Introduction
In a deeply alarming development, the latest issue of "Voice of Khurasan," a magazine associated with the notorious Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist group, has unleashed a torrent of inflammatory rhetoric and explicit calls for violence against India, its leadership, and the Hindu community. This provocative publication has reignited tensions and raised grave concerns over the potential resurgence of extremist ideologies and their dangerous implications for the region's security.
Image Source: asianet newsable
The Provocative Content
The controversial magazine features a section specifically aimed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Hindus, and Hindu leaders, openly advocating for violence against the Hindu population and accusing Indian Hindu leaders of harboring anti-Muslim sentiments. The cover page article, titled "O Polytheist Indian Kings! Be ready to face Mahmud Ghaznavi again!" sets the tone for the publication's inflammatory narrative.
Incitement to Violence
In a chilling call to action, the article urges Islamists to initiate violent jihad against India and its leaders, drawing parallels with historical Islamic conquests as a justification for violence against Hindus. The article reads, "Hit the Indian polytheists with cars, cut their stomachs with knives, burn temples, houses, cars, property, and crops, target crowded places, and show them that the Ummah of the Prophet Muhammad is still alive." It further calls upon Islamists worldwide to attack India if Indian Muslims are unable to do so, stating, "If the Muslims in India are not able to overcome these polytheists, the gates of all the Wilayat of the Islamic State are yours to advance."
Targeting Hindus and Indian Leadership
The ISIS-backed publication delves into a narrative of global conflict, positioning Islam against what it terms as "perceived enemies," with India prominently featured among them. In a sweeping accusation, the article alleges a unified front of "disbelievers from both East and West" working to undermine the Islamic Ummah. The extremist group levels serious charges, claiming non-Muslims are occupying Muslim territories, dishonoring Muslim women, and disrespecting Islamic Sharia. However, the magazine also turns its critical gaze inward, suggesting that the Muslim community itself bears some responsibility, contending that Muslims have become overly attached to worldly pursuits and harbor a fear of death, which, according to the publication, hinders their participation in Jihad.
The publication takes a particularly provocative stance against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), labeling them as oppressors of Muslims. It controversially glorifies historical figures such as Muhammad bin Qasim and Mahmud Ghaznavi, infamous for their invasions of the Indian subcontinent centuries ago, and advocates for a resurgence of their conquests in modern times. The article explicitly calls upon contemporary Muslims to "reclaim" the Indian subcontinent through violent jihad.
Targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi
In a targeted attack, the ISIS-backed publication singles out Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, branding him as a fervent opponent of Islam. The extremist group employs rhetoric reminiscent of liberal critiques, accusing Modi and the BJP of mistreating Indian Muslims. A key point of contention highlighted in the article is the construction of the Bhavya Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, following the court-ordered removal of what the magazine refers to as the Babri Masjid.
The publication further alleges that PM Modi has mocked Islamic rituals and policies, characterizing his administration as an extremist Hindu nationalist regime that subjugates Muslims. It also claims that Modi Ji labeled Muslims as "infiltrators" during an election speech, echoing a controversial interpretation of his words propagated by certain political opponents and activist groups. However, it's important to note that at the time, various entities, including some liberal groups, Indian Islamists, and the Congress party, were accused of spreading misinformation by suggesting PM Modi had referred to all Indian Muslims as infiltrators. In reality, the Prime Minister's comments were directed at illegal immigrants entering India from countries like Bangladesh and Myanmar, rather than Indian Muslim citizens.
Derogatory Comments on Ram Mandir
The ISIS-backed magazine takes a disturbing stance against the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, urging Muslims to target the temple. It makes unsubstantiated claims about activities at the site, alleging, "Cows and idols are now worshipped on that blessed land of the mosque, and there also, vulgar songs, alcohol, and obscene parties are being held to further humiliate Muslims." The publication expresses strong disapproval of the widespread participation in the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony held in January 2024, attended by Prime Minister Modi and other prominent figures from various sectors, stating, "Famous Indian film actors, the wealthy, politicians, and even Modi himself participated in the opening ceremony and called the decision to change Babri Masjid to Ram Mandir fair and full of justice."
Targeting Nupur Sharma and Madhvi Latha Kompella
The ISIS-backed publication has reignited controversy by targeting former BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma, referencing her alleged remarks that sparked widespread debate. The magazine's article indirectly mentions these comments, describing them as deeply offensive, and uses the incident to justify calls for violent action against India. This renewed focus on Sharma coincides with her recent limited public appearances, including her congratulatory message to PM Modi on his third consecutive general election victory. The extremist group frames such incidents as evidence of a broader pattern of disrespect towards Islam and Muslims by Indian political leaders, using this narrative to fuel their radical agenda.
