What is the term used to refer to aggressive chauvinism based on religious identity ?
(1) Regionalism
(2) Casteism
(3) Communalism
(4) Secularism
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Communalism
Option (3) Communalism — Correct. In everyday language, communalism refers to aggressive chauvinism based on religious identity. Chauvinism is an attitude that sees one’s own group as the only legitimate or worthy group and the others as inferior; so communalism is an aggressive political ideology linked to religion.
NCERT (2025-26): “Communalism … In everyday language, the word ‘communalism’ refers to aggressive chauvinism based on religious identity. Chauvinism itself is an attitude that sees one’s own group as the only legitimate or worthy group, with other groups being seen – by definition – as inferior, illegitimate and opposed. Thus, to simplify further, communalism is an aggressive political ideology linked to religion.…” “Secularism … So, a secular person or state is one that does not favour any particular religion over others. Secularism in this sense is the opposite of religious chauvinism and it need not necessarily imply hostility to religion as such.…” “6.2 Regionalism in the Indian Context … Regionalism in India is rooted in India’s diversity of languages, cultures, tribes, and religions. It is also encouraged by the geographical concentration of these identity markers in particular regions, and fuelled by a sense of regional deprivation.…” |