The correct option is
2 only
Explanation
Tantrism emerged as a significant religious current in early medieval India (c. 5th-6th centuries CE onwards). It was not a separate religion but a set of esoteric practices, rituals, and philosophies that permeated major religious traditions, including Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Buddhism (Vajrayana), and Jainism.
Statement 1 is Incorrect:
Tantric practices were not confined to the worship of the Goddess (Shaktism). They exercised a profound influence on Shaivism as well. Many Shaiva sects, such as the Kapalikas, Kalamukhas, and the schools of Kashmir Shaivism, were deeply Tantric in nature. Furthermore, Tantric elements were integrated into Vaishnavism (Pancharatra tradition) and Buddhism.
Statement 2 is Correct:
One of the distinguishing features of Tantrism was its relative openness compared to the orthodox Brahmanical tradition. Tantric initiation (diksha) was often open to women and Shudras. Within the ritual context (such as the chakra or ritual circle), practitioners often ignored or deliberately violated ordinary social norms regarding caste, class, and purity to emphasize the transcendence of dualities.
Key Takeaway:
Tantrism was a pan-Indian movement that influenced multiple religious traditions (Shaivism, Buddhism, Vaishnavism) and offered a ritual path that often disregarded orthodox caste and gender restrictions.