Indian Muslim Blog: News And Views about Indian Muslims

Communalism to Criminal mindset: Bigotry, hate speeches, divisive propaganda hurts society

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:43:00 +0000

Communalism is first step. Then minds become criminal and that is the most worrying aspect for any society.

If X commits theft in your house, will you go to his house & commit theft?

For example, if a woman is molested, accused must be booked, not that a woman of other side be molested in revenge.

It is sick to take revenge and become a criminal. However, it becomes acceptable when mob mentality takes over. It leads to rise in dirty thought process.

The casual hateful remarks become common. The level keeps going up.

Media groups want eyeballs and hence headlines are given with the aim to draw attention.

Thousands of crimes take place in a country daily but one is selectively taken up. Clear sides are taken and people become so brainwashed that they refuse to see reason.

Entire groups are seen as enemies and then all energies are directed against targeted group.

This level of hateful behaviour makes people blind and they keep getting radicalized.

Most often it's not in the interest of the people but in the moment, whipped up sentiments, passion and anger appeal more.

If poison is injected in a part, it spreads to entire body. Hate too spreads & grips all, weakens nation.

People know it but when bug of bigotry bites, men transform. The tendency to 'otherize' comes with majoritarianism & it destroys society.

The situation becomes critical when organs of state turn blind eye and leaders become complicit.

Or when media becomes a participant in the dirty project to create wedge between communities.

If politicians incentivize communalism, many loafers emerge and the law & order goes to a toss. The ramifications are severe.

Sometimes, ten or twenty years later, a few people among those who have spend their lives drowned in hate, realize that it was the time they wasted.

Many others still won't as people like to justify their acts as accepting own fault is rare.

If you want a better future for yourself, your family and next generation, introspect and act against hate, to save nation and society.

Unjust, Unfair: A country's president abducted, another country's supreme leader assassinated, does any international law exist?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 05:31:00 +0000

Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

A country's president and his wife were abducted and taken from away from their nation.

Within days, another nation that is faraway, across the Atlantic ocean, in another continent, is attacked and its supreme leader is assassinated.

Is that how the world should run? Isn't it extremely unjust, unfair and flouting the norms! But this has happened in recent weeks and there is not enough condemnation or outrage at the blatant attacks on two countries.

For almost 120 years, US has been involved in forcing regime changes, supporting coups and toppling governments across the world. Nothing has changed. The old pattern continues even in 2026.

'Might is right' can't be the way world should run. That's not a proper system for a world order in the twenty first century. There should be a certain respect for sovereignty and semblance of international law.

Ironically, the media mechanism is such that words like 'attack' or 'invasion' are not even used when a super power or a rogue nation commits a strike in Asia, Africa, Latin America or any other region.

For decades, wars have been forced upon countries just due to the whims of certain people in big nations who happen to sit at the powerful posts and wish to control resources or just want to distract citizens from an issue.

We have the news agencies, the 'major' newspapers from New York, Washington and London, publishing reports with such headlines that tend to 'normalize' such attacks. The fact that sovereignty of nations is breached doesn't bother them.

Who gives authority to any country to do a 'regime change' in another nation? The established and renowned media houses that had justified Iraq war, have once again acted in the exactly same and notorious way.

Among newspapers like New York Times, Washington Post, TV channels like Fox, CNN and the agencies like AP and Reuters, do we see any change? Any questions about Israel and its nuclear status while publishing headlines about Iran that had its program inspected and was ready for deal.

Words like 'attack' or 'invasion' are missing, the terms are easily replaced by 'capture' and 'strike'. No special editorials or front page articles against wars and unprovoked attacks. No outrage when over hundred school children were killed in Iran.

Remember, how world leaders came out in solidarity over incidents of violence and justice in the past? But on this occasion, everything is buried under the carpet and hushed up. It is clear that some nations have the power to get away with everything.

The attacks on Venezuela and Iran have clearly shown the lack of any proper system. Most countries are silent or avoid taking stand. Media is 'compromised' and can go to any length to twist information, support aggression and justify war.