However, it's crucial to contextualize the original controversy surrounding Sharma's remarks. Her statements, which echoed assertions made by some Islamic scholars including Zakir Naik, were made in response to Tasleem Rehmani's comments about Lord Shiva and the Shivling discovered at the Gyanvapi premises during a Times Now debate. The situation escalated when Mohammad Zubair of AltNews shared an edited clip of Sharma's comments, omitting the context of her response. This edited version led to a barrage of threats against Sharma, including rape and death threats, as well as calls for "Sar Tan se Juda" (beheading).
In a concerning development, Madhvi Latha Kompella, the BJP candidate who challenged AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi in the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections from Hyderabad, has become a new target of extremist rhetoric. Despite her unsuccessful bid, Kompella's campaign notably unsettled the AIMIM cadre, compelling Owaisi to personally engage in street-level campaigning. The ISIS-backed publication has now focused on Kompella, referencing her alleged arrest in 2023 for remarks against Muslims. This incident is being framed as evidence of systemic anti-Muslim sentiment within the BJP, with the extremist group using it to bolster their narrative of oppression and justify calls for violent action.
Calls for Terrorism and Violent Jihad
The ISIS-backed publication takes a dangerous turn by explicitly calling for violent action. It urges Muslims in India to engage in acts of terrorism, including assassinations and bombings, presenting these as religious obligations to avenge perceived injustices against the Muslim community. The article glorifies violent jihad and advocates for attacks on Hindu temples, public places, and political figures, as well as the destruction of idols and targeting of those it deems enemies of Islam.
In a particularly inflammatory statement, the article declares, "In general, the Indian polytheists and cow-worshipping fools are inexorably hostile to Islam, and the enmity of Narendra Modi and the BJP party is exactly like the enmity of Pharaoh with the Bani Israel. In India today, about 220 million Muslim people are spending nights full of horror and barbarism in slavery and subjugation to Hindus."
The Dangerous Implications
The incendiary content of the ISIS-backed magazine has raised serious concerns about India's national security. Widely circulated on Telegram channels and various social media platforms including Facebook, the publication's ideological justification for terrorist acts poses a significant threat by potentially inspiring lone-wolf attacks and coordinated terrorist activities. The specific targeting of high-profile figures like Prime Minister Modi, former BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma, and BJP candidate Madhvi Latha Kompella, along with calls for attacks on religious sites, elevates the risk of high-profile incidents that could cause widespread fear and destabilization.
Conclusion
In light of these explicit threats, authorities are faced with the urgent need to implement robust counter-terrorism measures. The article serves as a stark reminder of the complex security challenges India faces in the digital age. The combination of targeted threats against political leaders and public figures, coupled with general calls for violence against non-Muslims and attacks on religious sites, underscores the multifaceted nature of the threat. As the situation unfolds, security agencies are likely to intensify their efforts to monitor extremist communications, enhance protection for potential targets, and develop strategies to counter the spread of radical ideologies online.
The chilling rhetoric of the ISIS-backed publication is a grave reminder of the ongoing battle against extremism and the need for unwavering vigilance to safeguard the nation's security and the principles of religious harmony and coexistence. Authorities must remain proactive in addressing the root causes of radicalization, while also implementing robust measures to counter the influence of extremist propaganda and prevent potential acts of violence. The Indian government and civil society must unite in condemning such inflammatory rhetoric and reaffirm their commitment to upholding the values of pluralism, tolerance, and respect for all religions. Interfaith dialogue and initiatives aimed at promoting cultural understanding and countering hate speech should be prioritized to foster an environment of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
Moreover, the global community must collaborate in tackling the threat posed by extremist ideologies and their dissemination through various channels, including social media platforms. International cooperation and intelligence sharing are crucial in identifying and disrupting potential terrorist networks and their propaganda machinery. The situation underscores the need for a comprehensive strategy that addresses not only the immediate security concerns but also the underlying socio-economic and political factors that contribute to the spread of extremism. Initiatives focused on education, community engagement, and socio-economic development can play a vital role in preventing the radicalization of vulnerable segments of society.
As India continues to grapple with this complex challenge, it is imperative for all stakeholders – the government, security agencies, civil society, and the international community – to work together in a concerted effort to counter the dangerous rhetoric and ideologies propagated by groups like ISIS. Only through a multifaceted approach that combines robust security measures, community engagement, and a commitment to upholding democratic values can the nation effectively safeguard its citizens and ensure a future built on peace, harmony, and respect for all.
Comentários