What is communalism? Discuss the process of its emergence in Indian society.

Communalism refers to the social, political, and cultural divisions based on religious identities, often leading to the promotion of one's own religious community at the expense of others. In the Indian context, it primarily manifests as Hindu-Muslim, Hindu-Sikh, Hindu-Christian, or inter-religious tensions.

The emergence of communalism in Indian society can be traced through historical, social, and political processes:

1. Colonial Legacy:
   The British colonial rule in India, employing the policy of 'divide and rule,' contributed significantly to the emergence of communalism. The British categorized Indians based on religious lines and implemented policies that accentuated religious differences, fostering a sense of separate communal identities.

2. Separate Electorates:
   The Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909 introduced separate electorates for different religious communities. This institutionalized religious divisions in politics, allowing each community to vote for candidates from their own religious group. The policy fueled religious identity-based politics and weakened the potential for a unified, secular political landscape.

3. Partition of Bengal (1905):
   The controversial partition of Bengal in 1905 by Lord Curzon was seen as a deliberate attempt to create divisions between Hindus and Muslims. The reorganization along religious lines intensified communal tensions, leading to protests and reinforcing communal identities.

4. Khilafat Movement (1919-1924):
   The Khilafat Movement, initiated by Indian Muslims in support of the Ottoman Caliphate, witnessed collaboration between Hindus and Muslims against British policies. However, it also laid the groundwork for communal politics, as religious identities were increasingly politicized during this period.

5. The Communal Award (1932):
   The Communal Award proposed by British Prime Minister Ramsay MacDonald further exacerbated communal tensions by providing separate electorates for Dalits, creating divisions within the Hindu community. This policy solidified the idea that political representation should be based on religious identities.

6. Direct Action Day (1946):
   On August 16, 1946, the Muslim League observed Direct Action Day, leading to communal riots and violence, particularly in Calcutta. This event marked a critical juncture in the communal divide, fueling distrust and animosity between Hindus and Muslims and hastening the process of partition.

7. Partition of India (1947):
   The partition of India into India and Pakistan in 1947 was a direct consequence of communal tensions. The demand for a separate Muslim state resulted in large-scale migration, communal violence, and the displacement of millions based on religious lines.

In summary, communalism in India emerged through a complex interplay of historical events, colonial policies, and social dynamics that accentuated religious identities. The legacies of these processes continue to shape the communal landscape in contemporary India, highlighting the ongoing challenges associated with communal tensions and fostering a need for inter-community harmony and understanding.