In Jainism, there is no caste system in principle.

1. What Jain Dharma teaches

According to Jain philosophy:

• All souls (jīvas) are absolutely equal.
• A soul’s status depends only on its own karma and efforts (purushārth), not on birth, family, color, gender, or community.
• No Jain scripture teaches that someone is “higher” or “lower” by birth.

So, from the real Jain dharma point of view, caste has no place.

2. Then why do we hear about “caste” among Jains?

In society, especially in India, many Jains:

• Use community names (like Oswal, Shrimal, Porwal, etc.)
• Sometimes follow marriage within their own group
• Sometimes behave in “caste-like” ways

But this is social and cultural, not scriptural.

• It came from mixing with the wider Indian society over time.
• Jain Āgams and Jain Āchāryas do not support discrimination based on caste.

3. Jains and untouchability

• Untouchability is completely against Jain principles.
• Every jīva is worthy of compassion (dayā) and friendship (maitrī).
• A person’s conduct (charitra) matters, not their birth.

4. Monks and caste

• In both Digambar and Shvetambar traditions,

anyone from any background can take dīkshā (become a monk/nun) if they are qualified.

• Their previous “caste” has no importance once they accept monkhood.

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So, to answer simply:

• Jainism as a religion does not accept caste.
• Any caste-like divisions among Jains today are social habits, not true Jain dharma.