Indian politics has long been shaped by religious and caste dynamics, a phenomenon rooted in the country's historical, cultural, and social fabric.
Indian politics has long been shaped by religious and caste dynamics, a phenomenon rooted in the country's historical, cultural, and social fabric. These factors continue to dominate the political landscape, often overshadowing issues of development and public welfare. This reliance on identity-based politics stems from a combination of colonial legacies, socio-economic inequalities, and the electoral benefits politicians derive from such tactics. Religious Politics in India 1. Historical Context: Religion has played a significant role in India’s political journey, dating back to the colonial era. The British policy of "divide and rule" sowed divisions between communities, particularly Hindus and Muslims, which were further entrenched during the Partition of India in 1947. Post-independence, while the Constitution established secularism as a guiding principle, political parties often exploited religious sentiments for electoral gains. 2. Polarization Strategies: Politicia...