The attack on Gaza took place when Biden was president and the atrocities continued during Donald Trump's regime too. Trump had earlier promised that he would not take America to wars in faraway countries. But this didn't happen.

In fact, many countries have been targeted in the last couple of years. Strikes were ordered in Iraq, Somalia, Yemen and several other countries during his term.

Israel manages to drag US to fight it's war for dominance in Middle East, Iran is again the target

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 12:20:00 +0000

Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

Let's analyze the situation that has arisen after America and Israel launched fresh attacks on Iran, starting the war in 2026.

Actually, it can be summed up in this sentence: 'Again, Israel manages to drag US to fight a war'.

That's the hold of Israel on America that it can persuade the superpower to fight for Israel's regional interests. It wants United States of America to do the job and help establish Israel's dominance in the entire Middle East.

US agrees and attacks Iran. America apparently has no choice but to listen and act when Israel expects something. The cycle continues. Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya and so on. America is again in the midst of a war that may not end soon. Its image hurt, it devalues itself. Across the world, it is now seen as a puppet of Tel Aviv.

Having said this, the reality is that due to America's support, Israel wields clout. Many countries in Gulf, irrespective of their stand and rhetoric, maintain relations with Israel or are indirectly under the control of US-Israel's axis. They also have American bases.

In Gaza, the same superpower was witness to killings and didn't act despite tens of thousands dying and a large number of them being children. Over the last few years, certain Middle East nations have preferred to remain silent and were more eager to normalize relations with Israel, even aided Tel Aviv, with supplies and maintaining diplomatic relations.

Israel's nuclear status is never an issue at the international stage. It is not under any pressure or made to declare it's nuclear status or asked to give up its weapons. So much bloodshed took place in Gaza but there was no accountability and the invasion shows that the bloodlust remains even after the death of tens of thousands, a large number of them were children.

US is thousands of kilometers away from America, there is the vast Atlantic ocean in the middle and practically no direct threat but the regime in Tehran is still termed as a threat to America.

One after the other, countries in Middle East have been destroyed. If Israel doesn't like a regime, US media fervently starts a propaganda operation to term the nation as enemy. Of late, Iran, that had refused to be subjugated and remained independent, became the target.

Even a decade ago, American newspapers were publishing reports like 'Iran a few months away from nuclear…'. Despite Iran opening its facilities for inspection and signing agreements, Iran was shown as a threat while Israel's nuclear status is seldom questioned.

In fact, this propaganda goes back to the first decade of the century. It never stops. Media groups are often more than eager to support Israel's version and push its narrative as akin to America's national interest.

In Asia and Africa, the propaganda outlets in New York, Washington and London are increasingly seen as the arms of the Empire and not independent media organizations.

Their aim is to justify any action and demonize any country or leader. From the era of Vietnam to the numerous attempts to change regimes all over the world, this process never stops.

They justified all lies to pave way for justification of US, UK and allies' attack on Iraq by peddling lies regarding weapons of mass destruction (WMDs).

They did in Libya and they do it everywhere. They casually misinterpret a phrase or a statement and deliberately misinform readers to give a false impression about any faraway country that never had any interest in conflict with US, let alone attacking it.

The aim is to control resources, the objective is to establish hegemony and the motto is defeat of any nation doesn't act as per whims of the gang of the powerful countries.

Leaders of the World: Role of Tunku Abdul Rahman in transforming Malaysia in 20th century

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 16:10:00 +0000

By Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

Tunku Abdul Rahman was one of the leading personalities of the twentieth century.

He was a prominent leader within the country and also a statesman at the international stage, apart from prime minister of Malaysia.

The founding father of the country, he played an instrumental role in the birth of the nation after a long period of colonial rule.

He understood the challenges well and brought the diverse communities together, henceforth paving way for a bright future of the people and for the progress of his county.

