Muslim Political Representation Declines Under Modi's Leadership

India's rising Muslim population has not been matched by parliamentary representation. (AP Digital Embed)

India's 200 million Muslims are facing a decline in political power under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. Modi's Hindu-nationalist ideology has led to policies that have marginalized the Muslim community in the world's largest democracy.

Since Modi took office in 2014, the proportion of Muslim lawmakers in parliament has decreased significantly. In the outgoing parliament, only one out of 30 Muslim lawmakers belonged to Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Currently, Muslims hold just 25 out of 543 seats in parliament, with none representing the BJP.

India's Muslim population has grown to 14%, yet their political representation remains below 5% in parliament. The lack of representation hinders their ability to advocate for resources and address community needs in areas such as education, jobs, and healthcare.

Decrease in proportion of Muslim lawmakers in Indian parliament under Modi's leadership.

Impact of Modi's Hindu-nationalist ideology on Muslim political power.

Challenges faced by Muslim politicians in gaining political power and representation.

Introduction of laws perceived as discriminatory against Muslims by the BJP.

Increased violence against Muslims with little condemnation from Modi.

Lack of Muslim voices in parliament limits discussion on minority rights and hate speech.

Opposition parties hesitant to nominate Muslim candidates to avoid alienating Hindu voters.

Struggles faced by Muslim politicians in maintaining their positions in Indian politics.

Importance of inclusivity and diversity in India's democratic system for fair representation.

Need for addressing issues of representation and inclusivity for a more equitable democracy in India.

Under Modi's tenure, the BJP has introduced laws perceived as discriminatory by Muslim leaders, including restrictions on interfaith marriage and proposals for a common legal code affecting religious practices. Violence against Muslims has also increased, with little condemnation from Modi.

The decline in Muslim political representation extends to state legislatures, where Muslims hold only about 6% of seats. Despite some outreach efforts by the BJP, Muslim candidates face challenges in gaining political power, with only one Muslim candidate among hundreds fielded by the party in the upcoming elections.

Experts note that opposition parties are hesitant to nominate Muslim candidates to avoid alienating Hindu voters, contributing to the marginalization of Muslims in Indian politics. The lack of Muslim voices in parliament limits the discussion of issues important to the community, such as minority rights and hate speech.

Muslim politicians from other parties are also struggling to maintain their positions, with instances of Hindu politicians replacing Muslim candidates to appeal to the majority. Calls for fair representation of all communities in politics highlight the need for inclusivity and diversity in India's democratic system.

As India's political landscape evolves, the challenges faced by Muslim politicians underscore the importance of addressing issues of representation and inclusivity to ensure a more equitable and representative democracy.