Intolerance towards Muslims and other minority communities is sharply rising in India and in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). A report by Kashmir Media Service highlights that as the International Day for Tolerance is being observed globally, India, under the leadership of the BJP government, has become increasingly overt and violent in its intolerance toward religious minorities. The report notes that Hindutva-affiliated parties, including the BJP, RSS, Bajrang Dal, and VHP, have been regularly resorting to violence, intimidation, and harassment against minorities across India. Meanwhile, in IIOJK, Indian forces, influenced by Hindutva ideology, have waged a relentless campaign of violence against the civilian population, subjecting them to brutal repression simply for demanding their inalienable right to self-determination.

The report condemns the ongoing state terrorism and human rights abuses faced by the Kashmiri people. The report further underscores the alarming surge in hate crimes against Muslims and other minorities in India, particularly since Narendra Modi assumed office as Prime Minister in 2014. The International Day for Tolerance, which promotes inclusion, peaceful coexistence, and respect for different religious beliefs and cultures, stands in stark contrast to the growing atmosphere of hatred and violence in India, the report asserts. Instead of fostering tolerance, the BJP government has enabled Hindutva extremists to threaten and kill Muslims, Christians, Dalits, and Sikhs, while vandalizing their properties and religious sites with impunity.

According to the report, Hindutva terrorists, emboldened by the BJP-led government’s support, have unleashed terror on minority communities, subjecting them to physical, psychological, and economic persecution. Muslims, Christians, and low-caste Hindus are now treated as second-class citizens in the so-called largest democracy. The report further emphasizes that Muslims and other minorities in India live in a constant state of fear, as the BJP government continues to shape the country’s policies around Hindutva ideology. Those who speak out against the atrocities faced by minorities are often subjected to political vendettas and imprisoned on fabricated charges.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan