We generally talk about democracy but when it comes to any particular thing, we prefer a belonging to our caste or community or religion. So long as we have this kind of temptation, our democracy will remain a phoney kind of democracy. We must be in a position to respect a man as a man and to extend opportunities for development to those who deserve them and not to those who happen to belong to our community or race. This fact of favouritism has been responsible for much discontent and ill-will in our country.

Correct Option (B)

The passage explicitly argues that a genuine democracy necessitates the provision of opportunities based on individual merit and respect for all persons, rather than affiliations to caste, community, or religion. It posits that favouritism undermines the essence of democracy, leading to societal discontent. Therefore, establishing true democracy is contingent upon ensuring equal opportunities for all, free from bias.

Incorrect Options:

• Option (A): While the passage acknowledges the existence of various castes, communities, and religions, its central theme is not merely the description of India's diversity. Instead, it focuses on how identity-based favouritism negatively impacts democratic principles.
• Option (C): The passage does not assert a lack of understanding of democracy. Rather, it critiques the practical application of democratic ideals, highlighting a discrepancy between professed democratic values and actual behaviour driven by identity-based biases.
• Option (D): The passage identifies a challenge to democracy (favouritism) and proposes a remedy (merit-based opportunities). It does not conclude that true democratic governance is unattainable but rather suggests the conditions under which it can be achieved, implying possibility with corrective action.