Rising Islamophobia and Violence Targeting Muslims Sparks Concern Across India

Islamophobic rhetoric and targeted violence against Muslims are intensifying across India, highlighting growing communal tensions and prompting calls for accountability.

In Kerala, Sri Ramadasa Mission president Shantananda sparked outrage by making derogatory remarks about Vavar, a Muslim figure associated with the Sabarimala temple, during an event organized by Hindutva groups in Pandalam, according to Muslim Mirror. The priest described Vavar as a “Muslim invader” and a “terrorist” who attacked Lord Ayyappa. BJP’s former Tamil Nadu president Annamalai attended the event and criticized state leaders. Following the speech, complaints were filed against Shantananda for hurting religious sentiments and creating enmity between religious groups.

In Maharashtra, BJP Minister Nitesh Rane further fueled communal tensions by alleging that Garba events during Navratri are “epicentres” of “love jihad,” claiming Muslim participants use false identities to harass Hindu women, according to Muslim Mirror. Rane suggested attendees should be considered for conversion to Hinduism, remarks that have drawn widespread criticism for their divisive undertones amid the ongoing festival season.

Meanwhile, violence against Muslims has turned deadly. In Rajasthan’s Bilwara, a Muslim man, Sheru Susadiya, was lynched on September 16 by a mob of cow vigilantes over alleged cattle smuggling, according to Muslim Mirror. Sheru was severely beaten despite pledging innocence and later succumbed to his injuries. His family has filed a police complaint, and five suspects have been arrested, though the family expressed uncertainty over whether the correct perpetrators are in custody.

These incidents reflect a broader pattern of rising Islamophobia and threats to minority communities in India, combining both ideological hostility and physical violence.