The Rise of Neo Hindutva
The Rise of Neo Hindutva
Table OF Content
Abstract 4
Introduction 3
Etymology of Hindutva 4
Symbiotic Relationship between Fascism, Nazism, and Hindutva 4
Neo-Hindutva: The Radicalization of Muslims in India 5
Political Opportunism and Polarization 6
Saffron Terrorism and Transnational Implications 7
The Sangh Parivar: Fostering Radicalization 7
Islamophobic Conspiracism Against Muslim Women 9
Neo-Hindutva: A Global Threat 9
Conclusion 11
ABSTRACT
In the complex and modern world, conflicts rooted in religious, ethnic, and sectarian differences have intensified, largely fueled by the growing wave of religious intolerance. The historical relationship between Hindus and Muslims has often been marked by animosity and strain. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has embraced Neo-Hindutva, an ideology rooted in Hinduism, with policies that lean towards populism rather than pluralism. Modi’s nationalist approach, aligned with the Hindu nationalist movement, has raised concerns about its potential impact on international relations. The escalating ethno-nationalism advocated by certain factions within Hinduism raises significant risks about aggression, violence, and the potential for both intrastate and global conflicts, thereby endangering Hinduism itself and exacerbating hostilities among religious communities. The manifestation of violence only serves to deepen existing tensions, further jeopardizing the prospects of peaceful coexistence. This radicalism’s capacity to transcend borders poses a grave threat to regional and global peace, potentially ushering in a new cycle of violence accompanied by severe humanitarian crises.
Keywords: Hinduism, Muslims, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Neo Hindutva, Religious Intolerance, Interstate Conflicts, Intrastate Conflicts, Regional and Global Peace.
1. INTRODUCTION
Introduction 3
Etymology of Hindutva 4
Symbiotic Relationship between Fascism, Nazism, and Hindutva 4
Neo-Hindutva: The Radicalization of Muslims in India 5
Political Opportunism and Polarization 6
Saffron Terrorism and Transnational Implications 7
The Sangh Parivar: Fostering Radicalization 7
Islamophobic Conspiracism Against Muslim Women 9
Neo-Hindutva: A Global Threat 9
Conclusion 11
In the complex and modern world, conflicts rooted in religious, ethnic, and sectarian differences have intensified, largely fueled by the growing wave of religious intolerance. The historical relationship between Hindus and Muslims has often been marked by animosity and strain. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has embraced Neo-Hindutva, an ideology rooted in Hinduism, with policies that lean towards populism rather than pluralism. Modi’s nationalist approach, aligned with the Hindu nationalist movement, has raised concerns about its potential impact on international relations. The escalating ethno-nationalism advocated by certain factions within Hinduism raises significant risks about aggression, violence, and the potential for both intrastate and global conflicts, thereby endangering Hinduism itself and exacerbating hostilities among religious communities. The manifestation of violence only serves to deepen existing tensions, further jeopardizing the prospects of peaceful coexistence. This radicalism’s capacity to transcend borders poses a grave threat to regional and global peace, potentially ushering in a new cycle of violence accompanied by severe humanitarian crises.
Keywords: Hinduism, Muslims, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Neo Hindutva, Religious Intolerance, Interstate Conflicts, Intrastate Conflicts, Regional and Global Peace.
