Thousands of Muslims in the southern state of Kerala, India, took part in a rally to denounce Islamophobia and the increasing violence against Muslims in the country amidst the rise of Hindu nationalism.
The protesters, organized by the Kerala Muslim Jama-ath Federation (KMJF), gathered in the coastal city of Kollam on Saturday to commemorate the federation's 40th anniversary and address the current concerns of Indian Muslims. They chanted slogans against Hindutva fascism, a right-wing ideology based on Hindu nationalism that seeks to establish India as a Hindu nation rather than a secular state. The rally aimed to raise awareness about growing Islamophobia and its impact on the Muslim community.
During the peaceful protest, participants expressed their opposition to proposed legislations such as the National Registration of Citizens (NRC) and Uniform Civil Code. They also highlighted the escalating violence targeting Islamic seminaries and mosques across India. The demonstrators demanded the protection of Muslim rights as the largest religious minority in the country and called for unity among the Muslim population.
This rally echoes the mass protests that took place in December 2019 when Muslims across India opposed the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and the nationwide implementation of the NRC. Concerns persist among Muslims across the country that the forthcoming compilation of the NRC may be used to discriminate against them and deny their Indian citizenship.
The Uniform Civil Code, another contentious issue, pertains to a proposed bill in India aimed at formulating and implementing personal laws that apply equally to all citizens, irrespective of their religion, gender, or orientation. Its potential implications are a subject of concern and debate among various religious and cultural groups in India.
The Kerala protest serves as a collective voice against Islamophobia, Hindu nationalism, and discriminatory legislation, emphasizing the need for safeguarding the rights and unity of Indian Muslims.