UPSC Mains Answer: Communalism arises either due to power struggle or relative deprivation.' Argue by giving suitable illustrations. (Answer in 250 words)

Difficulty Level: Medium

Pre-requisite: Understanding of colonial India's socio-political landscape (1858-1947), including British administrative policies like 'divide and rule,' the evolution of communal politics, and post-independence challenges of nation-building in a pluralistic society. Fa

Sub-category: Society (Indian Society: Diversity, Communalism, Regionalism)

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Communalism, a divisive force in Indian society, often stems from power struggles or relative deprivation, both of which fuel inter-group tensions and identity-based conflicts. These twin catalysts can be understood through historical and contemporary illustrations, revealing their destructive potential in a pluralistic nation like India.
The power struggle as a driver of communalism is evident in the colonial era, where the British policy of 'divide and rule' exacerbated Hindu-Muslim divisions. By institutionalizing separate electorates through the Morley-Minto Reforms (1909) and later the Government of India Act (1935), the British entrenched communal identities in politics. This created a competitive dynamic for political dominance, culminating in the tragic Partition of 1947. Even post-independence, political parties have occasionally exploited communal sentiments to consolidate vote banks, as seen in the Ayodhya dispute or the 2002 Gujarat riots, where power dynamics inflamed communal passions.
Relative deprivation, on the other hand, arises when a community perceives itself as economically or socially marginalized compared to others. This sense of injustice can manifest in communal violence, as witnessed during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots or the 2013 Muzaffarnagar clashes. In these instances, economic disparities, lack of representation, or perceived favoritism toward another group created a fertile ground for communal mobilization. The Sachar Committee Report (2006) highlighted the socio-economic backwardness of Muslims, which, if unaddressed, can deepen feelings of relative deprivation and fuel communalism.
To mitigate communalism, India must adopt inclusive policies that address economic disparities, promote interfaith dialogue, and ensure equitable political representation. Strengthening secular institutions and fostering a shared national identity are critical to transcending communal divides and building a harmonious society.