The Transformative Journey of Indian Muslims under the BJP: A Closer Look at Their Feelings
The relationship between Indian Muslims and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has undergone significant transformations in recent decades. Historically, Muslims faced numerous challenges and discrimination in India, especially during the early years of independence. However, with the rise and continued influence of the BJP, a paradigm shift has been observed in the sentiments and circumstances of Indian Muslims.
Historical Context and Challenges Faced by Indian Muslims
Long-standing Discrimination and Exclusion: From the early independence years (1948) to the 1990s, the Muslim community in India faced systemic exclusion and marginalization. The percentage of Muslims in government jobs was alarmingly low, often less than 0.05%, despite their large population. This situation was characterized by a lack of full benefits of independence and a sense of ghettoization.
Education and Skill Development: In the 1990s and subsequent decades, despite facing these challenges, a majority of Muslim youths turned towards education and skill development to improve their socio-economic status. The focus shifted to acquiring better skills, enhancing their resilience, and promoting a culture of tolerance and cooperation.
BJP's Impact on Muslim Feelings and Perceptions
Rise of BJP and Its Perception among Muslims: The BJP's rise to power in 2014 marked a significant turning point. For many Muslims, the BJP was initially perceived as a threat, given the party's strong pro-Hindutva stance. However, the on-ground reality has been quite different.
Modi's Policies and Initiatives: Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the BJP introduced several policies aimed at fostering socio-economic development. The slogan of "Sabka Saath Sabka Vikaas Sabka Vishwas" (Together for All's Progress and Trust for All) resonated with diverse communities. Despite initial concerns, Muslim communities began to see the benefits of these policies and integrated more into mainstream society.
Challenges and Questions
Reflections on Their Choice: Muslim communities in India, especially in regions like Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Kerala, need to introspect. Voting for the Muslim League in the past and the creation of Pakistan based on religious lines, why didn't they choose to stay in India where they have constitutional guarantees of equality and protection? Why do many still demand special attention and assert religious laws selectively?
Secularism and Competition: The Congress Party's strategy of fostering secularism and allegiance from non-Hindu populations has proven successful. However, the rise of the BJP and its positioning as a pro-Hindu party has disrupted this hegemony. Post-Rajiv Gandhi, the Congress' narrative shifted towards a dummy leader, Dr. Manmohan Singh, who steered the party towards its historical decline.
Final Thoughts
The future of Indian Muslims lies in their hands. They have the choice to either continue to be in a state of communal divide or actively participate in nation-building, respecting their religious beliefs and maintaining a harmonious relationship with the majority Hindu population. The BJP's rule has brought about significant changes, but it remains to be seen how these transformations are received and embraced by the Muslim community.