The arrival of Muslims in the Indian subcontinent dates back to the 8th century, and their rule began in the 11th century, lasting until the 18th century. This epoch is better known than any other era that came before in the history of India which resulted in the emergence of one of the world’s ancient civilizations called the Indo Islamic Civilization. Apart from Arab, Afghan, Turk and Mongol conquerors, this region also witnessed the Ghaznavid dynasty, Ghurid dynasty & Timurid dynasty which had a deep impression on the languages, beliefs and arts of India and this impact is still visible in India. However, in the 19th century, British colonialism tightened its grip on the subcontinent, leading to the downfall of the Islamic State of Mughal in 1858, marking the end of more than eight centuries of Islamic rule in India. The roots of India’s contemporary problems can be traced back to the time when Britain officially annexed the subcontinent to the British crown. In their pursuit of eliminating Islamic rule, the British also exacerbated tensions between the two largest religious communities in the region. After World War II, British colonialism withdrew from the subcontinent, and with sectarian conflicts on the rise, the option of partition became inevitable. Muslims chose Pakistan, while Hindus remained in the rest of India. Tragically, this partition resulted in a massive massacre as thousands of Muslims were killed while migrating to Pakistan. Those who decided to stay in India, often due to economic constraints, faced challenging circumstances. Subsequent to the partition, India and Pakistan engaged in conflicts, leading to the separation of Bangladesh from Pakistan and the contentious issue of Jammu & Kashmir. Despite United Nations resolutions advocating the right to self determination for Kashmiris, India maintained control over the region, imposing its own sectarian, fascist, and racist policies. This marked the beginning of a dark and painful reality in the region.
After India gained independence, Hindus assumed prominent roles in politics and the economy, inheriting positions from British administration. This historical transition set the stage for tensions between Hindus and Muslims over the idea of a national state, a divide that deepened over time. Over the past three decades, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) pursued an anti-Muslim agenda with religious-communal policies. This approach resulted in several major clashes, notably the demolition of the Babri Mosque in Uttar Pradesh and the 2002 Gujarat massacre, which caused significant loss of life and heightened communal tensions. This situation led to an ideological rift among Hindus. One faction advocated for a political agenda based on Hinduism, promoting terms like Hindutva and Hindu Rashtra (Hindu state). Another faction believed in keeping religion separate from politics and prioritizing equal rights and protections for all citizens, including minorities. The 15th Indian Census data (2021) reveals a notable increase in the Muslim population, which has raised concerns among Hindu nationalists. The total Muslim population rose to 14.2% of the overall population, while the proportion of Hindus declined. This shift in demographics has political implications, as evidenced by the BJP’s rise to power in 2014 and the decline of the Indian National Congress, which had previously held power for a decade. The growing Muslim population is perceived by some Hindu nationalists as a potential challenge to India’s geopolitical and geo-economic status. The fear of Muslims influencing the country’s trajectory has played a role in shaping political discourse and policies.
2. ETYMOLOGY OF HINDUTVA
The arrival of Muslims in the Indian subcontinent dates back to the 8th century, and their rule began in the 11th century, lasting until the 18th century. This epoch is better known than any other era that came before in the history of India which resulted in the emergence of one of the world’s ancient civilizations called the Indo Islamic Civilization. Apart from Arab, Afghan, Turk and Mongol conquerors, this region also witnessed the Ghaznavid dynasty, Ghurid dynasty & Timurid dynasty which had a deep impression on the languages, beliefs and arts of India and this impact is still visible in India. However, in the 19th century, British colonialism tightened its grip on the subcontinent, leading to the downfall of the Islamic State of Mughal in 1858, marking the end of more than eight centuries of Islamic rule in India. The roots of India’s contemporary problems can be traced back to the time when Britain officially annexed the subcontinent to the British crown. In their pursuit of eliminating Islamic rule, the British also exacerbated tensions between the two largest religious communities in the region. After World War II, British colonialism withdrew from the subcontinent, and with sectarian conflicts on the rise, the option of partition became inevitable. Muslims chose Pakistan, while Hindus remained in the rest of India. Tragically, this partition resulted in a massive massacre as thousands of Muslims were killed while migrating to Pakistan. Those who decided to stay in India, often due to economic constraints, faced challenging circumstances. Subsequent to the partition, India and Pakistan engaged in conflicts, leading to the separation of Bangladesh from Pakistan and the contentious issue of Jammu & Kashmir. Despite United Nations resolutions advocating the right to self determination for Kashmiris, India maintained control over the region, imposing its own sectarian, fascist, and racist policies. This marked the beginning of a dark and painful reality in the region.
