One would take religion as a means to draw its followers to peace, harmony and conciliation with other human beings whether they follow the same religion or not; not something to be thrust upon others with force. Religion is a link to connect with the Almighty; it should not be a source to spread hatred and violence. I just wonder what direction India has taken in the recent past. Putting aside its credentials as a tolerant and secular accommodating society, right wing Hindu outfits have taken up a task to forcefully change the country’ direction.
In this backdrop, conversion of around 350 poor Bengali/Bihari Muslims, presently residing in Agra, UP, to Hinduism shall not surprise many. Such conversions are termed as ‘homecoming’, meaning the people are going back to their forefathers’ religion. It’s alleged that these poor people were lured to conversion ceremony by offering monetary incentives such as BPL (below poverty line) funds and Aadhar (ration) cards etc.
One wonders where these new converts will be placed in the intertwined Hindu caste system. In fact forefathers of many Indian Muslims got converted from Hinduism to other religions to get out of the perpetual poverty enforced by the yoke of caste system. Many of the Agra converts are complaining that they attended the ceremony out of fear, not to be evicted out of state by declaring them as Bangladeshi migrants. Needless to say such conversions are stroking communal sentiments as these are politically motivated activities to lure more voters.
But this drama doesn’t seem to be ending on Agra conversions – this is unfolding with endless acts. A central government minister has declared the other day that India shall be ruled by the Children of Ram (an avatar of Hindu God Vishnu), not by bastards (the illegitimates). Though she apologised upon protest but the message anyhow passed on to the intended audience.
Is this the shining India moving forward in 21st century? For me it has taken a U-turn towards medieval times.
MASOOD KHAN
Jubail, Saudi Arabia