what is communalism

In the modern world, we often hear the term “communalism” in news debates, political speeches, and social discussions. It is a word that stirs strong emotions and often points to divisions in society. But what exactly is communalism? Where does it come from? Why does it remain such a persistent issue in many countries — especially in a diverse society like India?

In this blog, we’ll explore the meaning, nature, causes, and consequences of communalism, along with examples and possible ways to overcome it.

Understanding the Meaning of Communalism

The word communalism is derived from the word community. A community refers to a group of people who share common characteristics — such as religion, ethnicity, language, or culture. Communalism, however, is not about unity within a community, but rather the division between communities.

At its core, communalism is an ideology that places the interests of one religious or ethnic community above those of others, often resulting in tension, hatred, and conflict between groups. It is the belief that one’s own community is superior and that others are rivals or threats.

In simpler terms, communalism can be defined as the loyalty to one’s own religious community rather than to society or nation as a whole.

Academic and Political Definitions

Different scholars and thinkers have offered nuanced definitions of communalism.

Bipan Chandra, a prominent Indian historian, defined communalism as:

“Communalism is the belief that people who follow the same religion have common social, political, and economic interests.”
According to Oxford Dictionary, communalism refers to:

“The principle or practice of living together in a community, or strong allegiance to one’s own ethnic or religious group rather than to society as a whole.”

In political science, communalism is often viewed as a political ideology that seeks to mobilize people on religious lines, using faith as a tool to gain or retain power.

Types of Communalism

Communalism can take many forms depending on the context and the intensity of the divisions. The following are some common types:

a. Cultural Communalism

This form focuses on cultural differences among communities — such as rituals, food habits, dress, or festivals — and treats them as grounds for separation or superiority.

b. Political Communalism

In this form, religious or communal identities are used for political mobilization. Political leaders appeal to voters not as citizens but as members of religious groups, creating divisions to secure votes.

c. Economic Communalism

Sometimes economic competition between groups is framed in communal terms — for instance, when one group is accused of monopolizing trade or employment opportunities.

This involves social discrimination and exclusion based on communal identity, often manifesting in residential segregation, unequal access to resources, or inter-group prejudices.

e. Violent Communalism

When communal hatred takes an extreme form, it leads to riots, lynching, and large-scale violence, resulting in loss of lives and property.

Communalism in Historical Context

Communalism as an ideology did not exist in its present form in ancient or medieval India. For centuries, people of different faiths coexisted, intermingled, and shared traditions. However, over time, political and colonial developments sowed seeds of division.

a. Pre-Colonial Period

Before colonial rule, religion was an important aspect of identity, but not necessarily a political tool. Kings and rulers often had subjects belonging to different religions, and social relations were more fluid.

b. Colonial Period

It was during British rule in India that communalism took a more organized and political form. The British adopted the policy of “divide and rule”, deliberately encouraging divisions between Hindus and Muslims to weaken national unity.

They introduced separate electorates for different communities through the Indian Councils Act of 1909 and later expanded such measures. By labeling people as “Hindus,” “Muslims,” or “Sikhs” in censuses, the British institutionalized religious identities.

Communal organizations such as the Muslim League (1906) and Hindu Mahasabha (1915) emerged in this backdrop. This culminated in the Partition of India in 1947, one of the most tragic results of communal politics, which led to the creation of India and Pakistan and caused the displacement and death of millions.

Causes of Communalism

Communalism is a complex phenomenon with multiple interlinked causes. Here are some of the major factors:

a. Historical Legacy

The communal divisions fostered during colonial times continue to influence modern politics and social attitudes. Historical grievances are often reinterpreted to justify present-day hostility.

b. Political Factors

Political parties sometimes exploit communal sentiments for electoral gain. By portraying themselves as defenders of a particular religion or community, they secure votes but deepen societal divides.

c. Economic Inequalities

When certain communities feel economically deprived compared to others, communal explanations — rather than structural or policy-based ones — often take root. Economic competition can thus take a religious form.

d. Lack of Education and Awareness

Ignorance and prejudice often fuel communal hatred. People who lack awareness of the shared history and contributions of different communities are more susceptible to extremist ideologies.

