COMMUNALISM
Definition: Communalism refers to a belief system that emphasizes the distinct identity of a community based on religion, ethnicity, or other social factors. It often involves promoting the interests of one community over others, leading to social divisions and conflicts. Communalism can lead to mutual distrust, hostility, and, in extreme cases, violence between different religious or ethnic groups.
Concept: At its core, communalism is about prioritizing the communal identity over the broader national identity. It can manifest in various forms, from mild preference for one’s community to extreme actions like violence and discrimination against other communities. Communalism thrives on the perception of inter-community differences and conflicts, often fuelled by political, social, and economic factors. It is also characterized by the manipulation of religious sentiments for political gains, fostering a sense of communal solidarity against perceived external threats.
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Aspect |
Communalism |
Secularism |
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Focus |
Emphasizes the interests and identity of a specific community, often at the expense of others. It fosters a sense of us versus them and can lead to social division and conflict. |
Emphasizes the separation of religion from the state and promotes equal treatment of all religions. It advocates for a neutral state that does not favour or discriminate against any religion. |
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Impact |
Can lead to social disharmony, violence, and discrimination. Communalism undermines national unity and can weaken the fabric of a diverse society. It often results in ghettoization, where communities live in segregated enclaves, increasing mistrust and isolation. |
Promotes social harmony, tolerance, and unity in a diverse society. Secularism supports the idea of equal citizenship regardless of religious or communal affiliations. It fosters an inclusive environment where diverse communities can coexist peacefully. |
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Political Use |
Often used as a political tool to mobilize support based on religious or communal identities, leading to vote-bank politics and polarization. Political parties and leaders may exploit communal sentiments to garner votes, leading to short-term gains but long-term societal harm. |
Encourages policies and governance that uphold the principles of equality, justice, and non-discrimination. It aims to protect individual rights and freedoms irrespective of religious identity. Secularism promotes policies that ensure religious freedom and prevent religious interference in state affairs. |