India must ensure that incidents of intolerance and harassment against Muslims and other minorities do not undermine its aspirations for leadership in the Global South and strong trade relations with Muslim-majority nations.
In a deeply troubling incident, a Muslim couple in India was recently forced to flee their newly-purchased home due to harassment from Hindu neighbors who openly stated they would not allow Muslims in the area. This scenario starkly contrasts the image of a progressive India that aspires to lead the Global South and foster economic partnerships with Islamic nations such as the oil-rich Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Iran, and Central Asian states.
While India positions itself as a bridge between the developing world and global powers, incidents of religious intolerance tarnish this narrative. The government, under the leadership of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its ideological partner, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), faces criticism for emboldening extremist elements. Critics argue these actions contradict the Constitution of India, which guarantees equality, freedom, and secularism for all citizens.
This incident is more than an isolated case of discrimination; it reflects a growing trend of societal polarization that undermines the nation’s core values. Legal experts point out, “This is a violation of their fundamental and legal rights. If such cases increase, they endanger the constitution of India.” These violations also risk damaging India’s global reputation, especially at a time when it seeks closer ties with Muslim-majority nations for trade and diplomacy.
India’s burgeoning relationship with the GCC, Iran, and Central Asia depends on shared economic interests, particularly in energy and infrastructure. The GCC accounts for a significant share of India’s oil imports, while remittances from millions of Indian workers in the region bolster its economy. Additionally, cultural and historical connections with these regions provide an opportunity for India to play a pivotal role in fostering South-South cooperation.
However, the treatment of its Muslim minority sends a conflicting message. Hypocrisy in domestic policies versus international ambitions could weaken India’s soft power, making it harder to gain trust and maintain partnerships with Islamic nations.
Despite these challenges, hope persists. Many Hindus, adhering to the pluralistic principles of their faith, oppose hate-driven ideologies. As one observer noted, “Hinduism is based on pluralism. Most people I meet understand that hate is against their religion. And that gives me hope.”
India’s strength has always been its diversity. To truly lead the Global South and thrive on the global stage, it must ensure inclusivity and equality for all its citizens. Only by bridging the gap between its progressive aspirations and internal realities can India achieve its vision of a harmonious and prosperous future.
Let us strive for an India where unity, not division, defines its identity.
Here are references for the points discussed in the article:
- Muslim Couple Harassed by Neighbors: A Muslim couple in northern India faced harassment and protests from Hindu neighbors who refused to accept them in their new neighborhood. This case highlights the rising communal tensions in certain parts of the country. Source: MSN News
- Increasing Cases of Intolerance: Reports and narratives of interfaith and inter-caste couples facing persecution, often requiring safe houses for protection, underline the societal challenges in India. These issues clash with constitutional guarantees like the Right to Equality and Freedom. Source: The Muslim Times
- Broader Context of Harassment: Such incidents are symptomatic of a broader trend where societal norms are being reinforced through coercive means, raising questions about India’s constitutional values. Source: The Indian Express
Photo source: A symbolic depiction of unity and division in India.
