Q: Analyse the nature of transition from ideology to identity politics in India.

Model Answer:

Transition from Ideology to Identity Politics in India

India’s political landscape has shifted from ideology-driven to identity-based politics, reflecting deep social transformations and changing societal dynamics.

Post-independence, politics centered on ideologies like nationalism, socialism, and secularism. The Congress party, guided by Nehruvian socialism, aimed for industrial growth and a secular nation. Over time, these ideologies failed to address specific group grievances, leading to the rise of identity politics based on caste, religion, and region.

Factors Driving the Shift

– Caste Mobilization
M.N. Srinivas’s concept of the ‘Dominant Caste’ explains how certain castes leverage socio-economic power politically. The emergence of leaders like Mayawati and parties like the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) reflects the assertion of Dalit identity.

– Modernization and Subaltern Assertion
Yogendra Singh’s ‘Modernization of Indian Tradition’ suggests that modernization enables marginalized groups to assert their identities. This is evident in the increased political participation of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) after the Mandal Commission’s implementation.

– Regional and Linguistic Identities
G.S. Ghurye highlighted the significance of regional identities. The rise of regional parties like the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in Andhra Pradesh underscores how linguistic and regional aspirations influence national politics.

– Disillusionment with Ideological Parties
D.P. Mukerji emphasized understanding Indian society through indigenous perspectives. The inability of ideological parties to address local issues led groups to seek representation through identity politics.

Nature of Identity Politics

– Caste-Based Politics
Political mobilization around caste solidified post-Mandal Commission. Increased representation of OBCs and Dalits reshaped electoral dynamics, institutionalizing caste in politics.

– Religious Identity
The rise of Hindutva ideology and events like the Ram Janmabhoomi movement signify religion’s role in politics, impacting secularism debates.

– Regional Aspirations
The creation of new states like Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh highlights the political significance of regional identities and demands for autonomy.

Implications
While identity politics empowers marginalized communities and ensures their representation, it can exacerbate social divisions and communal tensions. Andre Béteille cautions that when caste and class inequalities overlap, they reinforce social stratification. Excessive focus on narrow identities may undermine national unity and hinder common developmental goals, as warned by Yogendra Singh. This necessitates policies balancing group identities with inclusive nation-building.

Conclusion:
India’s shift from ideology to identity politics embodies complex social changes, requiring a balance between diverse identities and cohesive national development.