Social Contract and Identity Politics in Nepal: A Sociological Analysis

Abstract

This study presents the relationship between social contract and identity politics in Nepal from a sociological perspective. Although the social contract has traditionally been understood as an agreement between the state and citizens, in the Nepali context, this process has historically been affected by unequal power structures, social exclusion and limited participation. The study shows that identity politics is not a breakdown of the contract, but a collective response to its incompleteness and inequality, as long-excluded communities on the basis of caste, class, gender, language and region redefine their relationship with the state. Although a qualitative method was adopted in the research, all sources were drawn from secondary sources, including articles published in journals, books, government documents and reports. Although the Constitution of Nepal 2072 and the federal structure are analyzed as formal attempts at a new social contract, the limitations in its social acceptance and practical implementation show that identity politics has been continuously active. Additionally, weak trust in the state, unequal service delivery and impunity have been found to undermine the moral basis of the social contract. Ultimately, the study concludes that sustainable democratic sustainability in Nepal depends on rebuilding the social contract, which is only possible through the acceptance of multiple identities, equal opportunities and the restoration of trust between citizens and the state.