India: More Right Wing or More Left Wing?

India, a deeply religious and hierarchical society, finds itself navigated through a complex web of political ideologies. To determine whether the country leans more towards the right or the left, it's crucial to understand the social, economic, and historical circumstances that shape its political landscape.

The Current Political Climate

The current political climate in India is marked by a significant right-wing nationalism, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its associated Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) being at the forefront. However, the pulse of India's politics is not monolithic. The influence of left-wing politics, marked by parties like the Communist Party of India (CPI) and Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)), still persists, albeit in varying degrees.

The Right-Wing Influence

The right-wing ideology in India is characterized by its emphasis on traditional values, social hierarchy, and nationalistic fervor. This is further fueled by the legacy of the RSS, which drew inspiration from the fascist ideology of Mussolini and later merged with elements of Nazi ideology. The BJP, emerging from RSS, has solidified its stance as an extreme right-wing party, often prioritizing religious nationalism over social equality.

The Left-Wing Outlook

The left-wing politics in India promote social equality, egalitarianism, and a critique of social hierarchy. Left-wing movements in India have a long history, dating back to the British colonial era. Left-wing ideologies have been instrumental in movements such as the civil rights movement, women's rights, and the struggles against feudalism and imperialism.

Historical Context and Religious Riots

The history of India is riddled with instances of communal violence and religious riots, which have significantly shaped the political landscape. For instance, the 1857 Indian Mutiny, though initially against the British, was often framed in religious terms. The partition of Bengal in 1905 along religious lines, the Moplah Rebellion in 1921, and the 1984 anti-Sikh riots are just a few examples. These events highlight the persistent tensions between religious groups and the impact on political and social harmony.

Communal Violence and Religious Movements

From 2005 to 2009, an average of 130 people died annually due to communal violence, underscoring the ongoing challenges in maintaining communal harmony. As the country has evolved, the right-wing narrative, often intertwined with religious sentiments, has gained significant traction. This is evident in the political strategies of parties like the BJP, which have at times played on communal divides to gain electoral support.

Conclusion

While many Western countries have seen a shift towards left-wing ideologies, India's complex socio-political fabric remains a mix of right-wing and left-wing influences. The right-wing narrative is potent, driven by economic and social policies that cater to certain segments of the population. However, the left-wing movement continues to advocate for social justice and equality, reflecting a diverse and evolving political landscape.

As India evolves, it is essential to continue fostering dialogue and understanding between different political ideologies to ensure a more inclusive and harmonious society.