Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

2-minute read
10 August 2023 | 14:37 CAT

Image: the News Tribe

More than 300 Muslim homes and shops have been demolished by government authorities in India’s state of Haryana in just four days, almost a week after a deadly attack on a mosque by a Hindu mob in a Muslim-majority district of the northern region.

Authorities launched the condemned demolishing campaign against Muslim homes and structures in Nuh, Haryana’s only Muslim-majority district, on Thursday, following the attack by extremist Hindus on the mosque that killed five Muslim worshippers earlier last week and another attack that killed four Muslims on a passenger train.

The incident has raised concerns about communal tensions, human rights violations, and the need for a more inclusive and harmonious society.

The bulldozing of homes and shops is reportedly linked to allegations of unauthorized construction on government land. Authorities claim these actions are part of an effort to reclaim public property and enforce local regulations.

However, critics argue that the demolitions have disproportionately affected the Muslim community and that due process may not have been followed in every case.

Feroze Mithiborawala, an Indian activist who devotes his efforts principally to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Western imperialism in Asia, discussed the incident and struggles of the displaced with Radio Islam International.

“Essentially, with the 2024 elections around the corner, Prime Minister Modi and his party have realized that they cannot win the election without Hindu-Muslim polarisation, done at various levels, one been the cooperate India media which is controlled by Modi’s various cooperate allies,” says Mithiborawala.

“Ever since Modi came into power in 2014, Day in and day out they are spreading hatred against Muslims and creating this entire Hindu-Muslim narrative. The spread of hatred leads to fear of Muslims and ultimately results in violent outbreaks,” he added.

Displaced individuals now struggle to find shelter, food, and necessities. This may have long-lasting effects on the mental, emotional, and economic well-being of these families, particularly on the education and prospects of the children.

Community leaders have called for an impartial investigation into the incident to determine whether the bulldozing and subsequent arrests followed the law without discrimination. They are stressing the importance of preserving communal harmony and upholding the principles of justice and equality.

Listen to the full interview on Your World Today with Moulana Junaid Kharsany.