Impact of Narendra Modi's Governance on Hindu Organisations and Communities

Since Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister of India in 2014, the relationship between Hindu organisations and the government has undergone significant changes. Critics argue that these changes have led to a more aggressive stance against other religious communities, especially Muslims, and a decline in ethical standards among some Hindu groups. This article explores the alleged shifts in policies and actions under the Modi government that have impacted the Hindu community.

Relations with Hindu Organisations

The period under Modi's leadership has seen Hindu organisations accused of losing their ethical standards and becoming more divisive. Many argue that these groups have moved away from the values they once espoused, becoming more aggressive in their approach. This has been particularly notable in the context of relations between Hindu nationalist groups and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Contentious Actions and Allegations

Several allegations and actions by the Modi government and Hindu nationalist groups have raised eyebrows within the Hindu community and beyond. Here are some points that highlight these changes:

Temple Destruction and Takeovers

Under the guise of development (vikas), the government allegedly ordered the destruction of temples. For instance, it is alleged that 400 temples in Gandhi Nagar were to be destroyed, and 350 were demolished in the name of development. Similar actions have been reported in other states like Maharashtra, Haryana, and Uttarakhand.

Violence and Loss of Lives

Critics of the Modi government point to the alleged involvement in violence against Hindu communities. It is alleged that he killed around 300 Hindus in 2002, and the numbers are likely higher. The 2002 Gujarat riots remain a subject of controversy, with different narratives on who instigated the violence.

Conversions and Sectarianism

The Hindu nationalist ideology has also come under scrutiny for alleged efforts to convert individuals to Islam and create divisions within the community. Allegations include K.S. Sudarshan being reported to have converted to Islam and his efforts to get others to recite the Kalma, along with Bharatnath, who wanted others to recite the Kalma daily.

Disputes over Shrine Land

Issues surrounding the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi lands in Ayodhya and Kashi have also been contentious. The Ram Janmabhoomi movement has seen significant changes, and the Kashi Vishwanath temple's role has been removed from the discussion, forcing Shankaracharya to endorse the divisive approach.

Support for Non-Hindu Entities

Under the Modi government, there have been reported instances of support for non-Hindu entities, which critics argue detract from the focus on Hindu issues. For example, the government has supported cow protection movements in ways that critics see as disingenuous, while also facilitating alliances with Islamic organisations.

Temporary Alliances and Policies

The BJP and its allies have entered into various temporary alliances and policies that have been criticized for not aligning with Hindu interests. For instance, the Commonwealth Education Act in 2014 was seen as a setback for Hindu cultural values.

Impact on Institutions and Leadership

The impact of these policies extends to institutions and leadership within the Hindu community. The Bharatiya Janata Sangh (RSS), a key Hindu nationalist organisation, has been accused of hijacking and subverting genuine Hindu organisations. This includes the Hindu Mahasabha, VHP, Bajrang Dal, and other groups that have seen their positions altered to serve broader political ends.

Leadership and Backstabbing

Leaders within Hindu organisations have also been hit, with arrests, defamations, and assaults reported. Figures like Praveen Togadia, Yogi Adityanath, and many others have faced legal challenges and public scrutiny. The accusation of backstabbing, dishonesty, and deception has become a recurring theme in discussions of these organisations' leadership.

Social and Political Fabric

The alleged efforts to divide Hindu society and create divisions along caste lines have been seen as undermining the social fabric. These efforts have included the dilution of traditional Hindu social structures and the promotion of communal awards that critics see as divisive.

Conclusion

The relationship between Hindu organisations and the current Indian government has been marked by a series of contentious actions and policies. While the Modi government has championed certain causes, critics argue that these actions have led to a loss of ethical standards and a more aggressive, divisive approach that has impacted Hindu communities negatively.

References

For further reading on these topics, see:

RSS AUR HINDU DHARMA - KRIPATRIJI, Hindi TIME FOR STOCK TAKING - SITA RAM, English BJP BIS VIS Hindu Resurgence - Koenaraad Elst, English Sangh Parivaar ki Rajniti - Shankar Sharan, Hindi