In a recent statement, Indian PM Modi praised the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, hailing him as an exemplary figure. However, critics argue that Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have been instrumental in propagating divisive rhetoric across India.
During the recent elections, instead of addressing public welfare issues, the focus of the Modi govt seemed to be on stoking animosity towards Muslims. The govt's campaign rhetoric heavily leaned on anti-Muslim sentiments, according to observers.
Chief Minister Aditya Yogi of Uttar Pradesh has also been accused of regularly espousing anti-Muslim rhetoric and policies. The Modi govt has even praised him, suggesting others should emulate his leadership, particularly his approach to using bulldozers.
Adityanath, often dubbed "Bulldozer Baba," gained notoriety for his aggressive demolition of Muslim homes, places of worship, and businesses in Uttar Pradesh, allegedly under the guise of tackling illegal encroachments.
The crackdown on Muslims, exemplified by the demolition of their properties and arrests during religious gatherings, has sparked widespread concern. Reports indicate that hundreds of Muslims have been displaced as a result of these actions.
Incidents like the arson attack on Muslim homes and destruction of crops by Hindu extremists in Pulda village, Uttar Pradesh, in 2023, underscore the escalating tensions in the region.
Critics argue that the systematic targeting of Muslims by the Modi govt and the BJP is evidence of India's shift towards a more Hindu-centric ideology, often referred to as Hindutva. This trend has raised alarm bells among those advocating for secularism and minority rights in the country.
