The Politics of Secularism
As we reflect on our history and celebrate Independence Day, we must recognize the ongoing struggle of Hindus in Bangladesh—those who have consistently resisted throughout history to preserve their identity despite relentless persecution.
“A divisive design with a colonial legacy continues to harass Hindus to this day.”
As we celebrate Independence Day on August 15, 2024, we must reflect on the challenges faced by our Hindu brothers and sisters in Bangladesh.
Once part of Akhanda Bharat, these communities now endure ongoing threats and persecution. This article explores how political strategies, under the guise of secularism, have negatively impacted Hindus in both India and Bangladesh.
Early Islamic Invasions and Hindu Resilience
Starting in the 10th century, Islamic invaders began their attempts to impose their religious and cultural practices on the Indian subcontinent. Despite these efforts, many Hindus in Bengal resisted conversion and remained committed to their traditional ways.
For example, even those who converted to Islam often retained their old customs, demonstrating a profound connection to their land and heritage.
This resilience illustrates how deeply rooted Hindu culture was, despite centuries of pressure and attempts to alter it. The ability of Hindus to preserve their identity through these turbulent times highlights their enduring spirit.
The 1905 Partition of Bengal: A Prelude to Greater Divisions
In 1905, the British government decided to partition Bengal, creating separate administrative regions for Hindus and Muslims. This move was designed to exploit religious differences and weaken the unity of the Bengali people. The idea was to divide and rule by fostering tensions between communities.
However, widespread protests from both Hindus and Muslims led to the reversal of the partition in 1911. Despite this reversal, the attempt to divide Bengal had lasting effects, setting the stage for future conflicts and further divisions. The legacy of this divisive strategy continued to influence political and social dynamics in the region.
The Shariat Act and Institutionalized Divisions
In 1937, the British government introduced the Shariat Act, which mandated that Bengali Muslims follow Islamic law (Sharia) instead of their traditional customs. This law was more about political maneuvering than genuine religious fairness.
By establishing a rigid religious identity for Muslims, it deepened the divide between Hindus and Muslims. The Shariat Act served the interests of political leaders and often disadvantaged women, disrupting the previously shared customs that had connected both communities for centuries.
This move further entrenched divisions and created additional barriers between the two groups.
Post-Independence Challenges: Language and Identity
After India gained independence in 1947, East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) adopted Urdu as its official language, sidelining Bengali, which was the mother tongue for both Hindus and Muslims.
This decision was intended to reinforce religious and cultural divisions, leaving Hindus increasingly marginalized. The shift in language policy made it harder for Hindus to maintain their cultural and social identity, further straining their position within the new nation.
The imposition of Urdu was not just a linguistic change but a deliberate effort to alter cultural affiliations and exacerbate existing divisions.
The CAA and NRC Controversy: Modern Implications
In recent years, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) were introduced to offer protection to persecuted Hindus from neighboring countries, including Bangladesh.
These laws aimed to address historical injustices by providing refuge to those suffering from religious persecution. For instance, the CAA was designed to help Hindus fleeing religious violence in Bangladesh and Pakistan. However, the Congress party and other political groups, driven by secularist agendas and divisive politics, have obstructed these measures.
This resistance reflects a continuation of the politics of secularism, which undermines the welfare of persecuted Hindus. Consequently, Hindus in Bangladesh are left facing even greater uncertainty and danger, missing out on the support they desperately need.
The opposition to these laws has highlighted how divisive politics can prevent meaningful assistance and perpetuate suffering.
Conclusion : As we reflect on our history and celebrate Independence Day, we must recognize the ongoing struggle of Hindus in Bangladesh—those who have consistently resisted throughout history to preserve their identity despite relentless persecution.
These resilient individuals continue to face severe challenges due to divisive politics that perpetuate their suffering. The legacy of such divisive politics, often masked as secularism, has long-term consequences that undermine unity and justice.
On this Independence Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to reject such divisive practices. We must prioritize the protection of our culture and traditions, ensuring that secularism does not become a tool for division. By standing united, we can safeguard the principles of equality and justice for all communities, honoring the true spirit of our independence.
About the Author: Irasis Acharya holds an LL.M in Jurisprudence from Cardiff University, United Kingdom, and an LL.B from the Faculty of Law, University of Delhi. He represents Bhatli constituency in the Odisha assembly. Views expressed are personal.
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