In recent years, hatred against Muslims in India has escalated to unprecedented levels, raising widespread concern among minorities and Muslims both within and outside the country. One of the most distressing incidents that reflects this hatred occurred in the Ratlam area of Madhya Pradesh, where three innocent Muslim children were forced, under threat and physical violence, to chant the slogan "Jai Shree Ram," which means "Victory to Lord Ram" or "Long live Lord Ram."
Hatred Infiltrated the Minds of Children
Interestingly, the perpetrator of this crime is not an adult, indicating that hatred against Muslims has deeply infiltrated the minds of children and youth in the Hindu community. The reasons for this phenomenon can be traced back to five main factors:
- Anti-Muslim Statements by Political Leaders:
The involvement of leaders such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in anti-Muslim policies and rhetoric fosters a culture of hatred within police and administrative bodies, preventing them from taking decisive actions against these crimes.
- Continuous Propaganda by Hindutva Groups and Biased Media:
Groups like "Sangh Parivar" and "Hindutva Brigade," along with their supportive media, propagate daily hostile campaigns against Muslims, stoking hatred and a desire for revenge.
- Silence of Hindu Religious Leaders:
The failure of prominent Hindu leaders, such as Brahmins, spiritual leaders, and saints, to take a critical stance against the rising tide of hatred in the Hindu community makes them complicit in exacerbating animosity against Muslims and supports the transformation of Hindu society into an entity hostile to Muslims.
- Weakness of Muslim Leadership and Secular Politicians:
The reluctance of Muslim leaders and secular politicians to confront Hindutva groups firmly has empowered these organizations. As a result, anti-Muslim mobs act without fear, believing that Muslims are weak and unable to respond. Muslim leaders must promote a culture of legal self-defense among Muslims and encourage them to face threats courageously.
- Lack of Legal Justice:
Courts and law enforcement exhibit no seriousness in addressing hate crimes against Muslims, and the absence of judicial penalties against perpetrators encourages more individuals to commit these acts.
Moreover, the current government, led by Modi, indirectly reinforces this hatred by supporting extremist elements. Consequently, the number of Hindutva activists is increasing day by day, with even Hindu children seeing animosity against Muslims as a means to personal success.
If this rising hatred is not countered in a constitutional, democratic, courageous, and steadfast manner, the entire country will turn into a hotspot of animosity against Muslims. Hatred is like an addiction; if this phenomenon continues, things may spiral out of control even for the leaders of Hindutva themselves.
Systematic Increase in Hatred
This incident is not an isolated occurrence but rather part of a series of events indicating a systematic increase in hatred against Muslims, particularly among younger demographics in Hindu society. This phenomenon signifies a serious social and cultural crisis rooted in political, religious, and media influences.
Hatred as a political and social tool
Hatred is not merely a feeling; it is a political and social tool that threatens communities from within. Targeting Muslims in such a systematic manner places India on a perilous path that could lead to dire consequences for the unity and future of the nation.
Muslims must unite to face these challenges, not through violence but through legal means, constitutional measures, and organized community efforts. Additionally, Hindus who believe in the values of tolerance and peace must speak out against this phenomenon; otherwise, this hatred will consume everyone, leaving no nation to live peacefully.