After India gained independence, Hindus assumed prominent roles in politics and the economy, inheriting positions from British administration. This historical transition set the stage for tensions between Hindus and Muslims over the idea of a national state, a divide that deepened over time. Over the past three decades, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) pursued an anti-Muslim agenda with religious-communal policies. This approach resulted in several major clashes, notably the demolition of the Babri Mosque in Uttar Pradesh and the 2002 Gujarat massacre, which caused significant loss of life and heightened communal tensions. This situation led to an ideological rift among Hindus. One faction advocated for a political agenda based on Hinduism, promoting terms like Hindutva and Hindu Rashtra (Hindu state). Another faction believed in keeping religion separate from politics and prioritizing equal rights and protections for all citizens, including minorities. The 15th Indian Census data (2021) reveals a notable increase in the Muslim population, which has raised concerns among Hindu nationalists. The total Muslim population rose to 14.2% of the overall population, while the proportion of Hindus declined. This shift in demographics has political implications, as evidenced by the BJP’s rise to power in 2014 and the decline of the Indian National Congress, which had previously held power for a decade. The growing Muslim population is perceived by some Hindu nationalists as a potential challenge to India’s geopolitical and geo-economic status. The fear of Muslims influencing the country’s trajectory has played a role in shaping political discourse and policies.
term “Hindutva” originates from the fusion of “Hindu” and “Tattva,” signifying “Hindu principles.” Hindutva embodies the concept of forging a unified Hindu nation based on universal Hinduism. Initially conceived as a social and religious movement by its founder Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, Hindutva evolved into a potent political force, eventually crystallizing into the nationalist organizations Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 1925, gaining substantial influence by the late 1980s. This transformation from ideological underpinnings to political tools for accessing power, often involving alliances with other minority and ethnic groups during elections, has been a hallmark of Hindu nationalist legacy. Central to Hindutva is a racial theory asserting the superiority of the Hindu nation over others. Recent years have witnessed a surge in communal and religious conflicts, leaving minorities feeling marginalized and insecure within India. Paradoxically, the practice of secularism, aimed at harmonizing diverse beliefs, has accentuated religious fissures in the country.
3. SYMBIOTIC RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FASCISM, NAZISM, AND HINDUTVA
History bears witness to the rise and fall of ideologies that have shaped the course of nations. Among the most pernicious ideologies that have left indelible scars on humanity are fascism and Nazism, driven by notions of racial superiority, totalitarianism, and the subjugation of minorities. Shockingly, a modern counterpart has emerged in the form of Neo-Hindutva, an extremist ideology gaining ground in India.
3.1 The Historical Parallels
The emergence of Italian Fascism, German Nazism, and Indian Hindutva was marked by charismatic leaders—Mussolini, Hitler, and Modi—who manipulated societies through divisive rhetoric, stifling dissent, and consolidating power at the expense of minority rights. These movements share an unsettling commonality: the dehumanization of minorities as inferior, destined for suppression or extermination to create a ‘pure’ and dominant society.
3.2 Racial Hierarchies and Discrimination
Both fascism and Nazism thrived on the propagation of racial hierarchies, with Aryan supremacy being a cornerstone. This led to the enactment of discriminatory laws such as the Nuremberg Laws, separating Jews from non-Jews and depriving the former of basic rights. A striking parallel can be observed in Hindutva, where religious minorities are targeted through policies such as the Citizenship Amendment Act, which discriminates against Muslims based on religious grounds. At the same time, in Indian-occupied Jammu Kashmir, where most people are Muslims, there’s a similar situation where the abrogation of Article 370 has brought about targeted changes. Such policies undermine the secular fabric of India, echoing the dark past of fascism and Nazism.
3.3 Militarization and Exclusivity
Fascist and Nazi regimes militarized societies, enforcing conformity and suppressing dissent. Similarly, Hindutva extremists advocate for a militarized Hinduism, a concept reminiscent of fascist ideology. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), an influential Hindutva organization, has integrated a militaristic element into its philosophy, mirroring the fascist ideology of subjugating society to a nationalist cause.
3.4 Politicization and Socio-Economic Conditions
A common thread among these ideologies is their politicization, often fueled by socioeconomic disparities. In Germany, economic woes were exploited by Nazis to manipulate and rally the masses. Similarly, in India, the absence of a robust middle class and stark income inequalities have made it easier for politicians to manipulate the sentiments of the vulnerable. This echoes the ease with which fascist and Nazi leaders secured support from economically marginalized segments of society.
