Social Divisions of any kind be it caste, religion, sex, region are characteristic features of every society. Democracy involves political competition among various political parties, it is but natural for parties to use these social divisions to expand their support base and come to power. However, such an expression of social divisions in politics may have positive or negative outcomes, It depends on how are they reflected in politics. For instance,
- Such an expression however can be a source of conflict and tension in a society where one group may be pit against another. Communal clashes can be seen in this context.
- Political parties often tend to exploit issues related to caste, religion for narrow political gains to be used as vote bank during elections.
However, Such an expression has allowed marginal and disadvantaged groups to ventilate their grievances with the support of political parties and have compelled government to be responsive to their needs. It has also ensured adequate representation to such diverse groups and due accommodation of their interests.
Democracy also involves competition among various groups to get their demands fulfilled. Making conflicting claims and voicing their concerns is the outcome of Democracy and how the democratic system responds to such conflicting claims is the challenge of Democracy. For Example, Telengana agitation, protests over reservation policy.