Mujahid, one of India’s well-known figures, criticized the oppression of Muslims by Indian administrators who feed on the Hindutva ideology, in his statement to AA correspondent.
Mujahid stated that Hindu nationalists were particularly attacking Muslim religious symbols and places of worship, adding, “More than 3,000 historical mosques in India are being targeted by Hindutva leaders. Hundreds, even thousands, of Muslim foundations are being deliberately taken under control and destroyed by the Indian government.”
Mujahid, who stressed that Hindutva-supporting rulers were obstructing Muslims from worshipping, said that historical mosques, especially those dating back to the Mughal period, were being destroyed and targeted by Hindu leaders. For example, he stated that the 500-year-old Babri Mosque was destroyed on the grounds that it was the birthplace of Rama according to Hindu belief.
Mujahid said Muslims in India who are fighting against increasing racism have tried to make their voices heard through legal channels, but pro-Hindutva courts have blocked their efforts. He said when Muslims protested peacefully, the government has demolished homes and imposed harsh sanctions.
He reported that even Indian writer Arundhati Roy faced terrorism accusations and that Muslims were in a difficult situation in an environment where Amnesty International was banned and BBC offices were raided.
Mujahid said that in India, the government and its close corporations use the film industry for propaganda and that media freedom is restricted. He also said that popular Indian films portray Muslims negatively and promote Hinduism.
Stating that Muslim actors in India remain silent on the issue of discrimination, Mujahid said that names such as famous actor Shahrukh Khan are presented to the public as Muslims who have adopted Hinduism. He said that this situation puts pressure on the Muslim community.
| Key Points on the Oppression of Muslims in India |
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| * Muslim religious symbols and places of worship are being targeted in India. * Historic mosques are being threatened with demolition by Hindu leaders. * Muslim legal challenges are frequently raised. * Media freedom is being restricted to spread propaganda. * Muslims are being portrayed negatively in popular Indian films while Hinduism is being highlighted. * Muslim actors being portrayed as Muslims who have embraced Hinduism is creating pressure on society. |