3.5 Challenges of Integration and Minorities
Fascist and Nazi ideologies, along with Hindutva, perpetuate divisions and distrust among communities. The fractured relationship between Hindus and Muslims in India hinders socio-economic integration. The spread of chauvinistic and nationalist policies further deepens these divides, jeopardizing the cohesiveness of society.
4. NEO-HINDUTVA:THE RADICALIZATION OF MUSLIMS IN INDIA
Throughout history, religious identity has often been exploited to garner support and manipulate masses in pursuit of political goals. In India, the rise of Neo-Hindutva has been marked by the strategic use of religious-ethnic symbols by political elites seeking votes and promoting a chauvinistic agenda against minority communities. This erosion of the state’s secular nature has empowered extremist organizations and fueled mutual distrust, ultimately leading to violent clashes. One of the most notorious flashpoints in this journey of radicalization is the Babri mosque in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. Hindu chauvinist organizations have asserted that the mosque was constructed on the ruins of an ancient Hindu temple, a claim that has triggered decades of communal tension. The Babri mosque’s demolition in 1992 set off bloody Hindu-Muslim clashes, resulting in a staggering loss of lives and injuries. The government’s lack of swift intervention only exacerbated the situation, leading to a cycle of violence and retribution. The resurgence of Hindutva, a far-right Hindu nationalist ideology, has captured the attention of the world as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured electoral victories under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. This ideological shift has sparked concerns both within India and on the international stage. Hindutva’s increasing influence has raised questions about the fate of religious and ethnic minorities, the direction of Indian policies, and the potential for regional destabilization. As Hindutva gains momentum, religious and ethnic minorities in India, particularly Muslims and Christians, find themselves in a precarious position. The ideals of secularism and religious pluralism that India was founded upon are being challenged by the growing prominence of Hindu nationalism. The policies and actions of the Modi government, such as the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s autonomy, have ignited debates about the inclusivity of the state and the protection of minority rights. Neo-Hindutva’s ascent has manifested in New Delhi’s policies towards neighboring countries. The ideological leanings of the BJP government are evident in their handling of relations with Nepal, Kashmir, and Pakistan. The revocation of Article 370, which granted special autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir, signaled a significant policy shift that aligned with Hindutva’s agenda. This has created concerns about India’s commitment to diplomatic norms and peaceful coexistence.
5. POLITICAL OPPORTUNISM AND POLARIZATION
The rise of Neo-Hindutva has coincided with the ascent of politicians who exploit religious fault lines for electoral gains. Narendra Modi’s divisive rhetoric and scapegoating of religious minorities during his campaign provided him with a landslide victory. Such rhetoric not only deepened divisions but also fueled hatred and mistrust between communities. In India, where 220 million Muslims and 30 million Christians face ongoing systemic discrimination, violence, and socio-economic marginalization, Hindu nationalists claim that Christian missionaries and Muslim preachers lure lower-caste Hindus with force or monetary incentives, prompting calls for restrictive legislation against further conversions. In a secular democracy, however, religion should be an individual choice devoid of state influence. The rise of Hindu majoritarianism, as highlighted by French political scientist Christophe Jaffrelot, stems from a persistent campaign of nationalist ideologies propagated by fundamentalists and self-proclaimed non-partisan Hindus. India as solely for Hindus, branding non-Hindus like Muslims and Christians as impure and advocating their departure. Policies like the revocation of Article 370 in Kashmir, Citizenship Amendment Act 2019, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment (UAPA) Act, Indian Supreme Court’s verdict on Babri Masjid, National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam, and family laws erode the limited rights of religious minorities in India. Leaders like Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, have not shied away from promoting extremist ideologies openly. Adityanath’s calls for forcibly converting Muslim girls to Hinduism and urging Muslims to leave India have fanned the flames of hatred. His involvement in hate speeches, mob violence, and attacks on inter religious couples has only escalated tensions and polarized society further.The alarming surge of Neo-Hindutva ideology raises significant human rights alarms, starkly underscored by the recent episode of ethnic violence in Manipur on May 3, 2023. This incident saw women subjected to degrading harassment and coerced nudity, not only infringing upon their human rights but also violating the core tenets of women’s rights. The official support for such actions erodes the bedrock of self-determination in India. It becomes imperative for the international community to call India to task for its transgressions against human rights, women’s rights, equality, and the principle of tolerance that should underpin its treatment of all citizens.
