Communalism is a major social and political problem of India which threatens the fabric of Indian democracy.
The eight remedial steps for meeting the evils of communalism are as follows :
Communalism breeds in the minds of people. Hence, the values and orientations of people have to be changed through well-designed education system. People have to inculcate the values of brotherhood and social harmony.
Media and other forms of modern communication should be used to generate awareness among people about the dangers of communalism and importance of communal harmony and social equality of people of all religions.
Poverty and economic backwardness are the breeding grounds for communalism. Hence, the government should undertake vigorous social and economic welfare programmes to ensure social and economic progress of all.
Legal provisions against communal practices should be strengthened. The communal organisations and associations of all forms should be banned. The political leaders mobilizing support on religious lines should be punished.
Special anti-riots police force having people from all communities should be organised on national basis. Such forces can be more effective in the situation of communal riots.
The Muslims in India lack a viable middle class status due to lack of education and economic development. By education and economic progress, an enlightened middle class should be strengthened among minorities.
Concrete steps should be taken to prevent the use of religious places for preaching communalism.
Foreign intervention should be carefully watched and presented from encouraging communalism in India.
