1. Religion as a Determinant of Voting Behaviour

Meaning

Religion refers to a system of beliefs and practices.
In a multi-religious society like India, religion plays a significant role in shaping political attitudes and voting preferences.

How Religion Influences Voting Behaviour

1. Religious Identity
   • Voters often support parties or candidates belonging to their own religion.
2. Religious Mobilisation
   • Political leaders use religious symbols, festivals, and slogans to mobilise voters.
3. Minority Concerns
   • Religious minorities vote for parties promising security, equality, and protection of rights.
4. Communal Issues
   • Communal tensions and religious issues influence electoral choices.
5. Vote-Bank Politics
   • Parties cultivate religious communities as reliable vote banks.

Positive Role of Religion in Voting

✅ Political participation of religious communities
✅ Representation of minority interests
✅ Protection of religious rights

Negative Role

❌ Promotes communalism
❌ Divides society on religious lines
❌ Weakens secular democratic values

2. Determinants of Voting Behaviour

Voting behaviour is influenced by multiple inter-related factors:

A. Social Determinants

• Religion
• Caste
• Ethnicity
• Language
• Gender

👉 Shape identity-based voting.

B. Economic Determinants

• Class
• Income level
• Employment status
• Welfare benefits

👉 Influence votes based on material interests.

C. Regional Determinants

• Regional identity
• Local issues
• Regional parties

👉 Strengthen federal politics.

D. Political Determinants

• Party ideology
• Leadership & charisma
• Performance of government
• Coalition politics

E. Psychological & Media Factors

• Political awareness
• Emotional appeal
• Social media & mass communication

Role of Determinants in Indian Democracy

• Reflect India’s diversity
• Increase participation of different groups
• Sometimes lead to identity politics and polarisation

Conclusion

Religion is an important determinant of voting behaviour in India, influencing voter choices through identity, security concerns, and community mobilisation.
Along with religion, factors like caste, class, gender, region, and leadership together shape voting behaviour.
For a healthy democracy, these determinants should be balanced with development-oriented and issue-based politics.

📌 UG Exam Writing Tips

✔ Start with definition
✔ Explain religion with positives & negatives
✔ List determinants under headings
✔ Conclude with balance

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