Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Communalism, in the Indian context, refers to a political ideology and social attitude that emphasizes religious, caste, or linguistic identities over national identity, often leading to tensions and conflicts. While often attributed to historical factors, its resurgence in contemporary India can be largely understood through the lens of power dynamics and perceived inequalities. The assertion that communalism arises either due to power struggle or relative deprivation holds significant weight, as these two factors frequently act as catalysts for communal mobilization and violence. This answer will explore these two drivers, providing suitable illustrations to demonstrate their relevance.
Communalism as a Result of Power Struggle
The struggle for power, particularly in a diverse society like India, often manifests along communal lines. Political actors may exploit existing communal identities to mobilize support, consolidate power, or divert attention from other pressing issues. This is particularly evident during elections or periods of political instability.
- Partition of India (1947): The British ‘Divide and Rule’ policy exacerbated communal tensions between Hindus and Muslims, culminating in the partition. The struggle for political dominance between the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League fueled communal polarization and ultimately led to the tragic partition.
- Ayodhya Dispute (1990s): The Ram Janmabhoomi movement was strategically utilized by certain political groups to consolidate Hindu votes and gain political power. The dispute, while rooted in religious sentiments, became a potent tool for political mobilization.
- Contemporary Political Landscape: The competition for political representation and resources often sees parties appealing to specific communal constituencies, reinforcing identity-based politics.
Communalism as a Result of Relative Deprivation
Relative deprivation, the perception of being disadvantaged compared to others, can also fuel communalism. When a particular community feels marginalized, discriminated against, or denied equal opportunities, it can lead to resentment and a sense of injustice, which can be exploited by communal forces.
- Socio-Economic Disparities: Historically, certain communities have faced systemic discrimination in access to education, employment, and economic opportunities. This perceived deprivation can lead to feelings of alienation and resentment, making them susceptible to communal appeals. The Sachar Committee Report (2006) highlighted the socio-economic backwardness of Muslims in India, contributing to a sense of relative deprivation.
- Post-Babri Masjid Demolition Riots (1992-93): The demolition of the Babri Masjid and the subsequent riots were partly fueled by a sense of grievance and injustice among Muslims, who felt their religious sentiments were disregarded and their community was targeted.
- Reservation Policies: Debates surrounding reservation policies, particularly those based on religion, can exacerbate feelings of relative deprivation among communities who feel excluded or unfairly treated.
The Interplay of Power Struggle and Relative Deprivation
It is crucial to recognize that power struggle and relative deprivation are often intertwined. Power struggles can *create* or *exacerbate* relative deprivation, and perceptions of deprivation can be exploited to gain political power. For example, a political party might highlight the economic backwardness of a particular community to mobilize support and challenge the existing power structure.
| Factor | Mechanism | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Power Struggle | Exploitation of communal identities for political gain | Partition of India |
| Relative Deprivation | Perception of marginalization and injustice | Sachar Committee Report & Muslim grievances |
| Interplay | Using deprivation narratives to challenge power structures | Political mobilization based on economic backwardness of a community |
Furthermore, the role of external actors and the spread of misinformation through social media can amplify both power struggles and perceptions of relative deprivation, further fueling communal tensions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, communalism in India is a complex phenomenon deeply rooted in both power struggles and relative deprivation. While these factors can operate independently, they often reinforce each other, creating a volatile environment susceptible to communal mobilization. Addressing communalism requires a multi-pronged approach that tackles socio-economic inequalities, promotes inclusive governance, fosters inter-community dialogue, and counters the spread of misinformation. A sustained commitment to social justice, equitable development, and secular values is essential to mitigate the risks of communalism and build a harmonious society.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.