities, caste-based discrimination continues, often taking on new forms. Caste transforms, and in turn is transformed by life in the city.