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Communal tensions from "summary" of India's Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra,Mridula Mukherjee,Aditya Mukherjee,K N Panikkar,Sucheta Mahajan
Communal tensions have been a significant and recurring issue in India's struggle for independence. These tensions have primarily revolved around religious differences between Hindus and Muslims. The roots of these tensions can be traced back to the British policy of divide and rule, which sought to create divisions among various communities in order to maintain control over the country. The British colonial rulers exploited existing religious differences and stereotypes to further their own interests. They often favored one community over the other, creating a sense of competition and animosity between Hindus and Muslims. This manipulation of religious sentiments exacerbated existing tensions and sowed the seeds of discord between the two communities. The growth of communalism was also fueled by economic factors, as both communities competed for resources and opportunities in a colonial society marked by inequality and exploitation. This economic competition further deepened religious divides and led to communal violence and conflict. The rise of communalism had significant consequences for the national movement for independence. It divided the Indian population along religious lines and weakened the unity and solidarity of the struggle against colonial rule. Leaders of the national movement had to navigate these communal tensions carefully, seeking to bridge the divide between Hindus and Muslims and promote a united front against British imperialism. Despite efforts to promote communal harmony, communal tensions continued to erupt periodically, leading to violence and bloodshed. The Partition of India in 1947, which resulted in the creation of Pakistan as a separate Muslim-majority nation, was a tragic outcome of these deep-rooted communal tensions.- Communal tensions have been a persistent challenge in India's struggle for independence. These tensions have been fueled by a combination of historical, political, economic, and social factors, and have had far-reaching consequences for the country. Understanding the complex dynamics of communalism is essential for addressing these tensions and building a more inclusive and harmonious society in the post-independence era.
