Abdul Basit Alvi
The ideology of Hindutva, aiming to shape India’s cultural and political identity through a Hindu perspective, has sparked intense debate and examination. Advocates argue that it fosters a unified national identity, but there are notable apprehensions and critiques regarding its adverse effects. A major point of criticism against Hindutva is its perceived exclusiveness, which could marginalize religious and cultural minorities. By accentuating a Hindu-centric identity, there’s a risk of alienating diverse communities that enrich India’s fabric. This exclusivity runs counter to the secular principles outlined in the Indian Constitution, guaranteeing equal rights and protection to all citizens irrespective of their religious or cultural affiliations. The association of Hindutva with hyper-nationalism raises concerns about communal polarization. When taken to extremes, this ideology contributes to religious tensions, disrupting the peaceful coexistence of India’s diverse communities. The blurred line between cultural nationalism and religious chauvinism results in the marginalization of religious minorities and fosters an atmosphere of distrust and animosity. Critics of Hindutva accuse some proponents of engaging in historical revisionism to align with their narrative. This revisionism involves reinterpreting historical events and figures to fit the ideology’s agenda, potentially creating a distorted understanding of India’s pluralistic past and influencing public perceptions, thereby exacerbating divisions among communities. The close association of Hindutva with the political landscape, particularly through the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), raises concerns about the erosion of secular principles. The intertwining of religion and politics undermines the secular foundation of the Indian state, impacting the rights and freedoms of individuals who don’t adhere to Hinduism. The state’s obligation to treat all religions equally is compromised in favor of a Hindu-centric agenda. While Hindutva emphasizes cultural nationalism rooted in Hindu traditions, there are concerns about the potential homogenization of diverse cultures within India. The country’s numerous languages, traditions, and practices contribute to its unique identity, and an overemphasis on a singular cultural narrative stifles this diversity, hindering the rich tapestry of India. The negative aspects of Hindutva raise valid concerns about the potential marginalization of religious and cultural minorities, communal tensions, historical distortions, and threats to secularism. The BJP and Modi staunchly adhere to the principles of Hindutva. Since assuming office in 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has been under scrutiny both nationally and internationally. A significant point of contention revolves around the economic policies implemented by the Modi government. The sudden demonetization in 2016, aimed at combating black money and corruption, faced severe backlash due to its impact on the informal economy. This move disproportionately affected small businesses and daily wage earners, leading to economic hardships for many. The introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) also drew criticism for its complexity and initial disruption to businesses. The transition posed challenges for small and medium enterprises, contributing to economic difficulties. Despite the government’s emphasis on initiatives such as ‘Make in India’ and ‘Skill India,’ job creation remains a concern. The promised increase in employment opportunities has not materialized as expected, resulting in a widening gap between job seekers and available opportunities. The economic challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic further intensified concerns about unemployment, prompting calls for more robust job creation strategies. Another contentious aspect associated with the Modi government is the perceived rise in social divisions and intolerance. Instances of religious and caste-based violence have increased, fostering an environment of fear and discord. The government’s response to such incidents and its handling of issues related to freedom of expression have raised concerns among those advocating for a more inclusive and tolerant society. The Modi government has faced criticism for its treatment of media and freedom of expression. The use of sedition laws and the targeting of journalists have raised questions about the government’s commitment to a free and vibrant press. Environmentalists have expressed worries about the Modi government’s approach to environmental conservation. The promotion of large-scale infrastructure projects and policies that relax environmental regulations has alarmed those advocating for sustainable development. These policies are seen as having long-term detrimental effects on India’s natural resources and biodiversity. India has come under scrutiny and faced criticism for its human rights record. Despite constitutional provisions aimed at eliminating untouchability and promoting social equality, caste-based discrimination remains a persistent challenge. Dalits, also known as Scheduled Castes, continue to experience discrimination and violence, with reported atrocities in various parts of the country. Communal tensions within India’s diverse religious landscape have led to human rights violations, including incidents of religious discrimination, hate crimes, and attacks on religious minorities. Gender-based violence remains a pressing issue, with incidents of sexual assault, domestic violence, and harassment persisting. