Religious Fanaticism in India: A Growing Concern
Context
India’s strength lies in its religious and cultural diversity. However, the rise of religious fanaticism—characterised by intolerance, rigid beliefs, and hostility towards other faiths—poses a serious challenge to social harmony, constitutional values, and democratic functioning.
- The Madhya Pradesh Higher Education Department has exonerated Dr. Inamurrahman, a former principal in Indore, in a long-running case alleging he “promoted religious fanaticism” at a college.
- The complaint was originally filed by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) in 2022. Officials said the inquiry was closed due to lack of sufficient evidence, though the ordeal caused him significant personal distress.
Causes of Religious Fanaticism
- Identity Politics: Religion is often used as a tool for political mobilisation, turning faith into an instrument of exclusion.
- Socio-economic Insecurities: Unemployment, poverty, and lack of education make sections of society vulnerable to radical narratives.
- Misinformation & Social Media: Fake news, hate speech, and echo chambers amplify religious prejudices.
- Historical Grievances: Selective interpretation of history fuels resentment and communal polarisation.
Manifestations in India
- Communal Violence: Periodic riots and targeted violence disturb law and order and weaken trust among communities.
- Hate Speech & Symbolic Aggression: Inflammatory rhetoric, social boycotts, and religious vigilantism are on the rise.
- Erosion of Secular Spaces: Attempts to impose majoritarian cultural norms undermine India’s plural ethos.
- Marginalisation of Minorities: Fear and insecurity among minority communities affect social cohesion.
Impact on Indian Society
- Threat to Constitutional Values: Fanaticism contradicts secularism, equality, and fraternity enshrined in the Constitution.
- Damage to Democracy: Polarisation shifts focus from governance and development to emotional religious issues.
- Economic Consequences: Social instability discourages investment and tourism, affecting growth.
- Global Image: Communal tensions harm India’s reputation as a tolerant democracy.
Role of the State
- Upholding Secularism: Equal treatment of all religions and non-interference in faith-based discrimination.
- Strict Law Enforcement: Zero tolerance towards hate crimes, mob violence, and incitement.
- Judicial Vigilance: Courts must act as guardians of constitutional morality.
Way Forward
- Value-Based Education: Promote constitutional values, scientific temper, and interfaith understanding.
- Responsible Media & Social Platforms: Curb misinformation and regulate hate content effectively.
- Interfaith Dialogue: Encourage community-level engagement and trust-building initiatives.
- Political Accountability: Discourage the use of religious rhetoric for electoral gains.
Conclusion
Religious fanaticism threatens India’s unity in diversity. Preserving the nation’s pluralistic fabric requires collective effort—strong institutions, responsible leadership, informed citizens, and unwavering commitment to constitutional values. Only tolerance and dialogue can ensure lasting social harmony.
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