Modi's Policies and the Rise of Majoritarianism: India's Political and Legal Landscape Under Siege
India's descent into fascism continues unabated, from selective justice in sexual violence cases to the prolonged detention of activists, to hate speech against minorities.
The Wire critiques Prime Minister Narendra Modi's contrasting stance on justice for sexual violence cases in Gujarat and West Bengal. It highlights that while 11 convicts in a Gujarat gangrape case were released under Modi's administration, he now advocates for the death penalty for rapists in West Bengal. This discrepancy has raised concerns about selective justice and political motivations, as Modi’s party, the BJP, seeks to gain ground in Bengal’s political landscape.
Mukul Kesavan Indian historian, novelist and political and social essayist comments on India's slow-motion rise of fascism, drawing parallels between contemporary majoritarianism and historical fascism in Nazi Germany. It highlights the influence of the Hindu nationalist militia organizations like the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on Indian politics, particularly in targeting minority groups such as Muslims. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is accused of marginalizing Muslims through discriminatory policies and rhetoric, echoing ideologies of ethnic nationalism. The author warns of the dangers of majoritarianism and draws comparisons between the tactics used by the BJP and historical fascist movements.
The Wire discusses how cow protection laws in India disproportionately target Muslims, often leading to wrongful arrests and accusations. These laws, framed ostensibly to protect cattle, have become a tool for criminalizing the Muslim community, especially in states where these regulations are more stringent. The piece also highlights the broader socio-political implications, arguing that these laws contribute to a climate of religious polarization and persecution, as Muslims often face harassment or violent attacks in the name of cow protection.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered another hate speech, claiming that "infiltrators" such as Bangladeshis and Rohingya Muslims are taking over positions in panchayats in the Santhal Pargana region of Jharkhand. The BJP leaders have been campaigning in the area, alleging that these groups are marrying Adivasi women to seize land and property. Rights groups and media outlets have refuted these claims, finding them false. Modi's speech included remarks on the Adivasi population decreasing and feeling unsafe due to the alleged infiltrators. The article also highlights instances of hate speech against Muslims and minorities in Modi's 2024 electoral campaign.
Umar Khalid, a student activist accused of involvement in the 2020 Delhi riots, has been detained in Tihar Jail for four years without trial or bail under the UAPA. Despite multiple court attempts for bail, he remains incarcerated as others implicated in the same case have been granted bail. The Supreme Court's 'bail is a rule' principle has not been applied to Khalid's case, with 14 adjournments of his bail plea over 11 months. Legal experts and advocates criticize the prolonged detention, calling it a violation of fundamental rights and a failure of the justice system, highlighting the need for a fair trial.
The documentary "Prisoner No. 626710 is Present" delves into the story of Umar Khalid, a student activist detained without trial under the UAPA after being accused of involvement in the 2020 Delhi riots. Directed by Lalit Vachani, the film showcases Khalid's resilience amidst the prolonged wait for justice. It highlights Khalid's activism against controversial government policies like the Citizenship Amendment Act and the National Register of Citizens, placing his arrest within the context of broader civil rights crackdowns. The documentary also sheds light on the impact of Khalid's detainment on his partner and supporters, emphasizing the need for a fair and timely trial.