Protests in India

Oppression is not limited to physical protests- several people have been harassed or picked up for criticising the BJP

Indian police have begun a violent crackdown on Muslims protesting over offensive remarks against Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) by members of the ruling BJP. At least two people were killed and dozens injured as the police opened fire on protesters and thrashed several people, with footage on social media showing that many of these incidents were instigated by the police. The houses of some Muslim protesters have also been razed by local authorities over their roles in organising the demonstrations. Hundreds have been arrested across the country, some of whom are elderly or very young; and there are reports that some were not even involved in the protests and only worked or were passing through the areas where the protests were being held. And the oppression is not just limited to the physical protests. Several people have been harassed or picked up for criticising the offending BJP leaders on social media, even though most of these posts did not contain anything that could be construed as threats.

While the police have registered cases against the two BJP leaders who made offensive remarks and the party itself has expelled one and suspended the other, most Indians and India-watchers know that there is little chance of them facing any punishment under the BJP’s Hindutva regime, as actual Hindutva terrorists who were on trial or even convicted of murder have been freed and are now members of parliament for the ruling party. In light of this, the protesters have been demanding further action against the two offending leaders, including calling on Muslim countries to pressure India. The latter approach has had some success. New Delhi did issue an apology of sorts after several friendly Muslim countries lodged formal diplomatic protests, but the government and the BJP continued to claim that the comments do not reflect the party’s views.

Also, Prime Minister Modi has been unusually silent. Given Modi’s history of failing to acknowledge Hindutva terrorism while being quick to blame all Muslims for individual actions, this would suggest that even he knows his goons have gone too far.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 14^th, 2022.

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