Politicians continue to exploit social divisions for electoral gains, while foreign forces seek to undermine India’s unity

The legacy of British colonialism in India remains a contentious issue, with far-reaching consequences that continue to impact the country’s social fabric. In the contemporary context, this can be seen in the practice of politics by the opposition parties, particularly the Indian National Congress (INC).

The colonial era strategically exploited India’s inherent social and cultural diversities, creating fault lines that persist today. These divisions, crafted to serve the interests of the British Empire, have become entrenched in India’s societal landscape, posing a significant challenge to national unity.Post-1857, British authorities, scholars, and missionaries collaborated to divide Dalits, tribals and Muslims from the Hindu community. This agenda leveraged scholars and missionaries to separate Dalits and tribals through conversion and social manipulation, as detailed in Arun Shourie’s seminal work, “Missionaries in India.”

By creating artificial distinctions and fueling social conflict, the British successfully fostered alliances and divisions that endured long after independence. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently highlighted Congress’s departure from its founding principles, embracing leftist ideologies instead. Modi cited Congress’s original stance on issues like Swadeshi, Swavalamban, and Panchayat Raj, and Mahatma Gandhi’s opposition to religious conversion and cow slaughter.

Gandhi’s post-1920 emphasis on eradicating untouchability, casteism, alcoholism, and women’s oppression, and promoting national unity, has given way to divisive rhetoric. Congress’s current leadership, exemplified by Rahul Gandhi, has strayed from these ideals.

Gandhi’s recent US visit sparked controversy, as he claimed Sikhs face identity crises in India, despite no evidence. His comments fueled separatist sentiments among Khalistani supporters, echoing the tactics employed by British colonialists.

Meanwhile, in Sikh communities, Max Arthur Macauliffe sowed seeds of separation, as detailed in Khushwant Singh’s “The Sikh Gurus, Sacred Writings and Authors.” These foreign interventions fabricated logic, distorted literature, and spread misinformation to execute their divide-and-rule policy.

Gandhi’s stance resonates with the British-era concept that India is not a nation but a union of states. This contradicts the ancient Indian ethos, affirming India’s nationhood. The Vedas proclaim, “Vayam Rashtra Jagryam Purahitah” (We are the guardians of the nation). Even former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru’s wish to have his ashes immersed in the Ganges reflects his devotion to Mother India. The British exploited these divisions, nurturing enduring fault lines evident in the Direct Action orchestrated by the Muslim League, resulting in the brutal massacre of 16,000 Hindus in Calcutta alone.

Notable figures like Jaipal Singh Munda and Jogendra Nath Mandal eventually broke away from the Muslim League, recognising the sinister intentions. Mandal resigned from the Pakistan government and returned to India, highlighting the atrocities faced by Dalits and tribals.

Today, India must recognise and learn from this history, acknowledging the artificial divisions created by British colonialism and guarding against similar tactics employed by contemporary forces seeking to exploit these fault lines for political gain. Citizens and political parties must remain vigilant, prioritising national unity over sectarian interests.

The 1946 Jharkhand, Chota Nagpur Pakistan Conference and Jogendra Nath Mandal’s alliance with the Muslim League exemplified this strategy. British authorities fueled fears among Dalits and tribals, claiming the “Hindu Raj” would oppress them. This manipulation ignored the historical social cohesion and shared struggles of India’s diverse communities.

Mahatma Gandhi’s vision for a unified India contrasts sharply with the divisive agenda of some contemporary politicians, who seek to resurrect the British-era fault lines. Gandhi’s emphasis on eradicating social evils and promoting national unity has given way to identity politics and vote bank manipulation.

India’s democratic fabric demands that citizens and leaders recognise and resist these divisive forces, promoting national unity and social cohesion. The country must acknowledge its complex history and address the lingering consequences of colonialism. By doing so, India can overcome the artificial divisions imposed upon it and forge a path toward true unity and progress.

Despite progress, India faces significant challenges in overcoming the legacy of colonialism. Politicians continue to exploit social divisions for electoral gains, while foreign forces seek to undermine India’s unity. The rise of social media has amplified divisive rhetoric, making it easier to spread misinformation and fuel tensions. The divisive legacy of British colonialism remains a pressing concern for India. By acknowledging this history and resisting divisive forces, India can build a more unified future. Citizens must prioritise national interests over sectarian agendas, and leaders must work toward inclusive governance.

(The writer is National Joint General Secretary, Organisation BJP; views are personal)