Extremism and Strengthening Communal Harmony
The Indian Muslim and Islamic community confronts a dual crisis in the form of terrorism, particularly violent acts targeting non-Muslims, and the backlash resulting from it in the form of physical assaults, Islamophobia, marginalization, and social exclusion. The April 2025 Pahalgam attack and the recent Red Fort blast involved extremist elements targeting tourists, with a suicide bomber detonating a car loaded with explosives that killed several civilians. Both incidents shocked the nation and ignited widespread communal tension. In the aftermath of these incidents, the Muslim community, including its educational institutions and community centres, came under scrutiny. Several incidents of physical assaults on migrant labourers made national headlines. These acts of violence against non-Muslims, claimed by fringe elements, have become a pressing issue that casts a shadow over the entire Muslim community. For Indian Muslims, who form a vibrant and integral part of the social fabric, this rise presents unique and serious challenges. The association of Islam with violence, fuelled by the actions of radicalized elements, threatens to undermine the centuries-old traditions of coexistence, mutual respect, and pluralism that define both India and its Muslim population.
A central difficulty facing Indian Muslims is the persistent misrepresentation of their faith due to the actions of extremists. The overwhelming majority of Muslims in India and worldwide categorically denounce terrorism and violence. Nevertheless, sensationalized incidents and the prejudices they generate create a narrative that unfairly implicates the entire community. This not only fosters suspicion and alienation but also places a moral and social burden on Indian Muslims to continually prove their loyalty to the nation and their commitment to peace. The challenge, then, is twofold: confronting the evil of terrorism itself while also combating the widespread stereotypes and prejudices that arise in its wake.
The Islamic community needs to confront the challenge of extremism, terrorism, and violence against non-Muslims by adopting a multi-fold strategy and pressing the global community to adopt resolutions distinguishing Islam from all forms of terrorism, extremism, and violence. Diasporic communities, civil society, and pressure groups must emphasize passing a universal charter of deradicalization that recognizes terrorism as a grave threat to global peace and security. One of the foremost strategies for Muslims across the globe, especially Indian Muslims, is to draw upon the rich history of pluralism and interfaith harmony that has characterized Indian Islam. The Indian Muslim community has consistently advocated unity in diversity, drawing inspiration from Sufi traditions that embrace all of humanity and actively work to free individuals from prejudice, vice, and hatred. Indian Muslims should transform their advocacy into a global campaign that gains recognition and support from the Indian government. In this campaign, religious institutions, preachers and leaders, scholars, and civil society actors must be proactively engaged in promoting this global campaign for compassionate Islam or Indian Islam focused on peace, compassion, and mutual respect. It can be reinforced through conferences, interfaith dialogues, cultural exchanges, and collaborative community projects that highlight the message that Islam, as practiced in India, is inherently peaceful and inclusive.
Another crucial response is the development and dissemination of robust intellectual counter-narratives to extremist ideologies. Islamic scholars and community leaders have a responsibility to clarify, both within and outside the community, the foundational teachings of Islam that categorically forbid the killing of innocents and the spread of terror. Educational seminars, online campaigns, and accessible literature in multiple languages can help counter the propaganda of terrorist outfits. By reclaiming the narrative and interpreting religious texts in their true spirit, Indian Muslims can challenge the ideological foundations of violence. At the grassroots level, there must be heightened vigilance against radicalization. Families, schools, and local mosques play a pivotal role in identifying vulnerabilities among youth and ensuring that no space is left for extremist influences to take root. Community-based organizations can set up counselling centres, helplines, and mentorship programs aimed at supporting young people and redirecting their energies toward constructive pursuits. Involving Muslim youth in civic engagement, sports, arts, and social service initiatives can foster a sense of belonging and resilience against extremist recruitment. While confronting terrorism, the Islamic community and Indian Muslims must also deal with the rise in Islamophobia that often follows violent incidents. Discrimination, hate speech, and social exclusion can aggravate feelings of alienation and create fertile ground for further radicalization. It is imperative that Muslims engage in dialogue with other communities, participate in national debates, and assert their rights as equal citizens. Building alliances with other marginalized groups and progressive sections of society can help create a broader front against all forms of hate and violence. The community must not shy away from introspection and reform. Where there are genuine issues within the community that enable intolerance or isolationism, these must be addressed honestly and courageously. Religious institutions should be open to reform, especially in areas such as religious education, so that the values of critical thinking, compassion, and social responsibility are foregrounded. Embracing reform is not an admission of guilt but a sign of strength and confidence in the enduring values of the faith.
The challenge of terrorism and violence against non-Muslims, though grave, is a national and global concern that requires the participation of all, regardless of faith. As inheritors of a spiritual and cultural tradition, Muslims have a special responsibility and a unique opportunity to lead the way in countering extremism and promoting peace. By drawing upon their history, engaging with society, and affirming their commitment to global pluralistic ideals, the Islamic community can not only overcome the present challenges but also contribute to building a more just and harmonious future for all.
Altaf Mir
PhD. Jamia Millia Islamia
