Plight of Indian Muslims

Secularism in the Indian constitution was envisioned by its founding fathers like Jawaharlal Nehru, M.K Gandhi, and Dr. Ambedkar. But, after the passage of seven decades, the secular nature of the Indian constitution is eroding-thanks largely to the rise of the BJP to power. Modi government is trying to build a Hindu Rashtra, hence, posing an existential threat to minorities. After the BJP gained a landslide victory in General Elections, back in 2019, it has intensified its atrocious campaign against 200 million Muslims. On August 5, 2019, it revoked Articles 370 and 35-A of the Indian constitution. Hence it stripped the J&K of its semi-autonomous status. It was bifurcated into two Union territories. Citizen Amendment Act and National Register of Citizens further antagonized the beleaguered Muslim community. Muslims protested in Shaheen Bagh against the CAA. After fiery speeches delivered by BJP leaders, widespread riots started against the vulnerable minority. This led to 50 killings-mostly of Muslims. In that massacre, the Indian government was alleged for its complicity with the RSS brigade. During Covid-19, the Muslim community was stigmatized. Their businesses were boycotted. Today an Indian court has acquitted three BJP stalwarts-Lal Krishna Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, and Umma Bharti- for allegedly inciting mobs during Babri mosque demolition. This discrimination against Muslims must end otherwise it would have serious repercussions for the entire region.