Communalism arises either due to power struggle or relative deprivation. Argue by giving suitable illustrations.

Introduction

Communalism, in the Indian context, refers to the allegiance to one's own religious community over national or societal interests, often leading to conflict. It arises from various socio-political and economic factors, with power struggles and relative deprivation being two significant drivers. Historical and contemporary examples illustrate how these factors fuel communal tensions.

Key Dimensions of Communalism

Communalism Due to Power Struggle

1. Political Mobilization

• Explanation: Political leaders often exploit religious identities to consolidate vote banks, leading to communal polarization.
• Illustration: The Partition of India (1947) was driven by political power struggles between the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League, resulting in communal violence.
• Contemporary Example: Communal rhetoric during elections, such as the Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi dispute, has been used to mobilize communities for political gains.

2. Economic Competition

• Explanation: Competition for resources, jobs, and economic opportunities between communities can lead to communal tensions.
• Illustration: The anti-Sikh riots of 1984 were partly fueled by economic rivalries, as Sikhs were perceived to dominate certain industries in Delhi.
• Contemporary Example: The Muzzafarnagar riots (2013) in Uttar Pradesh were linked to land disputes and economic competition between Jats and Muslims.

Communalism Due to Relative Deprivation

1. Perceived Inequality

• Explanation: When a community perceives itself as being unfairly treated or excluded from socio-economic benefits, it can lead to resentment and communalism.
• Illustration: The Moradabad riots (1980) were triggered by the Muslim community's perception of police inaction and systemic neglect.
• Contemporary Example: The CAA-NRC protests (2019-20) saw communal undertones, as certain groups felt excluded from the citizenship framework.

2. Marginalization

• Explanation: Historical or systemic marginalization of a community can create a sense of alienation, fostering communal tensions.
• Illustration: The Bhagalpur riots (1989) were fueled by the economic and social marginalization of Muslims in the region.
• Contemporary Example: The Northeast India ethnic clashes, where tribal communities feel sidelined in resource allocation, often take on communal overtones.

Interplay of Power Struggle and Relative Deprivation

• Explanation: Often, power struggles and relative deprivation are interlinked, creating a vicious cycle of communalism.
• Illustration: The Gujarat riots (2002) were a result of both political mobilization and the economic marginalization of Muslims, exacerbated by historical grievances.

Way Forward

• Promoting Inclusive Development: Addressing economic disparities through targeted welfare schemes like PM Jan Dhan Yojana and Skill India Mission.
• Strengthening Secularism: Enforcing constitutional provisions like Article 15 and Article 25 to ensure equality and religious freedom.
• Civic Education: Promoting interfaith harmony through education and awareness campaigns, such as Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.
• Accountability in Politics: Strict action against hate speech and communal rhetoric under laws like Section 153A of IPC.

Conclusion

Communalism, whether driven by power struggles or relative deprivation, undermines India's pluralistic fabric. Addressing its root causes through inclusive policies, secular governance, and civic engagement is essential to foster harmony and uphold the constitutional vision of unity in diversity.