Regarding the Uniform Civil Code, there ought to exist an atmosphere where the Muslims feel safe and secure and not wary of the ‘right-wing agenda’ moves to strip them of their very identity.
Muslims in the country are shocked to hear the right-wing rulers of the country talking so enthusiastically of implementing the Uniform Civil Code!
It seems a well planned strategy. Before the 2017 elections in Uttar Pradesh, television channels had started holding elaborate discussions on Triple Talaq, building up the hype for the Uniform Civil Code.
Regarding the Uniform Civil Code, there ought to exist an atmosphere where the Muslims feel safe and secure and not wary of the right-wing agenda that moves to strip them of their very identity.
Today, Indian Muslims are wary of the right-wing, with adequate reasons for this aversion. Facts and figures go to show that Muslims are positioned in the most disadvantaged position, right from government jobs to educational facilities. Not to overlook the biases cum myths cum misconceptions against them. The basic conditions have only worsened for the community in these recent years. Discriminations and disparities and insecurities are increasing.
Today, as steady deterioration spreads out on several fronts, affecting the masses, when I’m asked what’s the difference between a Muslim poor and a Hindu poor, my answer is this: no difference except that the Muslim is surviving amidst insecurity. Yes, the Indian Muslim is apprehensive, living in fear. Mind you, not from his fellow countrymen but from terror unleashed in the form and shape of goon brigades, political mafia, and the blatant biases spreading around.
Muslims cannot openly voice their disgust or dissent for fear of the aftermath. They could be branded militants or anti-nationals. Apprehensive is the Muslim community, as dents mount on the very identity of the Muslims.
Gone are the days of living-on-par. The anti-Muslim propaganda is not just on, but gaining momentum, getting well seeped into psyches. The Muslim is viewed with suspicion. And this hatred and distrust for the Muslim is on the rise. And if one were to read the disparities that the Muslim faces on any given front – housing, education, jobs, healthcare – you would realize the biases and discriminations. The Muslim sits disadvantaged; like a second class citizen. Elements of insecurity are bound to creep in, paving way for the connected aftermath. And the double or triple whammy is that since the Muslim is near-shunned and with that forced to survive in a ghetto. So where is the chance of intermingling and getting to know the community! Also, shrinking are the forums and platforms from where he or she could be heard. This in itself is a worrying sign.
