SS

Saurabh SharmaAIR 146

Question 9GS1GS1

Examine the role of historical and socio-political factors in driving communalism in Indian politics. (Answer in 150 words)

Open scan (p.22)

Introduction

As per Bipan Chandra, communalism refers to instrumentalisation of religious identities for political purposes.

14 words

Main Body

As per Bipan Chandra, communalism refers to instrumentalisation of religious identities for political purposes.

Historic factors:

1Colonial Rule - Divide and Rule Policy of colonial government
2Separate electorates - introduced by Morley-Minto Reforms 1909 sowed the seeds of communalism
3Rise of Religious Revivalism - All India muslim league, Hindu Mahasabha
4Partition - left deep scars of religious animosity

Socio-political factors:

1Growth of identity politics due to religious mobilisation (e.g. Ram mandir issue movement)
2Appeasement politics (e.g. Renewal of Shah Bano verdict 1986)
3Vote bank politics of polarization - rise in hate speeches & religious mobilisation in election
4Reclamation of places of worship (e.g. Gyanvapi mosque)
5Inequitable growth & minority discrimination → Allelled by Sachar Committee (2006)

Addressing communalism requires commitment to secularism & universal toleration - VI Vekaraud

137 words4 paragraphs

Topper

Saurabh Sharma

AIR 146

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Effects of Globalization on Indian society. Social Empowerment, Communalism, Regionalism & Secularism

Communalism

Historical and socio-political factors in communalism

Writing Stats

151

Total words

4

Paragraphs

analytical and critical

Tone