6. SAFFRON TERRORISM AND TRANSNATIONAL IMPLICATIONS
Neo-Hindutva’s rise has also brought to light the issue of saffron terrorism, a term used to describe acts of violence committed by radical Hindu extremists. This phenomenon has unintentionally contributed to a rise in transnational Jihadist sentiments within India. The perceived protection and promotion of saffron terrorism by the Indian state have the potential to stoke reactionary responses from extremist groups, further complicating security dynamics and regional stability. On October 18, 2022, the Indian government sanctioned the release of 11 men who had been sentenced to life imprisonment for their involvement in the gang-rape of Muslim women and the murder of their family members during the 2002 Gujarat riots, which saw around 2,000 fatalities, predominantly Muslims, in religious unrest during Modi’s tenure as the state’s chief minister. Subsequently, on October 19, 2022, UN Secretry General Antonio Guterres, during his visit to India, voiced deep concerns about the ongoing human rights violations within the country. Meanwhile, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir remains alarming, as evidenced by the aggravating human rights abuses that continue to adversely impact the lives of the Kashmiri population. On October 17, 2022, the Indian Prime Minister proclaimed during a rally in Gujarat that he had resolved the issue of Jammu and Kashmir. Yet, the fundamental question arises: Has Modi genuinely addressed the Kashmir dispute and granted the people of Kashmir their right to self-determination? Regrettably, the answer remains negative. By revoking Article 370 of the Indian constitution and dismantling the Kashmir valley’s special status, Modi’s actions have further exacerbated the plight of Kashmiris. Under the influence of the RSS ideology, the Modi government has inflicted immense suffering upon the Muslim population in Kashmir, employing these oppressive tactics to alter the demographic dynamics of the Muslim-majority territory. The Hindu festival of Ram Navami coincided with Ramadan, resulting in violence as Hindu processions passed through Muslim neighborhoods wielding weapons and shouting anti-Muslim slogans. In March 2023, clashes erupted in multiple states, including Bihar where a prominent madrassa was vandalized and a Hindu teenager died. Over 100 arrests were made, and numerous injuries reported across the country. In April 2022, similar clashes occurred during a Hindu festival, leading to offensive slogans near mosques. Rather than addressing the incitement, authorities in Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat demolished Muslim properties. In October, communal clashes prompted police in Madhya Pradesh to destroy homes of Muslim men accused of stone-throwing, while in Gujarat, Muslim men were publicly flogged. The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) labeled these events a stark display of rising Islamophobia and targeted oppression of India’s Muslim community. India’s Foreign Ministry responded, criticizing OIC for a “communal mindset” and an “anti-India agenda.”
