Unholy Intentions: India’s Far-Right Hindus Target Muslims in a Bid to Claim Holy Land

Description:

A year after extremists forced Muslim neighbors from their homes in India, victims live in despair as their tormentors seek to drive Islam from what they consider a Hindu “holy land”. Mohammad Salim shudders when he remembers the campaign that erupted in May 2023 against his Muslim minority community in Purola, a seemingly sleepy town surrounded by forested hills in the northern state of Uttarakhand. “If I had not escaped that day, they would have killed me along with my family,” said Salim, 36, a…

Unholy Acts of Hate

In recent years, India has seen a rise in far-right Hindu extremism targeting Muslim communities. This wave of violence has been fueled by divisive rhetoric and historical grievances, leading to the displacement and persecution of innocent people.

The town of Purola is just one example of the devastating impact of these unholy intentions. Families like Mohammad Salim’s have been torn apart, forced to flee their homes in fear for their lives. The trauma and pain inflicted by these hate-fueled attacks lingers long after the physical wounds have healed.

A Struggle for Holy Land

For the extremists behind these atrocities, the goal is clear: to erase Islam from what they believe to be sacred Hindu land. The concept of a “holy war” against Muslims is used to justify heinous acts of violence and discrimination. This dangerous ideology threatens the fabric of India’s diverse society and undermines the principles of peace and coexistence.

The victims of this targeted hate campaign are left in a state of despair, grappling with the trauma of losing their homes, livelihoods, and sense of security. The scars of this conflict run deep, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of those affected.

Impact on Individuals:

For individuals like Mohammad Salim and his family, the aftermath of these attacks is a daily struggle for survival. The trauma and fear they have endured have left lasting scars on their mental and emotional well-being. The loss of their homes and community has shattered their sense of identity and belonging, leaving them with a sense of hopelessness and despair.

Impact on the World:

The rise of far-right extremism in India and the targeting of minority communities has far-reaching implications for the global community. It sets a dangerous precedent for religious intolerance and sectarian violence, threatening the stability and harmony of societies worldwide. The failure to address these issues and protect vulnerable populations only emboldens extremist groups and perpetuates the cycle of hatred and violence.

Conclusion:

Unholy intentions have led to unimaginable suffering and loss for innocent individuals and communities in India. The targeting of Muslims by far-right Hindu extremists is a grave violation of human rights and a threat to the values of peace and coexistence. It is crucial for society to stand against hate and division, and to work towards a future where all people can live in dignity and security, regardless of their faith or background.