Islamabad, 14 Oct 2023: An alarming escalation in Islamophobia and hate crimes against Muslims has been observed in India since the ascent of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Narendra Modi, to power in 2014, reports Kashmir Media Service (KMS).

KMS highlights the controversial policies enacted by the Modi government, which seemingly neglect the rights of Muslims, including their religious freedom. This is in spite of the constitutional safeguards that should offer them protection. The media source further pinpoints the ongoing conflict in Gaza and its resonance within India. A distinct trend of Indian accounts supporting Israel amidst the recent conflict in Gaza has emerged, underscoring the prevalence of Islamophobic sentiments in the country.

Moreover, KMS has raised concerns regarding the Indian media’s approach towards the Palestinian situation, which they describe as heavily biased and filled with hate rhetoric against Palestinians and their allies.

The strengthening of ties, strategically, militarily, and ideologically, between Israel and India during Modi’s tenure, is noted with concern. Narendra Modi’s explicit support of the Israeli operations in Gaza has been flagged as a potential concern for Arab states currently maintaining or considering friendly ties with India.

The report sheds light on the increasing challenges faced by Muslims in India, including hate speeches, physical attacks, and pervasive Islamophobia. According to KMS, the rise in attacks by Hindu extremists on Muslims and other minority groups has intensified under the current government. Such actions, often rooted in the Hindutva ideology, are purportedly driven by the rhetoric from RSS-BJP leaders, who use hate speeches to vilify Muslims and other minorities.

KMS asserts that the recurring attacks on Muslims by Hindutva-affiliated mobs have become commonplace. The lack of accountability for such actions suggests a prevailing sense of impunity for those perpetrating these acts. The outlet further warns of the severe threat posed by hate speeches from Hindutva leaders to the Muslim population. The report ends by suggesting that Narendra Modi should be held responsible for the perceived crimes against Muslims and other minority groups in India.