The Population Registration Act of South Africa, implemented in 1950 as a cornerstone of apartheid, faced a range of attitudes:
Support: Many white South Africans, who held political power, supported the act as it reinforced racial segregation and maintained their social and economic privileges.
Resistance: Black, Coloured, and Indian communities vehemently opposed the act as it enforced racial categorization, discrimination, and restrictions on their rights, leading to widespread protests and activism.
International Condemnation: The international community, including many governments and human rights organizations, criticized the act for its overtly racist policies and violation of basic human rights.
Division: The act deepened divisions within South African society, fostering resentment, mistrust, and inequality among racial groups, contributing to decades of social upheaval and unrest.
Legacy: The Population Registration Act's legacy remains as a symbol of the injustices of apartheid and the struggle for equality, highlighting the importance of overcoming the impact of discriminatory laws in post-apartheid South Africa.
I hope this helped!
~~~Harsha~~~