Daily Times

Islamophobia and Anti-Muslim violence in India have escalated dramatically, particularly under the governance of the Baharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This climate of hostility is characterized by systemic discrimination, violent assaults, and state-sanctioned actions against Muslim communities.

Recently, Muslim victims have urged the Indian Supreme Court to intervene against the arbitrary demolition of properties owned by Muslims, a practice dubbed “Bulldozer Justice” that targets alleged illegal structures under the pretext of urban development. This trend reflects a broader pattern of violence and discrimination including the recent sentencing of Muslim converts under anti-conversion laws which stifles their religious freedom and autonomy.

Experts from the third ministerial conference of Justice for All (JFA) have warned that rising Islamophobia could lead to genocide against Muslims in India. This sentiment is echoed in various protests such as those against housing for Muslim single mothers which reveal deep rooted institutionalized bigotry within Modi’s regime. The violent assaults on Muslims during Ramadan prayers at Gujarat University further illustrate their vulnerability in a country that claims to uphold secular values.

In Gujarat, Muslims face exclusion from housing in Hindu dominated areas, perpetuating a form of modern-day apartheid. The Indian government has suppressed dissenting voices from religious minorities through surveillance and harassment, often utilizing laws like the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) to stifle advocacy efforts. High profile BJP member Gyan Dev Ahuja have incited violence against Muslims by calling for the killing of anyone involved in slaughter of cow, which exacerbated communal tensions across states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

Violent assaults on Muslims during Ramadan prayers at Gujarat University illustrate their vulnerability in a country that claims to uphold secular values.

Renowned Bollywood actor turned BJP leader Mithun Chakraborty made ferocious statements cum threats against Muslims. He made a statement against a Muslim TMC leader stating “If you throw in the Bhagirathi, we will also one day… not in the Bhagirathi because it is our mother… but we will bury you on the other side. Aap hamare jhaad ka ek fal todoge toh hum aapke jhaad ka char fal tod denge”

Further he stated, “In 2026 (the next Assembly elections), the masnad (throne) will be ours (the BJP’s) and we will do everything to achieve the goal… Kuch bhi karenge, kuch bhi. Main Home Minister sahab ke saamne bol raha hoon. Kuch bhi ke andar bahut sara matlab chupa hua hai”

Recent reports indicate a troubling rise in hate speech incidents against Muslims in India, particularly linked to the ruling Baharatiya Janata Party (BJP). A report by Hindutva Watch documented 255 incidents of hate speech targeting Muslims with approximately 80 percent of these incidents occurring in states governed by the BJP during the first half of 2023. A significant portion of documented hate speech incidents, approximately one-third, has been attributed to the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and the Bajrang Dal.

CIA has categorized both these groups as “religious militant organizations”. Both VHP & Bajran Dal are linked to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) which serves as the ideological foundation for the Baharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This alarming situation highlights a significant trend in the politicization of communal tensions under Modi’s administration which has been criticized for fostering an environment where such rhetoric is increasingly normalized. Later on, BJP government has blocked platforms tracking hate crimes like Hindutva Watch and India Hate Lab under controversial IT act, 2000.

Social media plays a significant role in fueling Islamophobia with platforms facilitating the spread of hate speech and disinformation. Reports indicate that nearly two anti-Muslim hate speech incidents occur daily, with many linked to political campaigns led by the BJP. The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC) further marginalize Muslims by putting hundreds of thousands at risk of statelessness, particularly in Assam.

The destruction of property in predominantly Muslim neighborhoods has intensified under BJP rule, contributing to increased religious tensions. Civil society organizations have approached the Supreme Court to halt these demolitions and protect minority rights.

The international community is urged to demand action against rising Islamophobia and advocate for protective measures for minority communities in India. Furthermore, international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) must organize campaigns addressing housing discrimination against Muslim single mothers and promote inclusive policies. World governing bodies should compel the Indian government to ensure protection for minorities during religious observances.

The plight of Muslim women illustrates an intersection of gender and religious discrimination as they face harassment at both local and state levels. The ongoing violence not only threatens their safety but also fuels existing inequalities within society.

In short, Islamophobia in India manifests through systemic discrimination, violent acts against Muslims, and state-supported initiatives that undermine their rights. The urgent need for civil society mobilization against discriminatory laws like the CAA and NRC is paramount to safeguarding citizenship rights for Muslims. As tensions rise, it is crucial for both domestic and international actors to advocate for justice and equality for all religious communities in India.

The writer is a graduate of QAU, PhD scholar and a freelance writer and can be reached at fa7263125@gmail.com