Islamophobia. Kashmiriphobia. These are becoming fearsome terms for Muslims to live with. Globally, there are attacks on Muslims. Such acts are born out of hatred of Muslims, or prejudice against them. Within India, in the last few years we have seen an increasing incidence of Kashmiriphobia.
There have been incidents of attacks on Kashmiri students, professionals and businessmen and traders in different parts of the country. After the Pulwama attack on 14 February, there was a spike in Kashmiriphobia across the country. Some groups sought their 15 minutes of fame by beating hapless Kashmiri students or traders. In beating Kashmiris, these groups sought a halo of patriotism and nationalism.
Perhaps, the halo of patriotism and nationalism that these groups seek is bigger than the everyday valour of soldiers from diverse parts of India who are on duty in Kashmir. These soldiers are surrounded by Kashmiri Muslims. They see the Kashmiris trying hard to have a normal existence amidst the chaos that surrounds them. The soldiers see the Kashmiris trying to give their families a happy and peaceful life, and seek a bright future for their children.
The soldiers are not moved to attack ordinary Kashmiris going about the business of their lives. But Kashmiriphobia manifests itself in other parts of India. It has become a constant source of fear for the Kashmiris.
New Zealand Carnage Proves Terror Has No Religion
Perhaps, the brutal carnage in New Zealand will drive home the point that terror has no religion. In perhaps the deadliest instance of Islamophobia worldwide, 49 people were shot dead and 48 injured.
Terrorism is the worst form of human expression. Any inhumane act is an act of terror. Terror is beyond nationalities, and beyond regional affiliations.
Terror strikes are taking place because of lack of understanding of our own culture, and the lack of understanding of human values. There is also lack of respect regarding the differences between communities.
In the current scenario, there is a need to understand the differences between diverse cultures, and to accept and acknowledge these differences. Rigidity and fanaticism breed terrorism. There has to be moderation and acceptance.
Countering Islamophobia
These horrific attacks are a result of Islamophobia. It is essential to create awareness among all communities about Muslim religion. We hope that Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC) and other international organisations undertake this campaign with seriousness.
The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) and some other organisations have done an exemplary job in contributing to the betterment of the Muslim community and the society at large. Their campaigns have been very fruitful in raising awareness about Islam, and effectively countering Islamophobia.
There must be such common platforms in all societies for presenting Islam, supporting Muslim communities, developing educational, social and outreach programmes and fostering good relations with other religious communities, and civic and service organisations.
We need similar efforts in all parts of the world so that Islamophobia can be effectively countered.
It is crucial for all communities to remain united against hatred, division and bigotry, so that incidents like these can be avoided.
These attacks were a tragedy not just for Muslims, but for all people of faith and goodwill. There is a need for all communities to stay vigilant and strong against these attacks on humanity.
(Affan Yesvi is a young social/peace activist based in Jammu and Kashmir. This is a personal blog. The views expressed are the author’s own. The Quint neither endorses nor is responsible for them.)
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)