The caste system in India is a deeply rooted social system that has historically organized people into hierarchical and hereditary social groups. Although caste is not identical to gender-based violence, it has a strong relationship with gender because caste-based social control often regulates women’s sexuality, marriage, mobility, labour, and access to resources. Thus, understanding caste is important for analysing the ways in which gender-based violence occurs in Indian society. Traditionally, the caste system was associated with the four broad varnas—Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Shudras—while communities historically excluded from the varna structure were subjected to practices of untouchability and severe discrimination. In actual social life, caste operates through numerous jatis or birth-based communities. Membership is generally determined by birth, and traditional caste practices have included occupational restrictions, social hierarchy, endogamy, and rules concerning food and social interaction. Caste has historically been maintained through strict control over marriage. Endogamy, or marriage within one's