7. THE SANGH PARIVAR: FOSTERING RADICALIZATION
At the heart of this troubling phenomenon stands the Sangh Parivar, a collection of organizations including the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This nexus pursues the Hindutva ideology, aiming for cultural uniformity, economic growth, and military power. It’s alarming that nearly 30,000 schools are under the influence of the RSS, where young minds are exposed to propagandist content that perpetuates hate and violence. Muslims in India have been subject to a prolonged history of targeted violence, with the leadership of PrimeMinister Narendra Modi appearing to exacerbate this unsettling phenomenon. The perpetuation of such violence is compounded by a troubling campaign of propaganda, persistent intimidation tactics, and instances of mob aggression.The annals of this tragic narrative bear the weight of the 2002 Gujarat incident, wherein 59 Hindu pilgrims met a tragic end in a train fire, an incident attributed to Muslims. The stewardship of Narendra Modi during this period remains emblematic of inadequate efforts to quell the surging unrest. A consequential chapter unfolded in 2019 with the adoption of the Citizenship Amendment Act by the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party, a legislative move perceived to perpetuate discrimination against Muslims. The aftermath bore witness to profound repercussions, as reported by Human Rights Watch, where New Delhi bore witness to riots that claimed the lives of 53 individuals, predominantly Muslims, while over 200 were left injured due to the orchestrated actions of Hindu mobs. The Islamophobic narrative further darkens with the advent of propaganda films like “The Kashmir Files,” characterized by their demonization of Muslims, a disconcerting trend further accentuated by the endorsement of such cinematic content by Prime Minister Modi himself. The disquieting trend continues with the recurring instances of mosques being singled out for targeting, emblematic symbols of spiritual reverence. This disconcerting pattern is exemplified by the recent demolition of a mosque with a history spanning three centuries in Uttar Pradesh, ostensibly to facilitate the construction of a highway. The Sangh Parivar’s influence over education is being exploited to shape young minds according to their radical agenda. By injecting propaganda into school curricula, children are exposed to distorted historical narratives, demonizing Muslims and justifying violence against them. This manipulative approach endangers the principles of tolerance and coexistence. The struggles faced by Indian Muslims in accessing education and opportunities are evident. Shockingly, very few Muslims graduate from high school, and even fewer hold public positions. A 2020 report highlights that limited access to education, healthcare, and jobs leaves many Muslims in dire poverty, even worse off than the Dalit community. Despite being 14.2% of the population, Muslims are significantly underrepresented in crucial sectors like government, education, and security. They make up only 1% of government jobs and a mere 2.7% of judges in the judiciary. In the defense sector, where 1.3 million soldiers serve, only around 29,000 are Muslims. This underrepresentation highlights their exclusion from key decision making roles. Poverty and illiteracy are rampant among Muslims, leaving them vulnerable. Around 35% live below the poverty line, and half of Muslim women are unable to read or write. Additionally, a quarter of Muslim children either never attend school or drop out prematurely. These stark figures reveal not only economic inequality but also a failure to ensure equal educational opportunities for all.
8. ISLAMOPHOBIC CONSPIRACISM AGAINST MUSLIM WOMEN
During the BJP’s tenure Muslim women have become targets of discrimination for instance in Karnataka from July 2019 to May 2023, hijabs were banned in schools, and there were incidents of Hindu extremists conducting online auctions of Muslim women. India’s female labor force participation rate (FLPR), already historically low, declined from 31% in 2021 to 23% in 2000, as per World Bank data released in April 2023. Shockingly, only 15% of Muslim women were part of the workforce, the lowest compared to Hindu, Buddhist, and Christian women, as highlighted in the 2011 All India Census Report. A 2020 report by the National Statistical Office (NSO) indicated that Muslim women have the lowest literacy rates among women of all religious groups. Only 1.90% of Muslim women reach pre-university education, and a mere 0.14% pursue technical education. The ‘India Discrimination Report 2022,’ authored by Oxfam India in New Delhi, sheds light on persistent inequalities faced by urban Muslims in India. The report reveals that 68.3% of the lower employment rate among urban Muslims in 2019- 20 can be attributed to discrimination, a significant rise from 59% in 2004-05. Non-Muslims earn 49% more than Muslims in regular employment, with self-employed non-Muslims earning Rs 15,878 on average compared to Rs 11,421 for self-employed Muslims. The report also exposes underrepresentation of Muslims at executive levels in India, with only 2.67% of executives in BSE 500 companies being Muslims. Research by the Led By Foundation highlights a hiring bias against Muslim women, wherein a Muslim woman receives one callback for every two received by a Hindu woman. These disparities emphasize the need for comprehensive reform to rectify systemic discrimination and promote inclusivity across all sectors. This recent disheartening cycle of violence and the unrelenting vilification of a religious minority evokes historical precedents, underscoring the imperative of a proactive stance. This unsettling trajectory warrants a collective resolve, particularly from the global community, to counteract the unfolding dynamics that carry profound implications. As history has repeatedly shown, unchecked cycles of prejudice and violence invariably yield deleterious outcomes, rendering it paramount to recalibrate the discourse and course of action that informs the prevailing circumstances.
