New Delhi, The Cabinet of Progressive International, a coalition of global activists, has issued a stark warning about India’s political trajectory, accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of steering the country towards “full-fledged fascism.” The group’s statement particularly highlights the recent inauguration of a Hindu temple in Ayodhya, built on the site of the demolished Babri Masjid, as a symbol of this shift.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the Progressive International criticized the Modi government for what it perceives as a decisive move away from India’s secular constitution towards a Hindu supremacist nation. The inauguration of the Ram Temple by Narendra Modi, the statement notes, is indicative of an anti-minority stance and a departure from India’s traditional secular ideals.
The statement reflects on the historical context of the temple’s site, referring to events from 30 years ago when, on December 6, 1992, a mob led by Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) demolished the Babri Masjid, claiming it was the ancient site of a Hindu temple. The ensuing communal riots resulted in over 2,000 deaths. The Progressive International referenced the Liberhan Commission’s investigation, which identified 68 individuals, mostly BJP leaders, responsible for the mosque’s demolition. Notably, figures like AB Vajpayee, LK Advani, and Vijaya Raje Scindia, who were implicated, have faced no legal consequences to date.
The statement emphasizes that since the BJP’s rise to power, the “Ram Mandir” has become a rallying cry for their nation-building agenda. It accuses Prime Minister Modi of promoting Hindu nationalism as the dominant political force in India, citing examples such as the ban on hijabs in schools, introduction of “anti-conversion” laws, use of municipal forces to demolish Muslim properties, and efforts to implement a uniform civil code.
Progressive International expressed deep concern over India’s fundamentalist turn and called for global progressive forces to remain vigilant, especially with general elections approaching in April. The organization underscored the importance of India’s secular, just, and equal democratic values, warning against Modi’s potential to undermine these principles.
The statement by the Progressive International sheds light on the growing international attention and concern regarding India’s internal political developments and their implications for minority rights and secularism.