Bismillah News Channel
Islamophobia in Indian Politics: A Policy of the State Since 1947
By A.Sohail Siddiqui
Introduction
Islamophobia, the prejudice and discrimination against Islam and its followers, has been a longstanding issue in Indian politics. This article delves into the historical context and traces the roots of Islamophobia in India, shedding light on its evolution over the years. Additionally, we will examine the role of Member of Parliament Ramesh Bhaduri, a prominent figure in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s right-wing party, and the silence of the Indian Parliament regarding the establishment of the Israeli consulate in Mumbai in 1991.
(This man the President of AIMIM is the biggest tool of Islamophobia : He polarizes every time the right-wing needs to win via narrative & keeps his mouth shut on the Islamophobia practiced by Indian state from day of its inception )
Historical Background
Islamophobia in India did not emerge overnight; it has deep historical roots. India’s complex history includes centuries of coexistence and conflict between various religious communities, including Hindus and Muslims. The partition of India in 1947 into India and Pakistan further intensified communal tensions and contributed to the emergence of Islamophobia.
Post-Independence Era
India’s commitment to secularism and religious pluralism was enshrined in its constitution after gaining independence in 1947. However, the years that followed saw the rise of divisive politics that exploited religious identities for electoral gains. This laid the groundwork for the gradual mainstreaming of Islamophobia in Indian politics.
Rise of Right-Wing Politics
The emergence of right-wing Hindu nationalist movements, such as the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and its political arm, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), played a pivotal role in the rise of Islamophobia. These groups have often propagated a narrow and exclusionary interpretation of Indian identity, which alienates religious minorities, especially Muslims.
Ramesh Bhaduri and Modi’s Right-Wing Party
Ramesh Bhaduri’s association with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s right-wing party has been marked by controversial statements and actions. Bhaduri, like many other leaders in the party, has been accused of making inflammatory remarks against Muslims. Such actions contribute to the perpetuation of Islamophobia within the political landscape.
The Silence of Parliament
The establishment of the Israeli consulate in Mumbai in 1991, under the Congress (I) government led by Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao, raised eyebrows within the international community. This decision was seen by many as a significant ideological shift in India’s foreign policy. However, it is essential to note that the silence of the Indian Parliament on this matter underscores the political complexity of the situation and the reluctance to engage in open dialogue about sensitive issues.
Contemporary Challenges
Today, Islamophobia remains a pressing concern in Indian politics. The marginalization of Muslims in various aspects of life, including education and employment, is a grim reality. Additionally, incidents of religiously motivated violence against Muslims continue to occur, creating an environment of fear and insecurity.
At Din Pratidin a Congress media shop : The man claiming to fight hate to Unite India missed hate agenda & hate against Muslims as an issue before the country at the meet, exposing the real intent behind the formation of I.N.D.I.A.?
Conclusion
Islamophobia in Indian politics has a long history, rooted in the country’s complex religious and political landscape. The rise of right-wing politics, exemplified by leaders like Ramesh Bhaduri, has exacerbated this issue. Furthermore, the silence of the Indian Parliament on significant policy decisions, such as the establishment of the Israeli consulate, raises questions about transparency and accountability in the political process.
Addressing Islamophobia in India requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including political leaders, civil society, and the public. It is essential to uphold the principles of secularism and religious pluralism enshrined in India’s constitution to ensure that all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs, can live in harmony and enjoy equal rights and opportunities.
Islamophobes have converted existing institutions too to shamelessly practice hate against Muslims using all the four pillars of democracy in India. Today on the eve of final battle of 2024 such is the situation that the voters have been given no choice to choose a non- Islamophobic alternative in the coming elections. Both NDA led by right-wing RSS,BJP & I.N.D.I.A. are embedded with Islamophobia,these two are the only choice before the voters. Congress(I) & its allies deep into Islamophobia as they embed proudly the Similes of communal majority communalism Hindutva in their daily narrative.
AAP could change the game if it challenges Islamophobia to politically appeal large chunk of voters who need a change from 75 years of Upper Caste political parties ruling the country by practicing Communalism embedded with Corporate Corruption.
The attack on CM Kejriwal & set of Top APP leaders point towards with back to the wall they might teach both Congress & BJP a lesson and give respite to the country from Communal & Corrupt politics. Arrest of a Congress leader in Punjab involved in drugs business could bring end to the AAP’s honeymoon with Congress (I). In Delhi too CM Kejriwal has given sharp signals yesterday & we can expect major political developments led by AAP in next 10 days.
******