Communalism is an ideology of the followers of one particular religion considers the followers of other religions as inferior. Particular religion is witnessed as a homogenous and distinct group, disrespecting other religions. 

Communalism as a threat to Indian Democracy.

1. Threat to National Integrity: Hostility among various religious groups is a serious threat to national unity and integrity in India. Partition of subcontinent on religious differences in 1947 has adversely affected social harmony in India. This is continued among both religious communities and leads to communalism in democratic Government.

2. Threat of Nationalism and Patriotism: Communalism leads to various forms of religious fundamentalism and orthodox. Religious fundamentalists exploit their community people. breeds bigotry and religious identity. In such a social environment, national and patriotic feelings are marginalized and even forgotten. Therefore, communalism endangers nationalism and patriotism.

3. Impediment to National Development: Lack of National outlook, secular attitude, and holistic approach sometimes lead to their selfish ends of few religious leaders. Through their provocative speeches and writings create communal disturbances that naturally affect the national development programmes.

4. Weak Political Leadership: Political parties and leadership have failed to arrest and contain communalism in India. Communal politics emerged by Political parties which influenced by caste and communal considerations of voters and creates opportunities to indecisive and weak political leadership.

5. Threat to National sovereignty: A Nation which experiences chronic internal conflicts and socioreligious divisions may become a weak country. Gradually it may lead to foreign invasion and threat to sovereignty. “United we stand, divided we fall” is the dictum to be remembered by the people and political leaders of India. Otherwise, our national sovereignty may disappear.