Nelaturu Sreekanth ReddyAIR 151 · CSE 2024 · 172 wordsTheir whole copy
Opening · a definition
Identity politics is politics based on particular identities such as caste, religion, race, ethnicity, region without considering the overall empowerment of society.
Body · points
Identity politics as a divisive force
→ According to Rajni Kothari, caste based politics lead to conflicts in the society. [Ex: Temple entry conflicts in Tamil Nadu. → Religion based politics has created mistrust among various religions. [Ex: Gujarat Riots, Delhi riots. → Identity politics lead to fragmentation of the social groups. [Ex: British identity over European identity lead to Brexit. → Identity politics leads to exclusion of other social groups which can trigger new social movements.
[Ex: LGBTQ+ movements.
Identity politics as a unifying force
→ Identity politics brings people together who shares similar identity for their empowerment.
[Ex: Civil rights movement in U.S.A.
→ It provides voice to the marginalised [Castes].
[Ex: Bahujan Samaj Party.
→ Strengthens group identity and solidarity.
Close · a summary
[Ex: Regionalism in India.
The dual nature of identity politics suggests that its impact is not inherent, but shaped by the intentions behind its use.