Question

On account of which of the following identity markers, do people often face discrimination and exclusion?
(A) Gender
(B) Ethnicity
(C)
Disability
(D) Caste
Choose the correct answer from the options given below :

• A. (A), (C) and (D) only
• B. (A), (B) and (D) only
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D)
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

People often face discrimination and exclusion on account of various identity markers that define social standings or categories. These identity markers can lead individuals to experience prejudice and unequal treatment within society. The key identity markers include: 

• Gender: Individuals may encounter bias based on gender roles, stereotypes, or expectations, leading to gender-based discrimination in various aspects of life such as employment, education, and social interactions.
• Ethnicity: Ethnic identity can lead to marginalization, bias, or prejudice based on ethnicity or cultural background, often resulting in exclusion from certain social, economic, or political opportunities.
• Disability: People with disabilities may face barriers and discrimination due to physical, sensory, or cognitive impairments, impacting their access to resources and social participation.
• Caste: In societies where caste systems exist, such as in parts of South Asia, discrimination based on caste can lead to enduring social hierarchies and exclusion, affecting education, employment, and inter-caste relations.

Given that all these identity markers can be sources of discrimination and exclusion, the correct option in the context of this question is: (A), (B), (C) and (D)

Answer 2

Statement A: True. The term "communal" indeed means something related to a community. It can refer to shared resources, common living spaces, or collective activities. In the context of communalism, it refers to the idea of a community based on shared religious or ethnic identities.

Statement B: False. Communalism is not just about religion; it is deeply intertwined with politics. Communalism often involves the use of religious or ethnic identities for political purposes, leading to social and political divisions. It can be a tool for mobilizing support, creating power blocs, or justifying discrimination and violence.

Statement C: True. A devout believer may or may not be communal. Being devout in one's religious beliefs does not necessarily mean that a person will engage in communalism, which involves using religious identity to create or exacerbate divisions. Devoutness is a personal matter of faith, while communalism is a social and political phenomenon.

Statement D: True. Communalism results in constructing the identity of large and diverse groups as singular and homogeneous. This simplification can lead to the overlooking of individual differences and the promotion of a singular identity based on religion or ethnicity. It can also lead to the marginalization of minority groups within the larger community.

Given these points, the correct statements about communalism are indeed (A), (C), and (D), making Option 3 the right choice. Discrimination occurs across multiple identity markers like gender, caste, ethnicity, and disability.