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach, including legal reforms, law enforcement sensitivity training, and initiatives to challenge entrenched gender norms. However, India has fallen short in addressing these issues. Concerns have been raised about threats to freedom of expression, with journalists, activists, and dissenting voices facing intimidation, harassment, and legal action. Protecting press freedom is crucial for upholding human rights and maintaining a healthy democracy, but the Modi-led government has failed to ensure freedom of expression. Reports of arbitrary detentions, excessive use of force by law enforcement agencies, and encounters that raise questions about due process have further fueled concerns. The situation in Manipur serves as an example of human rights violations against minorities in India. The region is facing persistent human rights challenges due to armed conflicts involving insurgent groups, state forces, and paramilitary organizations. Numerous cases of extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detentions, and allegations of torture have raised concerns about accountability and transparency. The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) has been a contentious issue, granting broad powers to security forces and facing criticism for potential human rights abuses. The prolonged conflict in Manipur disproportionately affects women, who often find themselves vulnerable to violence and abuse. Journalists and activists in Manipur also face challenges in exercising their freedom of expression, with instances of harassment, intimidation, and attacks limiting their ability to report on human rights abuses and other public concerns. A free and vibrant media is crucial for fostering transparency and accountability in any society, but India has failed to ensure it in this context. The region of Jammu and Kashmir has long been a source of geopolitical tension and conflict between India and Pakistan. In the context of Indian-administered Kashmir, human rights violations have garnered international concern. Jammu and Kashmir have witnessed intermittent civilian casualties by Indian army. The substantial presence of the Indian Army has been linked to reports of human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detentions, and allegations of torture. The impact of armed conflict on the civilian population has been a central concern for international observers. The Indian government’s implementation of communication blackouts and internet restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir has faced criticism for impeding information flow, limiting freedom of expression, and hindering access to essential services. The use of pellet guns by security forces has been a contentious issue, resulting in severe injuries, including blindness. This has raised questions about the proportionality of force used in managing protests and civil unrest. Reports of arbitrary detentions and restrictions on individuals’ movement have sparked concerns about civil liberties. Preventive detention laws have been criticized for enabling authorities to detain individuals without formal charges, sometimes for extended periods. Minority communities, such as Kashmiri Pandits and indigenous groups, have encountered challenges due to the conflict, including the forced displacement of Kashmiri Pandits in the early 1990s. The complex and multi-faceted nature of human rights challenges in the India has brought the situation in Occupied Jammu and Kashmir to international attention. Various countries and human rights organizations have called for a peaceful resolution and expressed concerns over reported human rights violations. Diplomatic efforts to facilitate dialogue between India and Pakistan are deemed essential for long-term stability and human rights protection in the region, although India has shown reluctance to address human rights concerns in Occupied Kashmir and has not granted the right of self-determination to Kashmiris, as outlined in UN regulations. The Indian populace is increasingly aware of Prime Minister Modi’s intentions to transform India from a secular state into a Hindu-centric nation. Frustration with the policies of the Modi government and its human rights violations against minorities has grown, leading to a decline in support for the BJP-led government. Calls for independence from India have been heard in Ladakh/Kargil and other parts of the country. Recently, Kashmiris in the Indian-administered territory showed defiance and mistrust toward the Modi regime. In a recent election in Ladakh, out of 26 seats, the BJP only secured 2, signaling a shift in public sentiment. Earlier this year, India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) faced a significant setback as voters in Karnataka state rejected the Hindu-nationalist policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party in crucial local elections, marking the loss of its only stronghold in the country’s south. Karnataka had served as a testing ground, or “laboratory,” for the BJP’s right-wing Hindu-nationalist ideology, known as Hindutva. Some analysts view this defeat as a potential sign of challenges for Modi as he seeks to secure a momentous second decade in power. In the state’s legislative assembly, the opposition Congress party emerged victorious with 135 seats, compared to the BJP’s 66 seats, providing Modi’s opponents with momentum as they gear up to challenge the populist leader in next year’s general election. Karnataka, with an 84% Hindu population among its 65 million residents, witnessed a BJP campaign heavily tailored to appeal to this majority. In recent years, the state has enacted legislation rooted in Hindutva, such as banning the sale and slaughter of cows, considered sacred to Hindus. Additionally, a controversial anti-conversion bill was passed, making it more challenging for interfaith couples to marry. Last year, Karnataka also banned Muslim girls from wearing the hijab in educational institutes, leading to protests and deepening religious tensions. The BJP’s electoral setback is seen by some as the beginning of its decline. The failure of the Hindutva ideology in India serves as a lesson that extremism lacks durability and cannot sustain itself in the long run. A gentle approach, addressing all issues equally and transparently, appears to be more effective in winning the hearts of the people. This situation in India serves as an eye-opener for extremists, Anti State elements and Separatists, that to live with Pakistan is better than to be with India or remain independent. Readers, The conditions in Pakistan seem more favorable than those in India, providing all citizens with the freedom to move, reside, and work anywhere in Pakistan and AJK. The law and order situation is deemed satisfactory, with minorities enjoying respect and equal rights. The overall improved situation is attributed to the security and safety measures upheld by Pakistan and the Pak Army. People in Pakistan acknowledge the advantages of residing in the country and actively contributing to its strength.
