COLLECTIVE VIOLENCE IN INDIA: FACTORS LEADING TO ITS ESCALATION

This research paper aims to investigate the factors causing escalation or de-escalation of collective violence in India. Collective violence as the coordinated use of force by groups for political, economic or social objectives, it outlines major forms like communal riots, caste conflicts, terrorist attacks and mob violence. Through case studies and theories of violence causation, the proposal analyzes drivers like inequality, identity politics, governance failures and misinformation. This paper explores the multifaceted factors contributing to the escalation of collective violence in India.. With better understanding of enablers of collective violence, the study intends to inform evidence-based policy to strengthen non-violent conflict resolution, uphold rights and facilitate peace-building among communities. Key outcomes include validating known violence hypotheses and providing recommendations tailored to the Indian context for authorities to employ early warning systems and rapid response mechanisms that de-escalate tensions.