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Title The Otherization of Religious Minorities in India under the BJP Government: A Case Study of Muslim Minority (2019-2021)

Author(s) Usama Hameed

Abstract Abstract This research study analyzes the policies and strategies of Modi-led second term BJP government in India against minorities, particularly towards Indian Muslims. This study explores how state apparatus and constitutional tools have been used to further marginalize Muslims in India. In doing so, the study analyzes constitutional arrangements including the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution; a revised National Register for Citizenship; Citizenship Amendment Act and judgement of the Indian Supreme Court on Babri Mosque controversy. Viewing these developments through the philosophy of ‘Majoritarianism’, the study argues that the socio-political rhetoric of Hindu nationalism is based on the foundations of ‘Majority versus Minority’ that the BJP established in India after coming into power. This led the proponents of the Hindu nationalist agenda to divide the society into two distinct communities of ‘own’ and ‘other’, which ultimately resulted in further exclusion of minority communities, depriving them socio-politically and economically. Subsequently, minorities have been suffering from systematic ‘Otherization’ for decades, which is directly proportionate to the rise of Hindu nationalism in India. This otherization, confined to social policing before and during the first term of the Modi-led BJP government, has taken shape of institutionalized marginalization since. The research elucidates the abovementioned constitutional arrangements as instances of this institutionalized otherization. While Muslims are a primary target of systemic otherization, the research argues that the secular character of Indian constitution itself becomes questionable as India is on the way to become a majoritarian state. Space has been shrinking for independent institutions due to these majoritarian policies of the current Indian government. Media, civil society, and judiciary are unable to play an independent role to correct the course of the state. Political parties – including the Congress Party – have largely compromised their secular agenda and are following a Soft Hindutva approach to appease the majority. The overall scenario is not in favor of the suppressed classes (low castes in India) and minorities. The research study argues that the phenomenon of majoritarianism and otherization in India has serious implications for regional peace and stability, if not countered in due course of time.

Type Thesis/Dissertation MS

Faculty Social Sciences

Department International Relations

Language English

Publication Date 2023-11-23

Subject NA

Publisher NA

Contributor(s) NA

Format 16 Edition Chicago Manual

Identifier NA

Source NA

Relation NA

Coverage NA

Rights NA

Category NA

Description