India’s Muslims: In the Crosshairs of the BJP

The rise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Indian politics has been a transformative event in the country’s history, particularly for its Muslim population. Since the BJP’s ascent to power at the national level in 2014, India’s Muslims, who constitute approximately 14% of the population, have found themselves increasingly marginalized, targeted, and vulnerable. This article delves into the initial phase of BJP rule, the historical context of Hindu-Muslim relations in India, and the miserable condition of Muslims under the BJP’s rein. It also spells out key events, policies, and socio-political shifts that have shaped the current landscape.

 Hindu-Muslim Relations in India

India’s history is profoundly defined by the coexistence of Hindus and Muslims. The partition of India in 1947, which led to the creation of Pakistan, was a tragic event that left a lasting impact on Hindu-Muslim relations. Though India chose to remain a secular republic, the wounds of partition and the legacy of colonial-era communal tensions persisted. Over the decades, the Indian National Congress (INC), which dominated Indian politics for most of the post-independence made grounds for the BJP like bodies to exploit staunch forms of Hindu nationalism to enter the precincts of power. The electoral defeat of Indira Gandhi in 1977 clearly proved this as a reality. She largely misused religious divisions to clinch victory, but failed to come up with desired results.

However, the rise of the BJP, a party with deep roots in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a right-wing Hindu nationalist organization, marked a significant shift by inserting a highly biased system in the country. The BJP’s ideology is deeply entrenched in Hindutva, a concept that envisions India as a Hindu nation, thus jeopardizing the very existence of other religions. Resultantly, this ideology has often brought Muslims at odds with the party’s vision, leading to unceasing tensions and conflicts.

The BJP’s Ascent to Power

The BJP’s journey to national prominence began in the 1980s and 1990s, fueled by the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, which sought to build a Hindu temple at the site of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya. The movement culminated in the demolition of the mosque by Hindu nationalist activists in December 1992, an event that triggered widespread communal violence and deepened the divide between Hindus and Muslims.

The BJP’s first stint in national power came in 1998, but it was the 2014 general election that marked a turning point. Under the leadership of Narendra Modi, the BJP won a decisive majority, promising economic development and good governance. However, Modi’s tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat was marred by the 2002 Gujarat riots, in which over 1,000 people, mostly Muslims, were killed. Critics accused Modi of failing to prevent the violence, though he was later exonerated by the Supreme Court of India.

The Starting Phase of BJP Rule (2014-2019)

The BJP’s success in 2014 polls was seen as a mandate for change, but for India’s Muslims, it signaled a period of uncertainty and fear. The party’s Hindutva agenda became increasingly apparent, with policies and rhetoric that marginalized Muslims and other minorities.

1. Cow Protection and Lynching

One of the most visible manifestations of this agenda was the rise in cow vigilantism. The cow is considered sacred in Hinduism, and the BJP government implemented strict laws against cow slaughter. However, these laws were often used to target Muslims, who are involved in the cattle trade and meat industry. Between 2014 and 2019, there were numerous incidents of mob lynching, where Muslim men were brutally attacked or killed on suspicion of cow smuggling or beef consumption. According to a report by Human Rights Watch, at least 44 people, mostly Muslims, were killed in cow-related violence between May 2015 and December 2018.

2. Ghar Wapsi and Love Jihad

The BJP and its affiliates also launched campaigns like “Ghar Wapsi” (homecoming), aimed at converting Muslims and Christians back to Hinduism. Another controversial concept propagated by right-wing groups was “Love Jihad,” the alleged conspiracy by Muslim men to tempt Hindu women and convert them to Islam. These campaigns fueled communal tensions and reinforced stereotypes about Muslims. There are many fabricated movies that are solely filmed to slander Muslims and spread hatred against them throughout India. The Kashmir Files and the Kerala Story are the evident precedents in this regards whose mission was to misconstrue Islam and incite anti Muslim rhetoric. 

3. Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC)

In December 2019, the BJP government passed the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), which granted citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh. Critics argued that the law discriminated against Muslims and violated India’s secular constitution. The CAA, coupled with the proposed National Register of Citizens (NRC), raised fears that Muslims could be rendered stateless if they failed to prove their citizenship. Massive protests erupted across the country, with Muslims at the forefront of the resistance. In the wake of these movements, many precious were lost and Indian authorities used every tactic to suppress Muslims voice. Independent counter mobs also came into the shape of Hindu nationalists who clashed with Muslims by dismantling their homes and lodging FIRs against them.

4. Economic and Social Marginalization

Muslims in India have historically lagged behind in education, employment, and political representation. The Sachar Committee Report highlighted the socio-economic backwardness of the Muslim community. Under BJP rule, this marginalization has been intensified. Muslims have faced discrimination in access to jobs, housing, and education. The party’s rhetoric and policies have also contributed to a climate of fear and insecurity among Muslims. Due to the widespread Hindu chauvinism, Muslims have been undergoing an increased sense prejudice by BJP led government. 

The Plight of Muslims: A Rising Sense of Alienation

The BJP’s policies and the rise of Hindutva have left many Muslims feeling alienated and vulnerable. Hate speech by BJP leaders and right-wing groups has become increasingly common, with Muslims often portrayed as outsiders or threats to national security. The media, too, has played a role in perpetuating stereotypes and fostering a climate of intolerance.

The impact of this marginalization is evident in various spheres of life. For instance, Muslim representation in Parliament and state legislatures has declined. In the 2019 general election, only 27 Muslim MPs were elected, the lowest number in decades. Similarly, Muslims are underrepresented in government jobs, the judiciary, and the armed forces.

Conclusion: A Call for Inclusivity

The initial phase of BJP rule has been marked by a significant change in India’s political and social landscape. For Muslims, this period has been one of unending marginalization and vulnerability. While the BJP has emphasized development and nationalism, its Hindutva agenda has often come at the expense of India’s secular fabric and the rights of its religious minorities. 

As India moves forward, it is crucial to address the challenges faced by its Muslim population. Inclusive policies, dialogue, and a commitment to constitution are essential to ensuring that all communities can thrive in a diverse and pluralistic society. The plight of India’s Muslims is not just a political issue but a moral one, reflecting the broader struggle for justice, equality, and human rights in the world’s largest democracy.