In recent years, social media has become a major platform for spreading hate speech, rumors, and misinformation. Viral messages that exaggerate or fabricate communal incidents can quickly inflame passions.

f. Religious Extremism

The rise of fundamentalist groups within different religions promotes intolerance and hatred. These groups often misinterpret religious texts to justify violence or exclusion.

g. Weak Law Enforcement

When the state fails to act decisively against hate crimes or communal violence, it creates a sense of impunity, encouraging further polarization.

Consequences of Communalism

The impact of communalism is far-reaching — not just socially and politically, but also psychologically and economically.

a. Threat to National Unity

Communalism undermines the idea of a unified nation. When people identify primarily with their religious community, it weakens the sense of belonging to the nation as a whole.

b. Communal Violence

Riots, mob lynching, and targeted killings often result from communal hatred. Such incidents lead to the loss of lives, destruction of property, and long-term trauma for affected communities.

c. Political Instability

Communal politics can destabilize governments, create mistrust in democratic institutions, and hinder effective governance.

d. Economic Disruption

During communal riots, markets shut down, trade suffers, and investors lose confidence. The fear and displacement caused by violence affect livelihoods for years.

e. Psychological Division

Perhaps the most dangerous consequence is the psychological divide — when citizens start seeing each other as “us” versus “them.” This mistrust corrodes the social fabric and breeds intolerance.

Communalism in the Indian Context

India, being home to multiple religions — Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism, and others — is particularly vulnerable to communal tensions. Despite its constitutional promise of secularism, the country has witnessed periodic communal clashes.

Major Communal Riots in India (Post-Independence)

Jabalpur Riots (1961)
Ahmedabad Riots (1969)
Moradabad Riots (1980)
Delhi Anti-Sikh Riots (1984)
Bhagalpur Riots (1989)
Mumbai Riots (1992-93) following the demolition of the Babri Masjid
Gujarat Riots (2002)

Each of these incidents left deep scars on India’s social fabric, highlighting the dangers of politicizing religion.

However, it’s important to note that India has also seen countless examples of communal harmony — where people of different faiths protect each other during riots, celebrate festivals together, and uphold peace despite provocation.

Communalism vs. Secularism

To understand communalism better, it’s useful to contrast it with secularism.

Communalism divides people based on religion and promotes exclusivity.
Secularism, on the other hand, unites people by ensuring that the state treats all religions equally and does not favor or discriminate against any.

The Indian Constitution enshrines secularism as a core value. Articles 25 to 28 guarantee freedom of religion, while Article 15 prohibits discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.

Secularism is thus seen as the antidote to communalism — fostering an environment of respect, equality, and peaceful coexistence.

Combating Communalism: The Way Forward

Eradicating communalism is not easy, but it is possible through collective effort, awareness, and firm political will. Here are some strategies to counter communalism:

a. Promoting Education and Awareness

Education is the strongest weapon against prejudice. Curriculum at all levels should emphasize values of tolerance, pluralism, and mutual respect. Teaching history in a balanced and inclusive way can prevent the spread of communal myths.

b. Strong Legal Framework

Strict laws against hate speech, incitement, and communal violence must be effectively implemented. Fast-track courts should handle communal crimes to ensure timely justice.

c. Responsible Media

Media has immense power to shape public perception. Ethical journalism that reports facts objectively and avoids sensationalism is essential for maintaining harmony.

d. Political Accountability

Political parties must be held accountable for promoting communal agendas. Electoral reforms and vigilance by the Election Commission can help reduce the politicization of religion.

e. Inter-Community Dialogue

Regular interaction between communities through cultural exchanges, peace committees, and joint celebrations can build trust and reduce stereotypes.

f. Role of Civil Society

NGOs, community leaders, and citizens can play a major role in spreading awareness, mediating conflicts, and providing relief during communal crises.

Conclusion

Communalism is not just a political problem — it’s a social and psychological disease that corrodes the very foundation of a diverse and democratic society. It feeds on fear, ignorance, and hatred, turning neighbors into enemies and faith into a weapon.

Yet, the cure lies within us. By promoting empathy, education, and equality, and by refusing to be divided along religious lines, societies can overcome communalism. As Mahatma Gandhi once said,

“Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and the test of our civilization.”

To truly defeat communalism, every individual must rise above narrow identities and embrace the larger human identity — where religion is a source of spiritual guidance, not social division.

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what is communalism

Understanding the Meaning of Communalism

Academic and Political Definitions