9. NEO-HINDUTVA: A GLOBAL THREAT
The implications of Hindu nationalism extend beyond the territorial confines of India. India boasts the world’s largest diaspora, numbering 17.5 million, a significant tool for promoting the Neo-Hindutva agenda on a global scale. This diaspora serves as a conduit for lobbying and influencing Western countries, advancing the narrative of Hindu far right nationalism. This strategy enhances India’s standing on the world stage while simultaneously amplifying concerns about the radical elements within Hindutva. There exists a segment within the Hindu nationalist movement that envisions an expanded Indian territory encompassing Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. This aspiration is manifest in their endeavors to alter Indian educational curricula, where they seek to modify maps to align with their envisioned borders. The potential consequences of such sentiment are ambiguous, but if translated into a future foreign policy marked by territorial expansion, India’s relations with neighboring countries, notably Pakistan and possibly China, could be marred by heightened tensions and conflicts. While the Indian Constitution upholds the principle of secularism, a discernible shift towards Hindu nationalism has been observed over the past three decades. A departure from the secular vision championed by Nehru, who envisaged India as a harmonious and religiously diverse nation, is evident. This contrasts with Jinnah’s skepticism, who harbored reservations about the viability of such an inclusive state. As the Hindu Nationalist Party garners increasing popularity and attains political success, the trajectory of India’s evolution from a secular state to one rooted in Hindu nationalism becomes increasingly apparent. The unfolding developments in India’s sociopolitical landscape will determine whether Jinnah’s apprehensions were prescient. The global resonance of Hindutva ideology becomes apparent through references in the manifesto of a Norwegian far-right mass murderer, which not only voiced support for Hindutva but also advocated for the expulsion of Muslims from both India and Europe. Hindutva violence extends beyond religious boundaries, exhibiting intolerance towards various ethnic groups and minorities. This intolerance translates into varying degrees of violence affecting Christians, Dalits, and Muslims. Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the government’s stance on nearly 2 million Muslims, who have ancestral ties to Bangladesh, is emblematic of this trend. Denying their rightful Indian citizenship, these individuals have been relocated to what are described as transit camps or mass detention centers, evoking parallels with a refugee-like scenario. In November 2022, during the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of India at the United Nations Human Rights Council different countries participating in the review expressed their worries and provided suggestions on various matters. These concerns and recommendations covered a wide range of topics, such as the importance of safeguarding minority communities and vulnerable groups, addressing instances of gender-based violence, ensuring the freedom of civil society, protecting individuals defending human rights, and putting an end to the practice of torture in custody. The UPR serves as a platform for member countries to assess and discuss the human rights situation in a particular country and offer recommendations for improvement.
10.Conclusion
The rise of Neo-Hindutva ideology in India has given rise to a troubling landscape marked by discrimination, violence, and the erosion of minority rights. The exploitation of religious fault lines for political gains, the targeted suppression of civil society, and the perpetuation of divisive rhetoric are emblematic of authoritarian tendencies. The alarming incidents of violence against minorities, the erosion of civil liberties and the manipulation of educational curricula particularly in India paint a distressing picture that demands urgent attention. Hindutva’s rise casts a shadow not only over India’s secular fabric but also on global stability. On the one hand, India aims to improve its global reputation by highlighting its commitment to democratic values, especially under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership of the Group of 20, on the other hand, the increasing instances of violence against minority groups and the curtailing of civil society activities share similarities with the characteristics of authoritarian rule. This contrast between India’s democratic aspirations and the observed actions raises concerns about the country’s approach to governance and human rights. As the world closely monitors the trajectory of Hindu nationalism, it is imperative for India to recognize the perils of embracing extremism. To safeguard its own democratic principles and regional harmony, India must tread carefully in its pursuit of nationalism. The path to a truly prosperous and peaceful future lies in embracing diversity, nurturing tolerance, and rejecting the divisive ideologies that threaten to unravel the nation’s unity and peace.
The author is Mehr-ur-Nisa Director of Research KIIR
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