communalism

Communalism is a social and political ideology that emphasizes the primacy of community identity—often based on religion or ethnicity—in organizing society and politics. The term derives from communal, related to common or shared life; in political discourse it refers to mobilization of people along communal lines to pursue collective goals.

In sociology, communalism can describe strong social cohesion within a group and the corresponding boundaries with other groups. This can promote solidarity and mutual aid, but can also lead to exclusivist attitudes and segregation.

In political science and in certain national contexts, particularly in South Asia, communalism denotes an ideology or practice that places the interests of a religious, ethnic, or linguistic community above those of the state or universal civic values; it is often linked to electoral mobilization, identity politics, and sometimes hostilities across communities.

Historically, the term gained prominence with rising religious political mobilization in colonial India, the creation of separate electorates, and the "communal award" of 1932, followed by Partition. Since independence, debates on secularism and minority rights have shaped responses to communalism, influencing policy and public discourse.

Critics argue that communalism undermines pluralism and equal citizenship by privileging group identities; proponents may view it as necessary for minority protection or cultural preservation. Approaches to counteract negative effects include secular constitutional guarantees, inclusive institutions, intercommunal dialogue, and education promoting shared citizenship.