Caste Dynamics Shape Success of India’s Engineers in Silicon Valley

Engineers and advocates from the most marginalized castes argue that technology companies often lack awareness and understanding of caste-based discrimination. Despite growing concern about this issue, many tech firms have not taken clear steps to ban discrimination rooted in caste systems, particularly that of South Asian origin.

These engineers report experiencing bias in hiring, workplace treatment, and promotions. Advocates say that without explicit policies addressing caste, companies leave room for subtle and unchecked discrimination to thrive. While global corporations have recently devoted more resources to diversity, equity, and inclusion, caste remains an overlooked area.

Some workers from lower-caste backgrounds feel hesitant to disclose their identities at work, fearing backlash or career consequences. They urge tech companies to recognize caste as a distinct category of bias and to implement training, complaint systems, and policy changes specifically aimed at preventing caste-based exclusion.

Supporters of such changes say tech firms have a responsibility to protect all workers and create inclusive environments, especially in industries employing many people from South Asia, where caste continues to influence social dynamics.

caste discrimination, tech industry, workplace bias, diversity and inclusion, marginalized communities