Question

Describe the meaning and characteristics of communalism.

Hint:

When defining communalism, it's crucial to state that it's a \textbf{political ideology}, not a religious one. It misuses religion for political ends.

Answer 1

Meaning:
Communalism is a political ideology that asserts that society is divided into distinct religious communities whose interests are different and often mutually hostile. It involves promoting the interests of one's own religious group aggressively, often at the expense of other groups, and using religion as a tool for political mobilization.
Characteristics:

Religious Chauvinism: It is based on an aggressive and intolerant devotion to one's own religion, coupled with a prejudice and hostility towards other religions.

Belief in Antagonistic Interests: A core characteristic is the belief that the social, economic, and political interests of different religious communities are incompatible and in conflict with one another.

Political Ideology: Communalism is fundamentally a political phenomenon. It uses religious identity to create political constituencies and to compete for political power.

Promotion of Stereotypes: It thrives on creating and propagating negative stereotypes, prejudices, and hatred against other religious communities to foster a sense of 'otherness'.

Use of Violence: In its extreme form, communalism often leads to communal riots, violence, and mass polarization to achieve its political goals.