Al Haqeeqa
The recent report from the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) presents a skewed narrative of religious intolerance in India, seemingly designed to stir unrest and weaken the nation internally. Indian Muslims are well aware of West’s ploy, which involves stirring agitation to undermine India’s internal stability. On one hand, the West supplies arms against Gazan Muslims, contributing to their immense suffering, while on the other, it attempts to provoke Indian Muslims by citing a rise in religious intolerance. Such duplicity calls into question West’s credibility and motives.
India, a nation where cultural diversity thrives and multiple religions coexist, celebrates religious diversity as an integral part of its vibrant tapestry. Regardless of religious affiliation, Indians embrace a spirit of mutual respect and celebration, acknowledging that all faiths are equally protected by the country’s laws and guiding principles. This cultural mosaic fosters peace, harmony, and the coexistence of diverse religious beliefs, countering the USCIRF’s allegations of atrocities against minorities. It is imperative to distinguish between isolated incidents and the broader narrative of religious persecution of minorities in India, recognizing the positive impact it has had on individuals and communities alike. Consider this; Christianity in India has embarked on a transformative journey, leaving an enduring imprint on the nation’s development. Despite being a minority religion, Christians have played pivotal roles in various sectors, shaping the landscape of education, healthcare, and social reforms. Christian missionaries have been at the forefront of educational advancements, establishing numerous schools and colleges that promote academic excellence and linguistic diversity. Institutions like St. Xavier’s College in Kolkata and Madras Christian College have set high standards for education. Christian healthcare organizations have significantly contributed to serving marginalized and underserved communities, particularly in addressing the HIV/AIDS crisis. Figures like Mother Teresa epitomize the spirit of Christian compassion, leaving a legacy of selfless service. Furthermore, Christianity has been a driving force behind social reforms in India, advocating against practices such as sati (widow burning), female infanticide, and caste discrimination.
The Indian Government has taken robust action to curb the threat of cow vigilantism and prosecute offenders. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s strong condemnation of such violence underscores India’s commitment to non-violence and unity, echoing Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings. The Indian judicial system has been instrumental in handling cow vigilantism cases, as demonstrated by sentences in the Rakbar Khan lynching case. These judicial decisions clearly indicate that violence under the guise of cow protection will not be tolerated. The recent inclusion of punishment for mob lynching in the newly adopted Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita showcases the Government’s commitment in ensuring justice to the victims of such heinous crimes. United States in the religious freedom report has expressed concern over increase in anti-conversion laws. USCIRF report however, failed to highlight that these laws aim to protect individuals from being coerced into changing their religion against their will, ensuring that conversions are voluntary and genuine. They safeguard the rights of individuals to choose their faith freely, without undue influence or pressure, thereby maintaining the integrity of personal religious choice.
The debate around the hijab, highlighted in the USCIRF report, also warrants a nuanced understanding. The controversy in Karnataka, where Muslim students were sent away for wearing hijabs, sparked significant debate. However, it is important to note that Muslim women in India have excelled in various fields despite this controversy. Their achievements, such as Naziya Parveen and Shabrun Khatun receiving the National Florence Nightingale Awards, Nusrat Noor topping the Jharkhand Public Service Commission exam, and Areeba Khan and Nikhat Zareen excelling in sports, demonstrate that the hijab is not a hindrance to education and personal growth. These successes show that Indian Muslim women can thrive in multiple domains, defying stereotypes and proving that their identity is not solely defined by the hijab. India’s Muslims are capable of handling their own affairs democratically and through constitutional provisions. Contrary to the misconceptions propagated by the USCIRF report, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) does not discriminate against Muslims or any other community within India. The Act reaffirms the rights of all Indian citizens, regardless of religious affiliation, while extending a helping hand to those facing persecution abroad. It is essential to understand that the CAA’s provisions do not impede the citizenship of any Indian but rather uphold India’s commitment to humanitarian values and solidarity with oppressed communities worldwide.
The USCIRF report presents a distorted view of religious freedom in India, failing to recognize the country’s efforts to uphold constitutional provisions and foster an inclusive society. India’s vibrant democracy, commitment to humanitarian values, and the achievements of its religious minorities reflect a nation that values and protects its diverse cultural heritage. The West should introspect and address its internal challenges before attempting to provoke unrest in other nations.
-Insha Warsi
Francophone and Journalism Studies,
Jamia Millia Islamia
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