Ram Mandir Inauguration and the Hindutva Drive: Implications for Muslims in India

Syeda Duaa Naqvi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been instrumental in reshaping India’s political landscape, leading the country away from its purportedly secular and democratic foundations towards a more sectarian and authoritarian direction. A significant turning point in this trajectory occurred on January 22, 2024, when Modi presided over the grand inauguration ceremony for the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The construction of the temple involved the demolition of the 16th-century Babri Mosque, which had stood until December 6, 1992. These developments, along with the earlier revocation of Jammu & Kashmir’s special status, raise crucial concerns about India’s commitment to secularism, democracy, and political pluralism.

 Modi’s participation in religious ceremonies has become symbolic of India’s departure from secular ideals, aligning himself openly with Hindu communalists. The construction of the Ram Mandir, supported by the BJP and its ally Shiv Sena, deepens the religious divide in the country. The Supreme Court and parliament have not adequately addressed this concerning trend. The controversial demolition of the Babri Mosque in 1992 by Hindu extremists, endorsed by BJP leaders, led to a legal battle that concluded with the court ruling in November 2019. The court decided to allocate the disputed land for the construction of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple and provide an alternative five-acre plot for a mosque to the Sunni Waqf Board.

 The BJP’s agenda to win elections and promote Hindutva, a Hindu nationalist ideology, is closely tied to the construction of the Ram Mandir. The party strategically uses religious sentiments associated with the temple to consolidate Hindu votes and enhance their electoral prospects. However, these policies marginalize and alienate the Muslim community in India, exacerbating the divide between religious groups.

 The aftermath of the verdict sparked concerns regarding the independence and impartiality of the judiciary, especially with the appointment of Chief Justice Ranjan

Gogoi to India’s Rajya Sabha, which was seen as a reward. Pakistan’s Foreign Office has strongly criticized the construction and consecration of the Ram Mandir on the site where the Babri Mosque once stood in Ayodhya, asserting that it will have a lasting negative impact on India’s democratic reputation. The Foreign Office has expressed alarm at the growing trend of majoritarianism in India, which they believe is leading to the marginalization of Indian Muslims in various aspects of society. They have also voiced apprehension about the increasing influence of the Hindutva ideology, highlighting its potential to disrupt religious harmony and regional peace. The Foreign Office has called upon the Indian government to prioritize the safety and security of religious minorities, including Muslims, and to ensure the protection of their places of worship.

 The Ram temple inauguration holds significance beyond cultural and religious symbolism, as it has played a crucial role in shaping the BJP’s political fortunes. After the Babri Masjid demolition, the BJP experienced a remarkable rise, becoming India’s largest party in the subsequent elections with 161 seats in the first national elections after the incident. Despite initial setbacks, the party’s brand of Hindu nationalism gained acceptance, leading to their triumphant comeback under the leadership of Narendra Modi. Therefore, the timing of the Ram temple inauguration holds strategic importance for the BJP, as it allows them to fulfill a longstanding commitment and capitalize on the resonance of Hindu nationalism leading up to national elections. The political dividends gained from the Ram temple movement have been evident in the BJP’s historical electoral achievements, making this event a pivotal moment in the party’s ongoing narrative of religious and political consolidation.

 The Ram temple has become a crucial test for the principles of Indian democracy and secularism, driven by three significant factors. Firstly, Prime Minister Modi’s explicit support for Hindu extremism, evident in measures such as revoking articles 370 and 35(A), implementing the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), and introducing the National Register of Citizens (NRC), signals a shift towards establishing India as a Hindu state, jeopardizing democratic and secular values. Secondly, the erosion of political pluralism and religious tolerance, coupled with inadequate responses to Hindu communal elements, undermines the rule of law and fosters social divisions. Instances of communal violence, like the Delhi riots involving Hindu extremist groups with alleged BJP support, further undermine democratic and secular principles. Lastly, the presence of religious minorities in India, facing marginalization under the BJP’s Hindu state agenda, poses a threat to national unity, as seen in projects like the Ram Temple, CAA, and NRC. These initiatives have the potential to polarize society and pose a threat to the unity of the country as a whole.

 In conclusion, the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya represents a significant moment in India’s history, which raises questions about the country’s dedication to democracy and secularism. The increasing erosion of these fundamental values, accompanied by the targeting of religious minorities, particularly Muslims, is a

cause for significant concern. The rise of Hindutva-driven policies and actions against Muslims has created a climate of fear and insecurity, undermining the principles of inclusivity and religious tolerance. These developments pose a threat to India’s social fabric and its reputation as a diverse and pluralistic nation. Consequently, it is imperative to address these concerns and actively safeguard the principles of democracy and secularism to ensure the preservation of India’s democratic framework and the promotion of harmonious social relations.