During the second World War, Japan attacked Malaya and defeated the British. It was in this period that his concern towards his people was visible. Later, he visited London, finishes his law degree and returned.

Once in active politics, he brought UMNO and Malay Chinese Association (MCA) together. The formation of the Alliance was an important step. Tunku was now touring all over Malaya and was gaining in popularity.

The changes were swift during the 1950s. It was an eventful decade. He became president of the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO). Later, he went on to become the chief minister and home minister of Malaya.

He led a mission to secure independence from Britain and after attaining freedom, he worked on his way towards formation of the federation of Malaysia. In 1963, Malaysia was created as an independent nation.

Under Tunku's leadership, the Alliance won elections. For a country that was coming out of colonial rule, a visionary leader who was acceptable to all the sections of society, was needed.

He was a leader who fought for his country's independence and later played major role in transforming Malaysia as an important voice on the international stage.

He saw Malaysia as a melting pot of diverse cultures, different races and wished to promote multiculturalism in order to foster harmony and strengthen the country. There were many obstacles in his way. The racial tensions had come to fore in 1969.

But even after relinquishing power, he remained a major figure. He took interest in diverse fields. Also, had a liking for sports, ranging from soccer to golf. Born in 1903, Tunku saw the world change dramatically.

He was witness to the world wars and the end of the empires. Dozens of independent countries had appeared on the world map. He was the man who is credited for laying foundation of the modern Malaysia.

From an administrator in Kedah to the prime minister of Malaysia and a world leader, it was a long journey. Kuala Lumpur was no longer a place to missed on the world map. Tunku was the first secretary general of Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC).

Also, he was a key figure in formation of ASEAN--Association of South East Asian Nations. Tunku passed away in 1990. A man who remained active all his life, he is rightly seen as one of the prominent leaders of the world in the twentieth century.

How propaganda is used as a tool to manipulate minds, defame and defeat the opponent: Misusing media to manufacture public opinion

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 10 Jan 2026 08:49:00 +0000

By Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

Propaganda is a big tool and organized propaganda is a mechanism that is used by powerful groups, societies, communities, leaders, rulers, business tycoons and sections, with different aims.

It is used to weaken an opponent, defeat the adversary or rival. Politics, economics, power and clout, international or national standing, it has an impact on all.

Certain country or society, race or big group can be blamed or defamed by misuse of media and through negative propaganda. If you constantly relay propaganda, it affects the people..

.. and can even change the opinion of masses. The extent depends on investment in this exercise and the availability of plaint media. Actually, it is such a powerful method that it is used as a tool in statecraft.

If a firm or an entity gets maligned, the reputation is hurt. Similarly, if false news or fake information about a state or a country, a geographical region or a group of people is constantly aired, then it affects both sides.

People who are blamed, often don't realize that it is not truth, but a planned defamation campaign. They too start believing and this weakens them. Certain entities and groups have a command over this 'skill' and have mastered the tactics.

Morale can be affected, thoughts can be manipulated and the people may be forced to think about an aspect and take it seriously, though it may not have much truth in reality.

Planned and organized propaganda is used to show a side as progressive, strong and noble or a side as weak, regressive, bad and evil. The constant barrage of misinformation, affects minds.

Along with media, rumor mongers and professional propagandists, conspiracy theorists and all sorts of people involved in shady acts or dirty tricks may be 'used' to create a false narrative or a discourse that suits the entity that is funding the project to spread propaganda.

Often the media that is termed as 'mainstream' is also part of it, due to the corporate interests and media house owners' tilt, greed, interest or pressures. Defaming one and praising other over a long time, does change the balance in society.

Hence, it is important to understand the propaganda and see how media groups might be involved in such practices. A battle may be won or lost, without being fought on the ground, just because of the negative publicity or rumors.

If your opponent is constantly involved in negative propaganda against you, it may be wrong but people feel that there must be some truth in the charges. When such misinformation comes from multiple places, people are bound to believe it.

The reason is that through propaganda, a doubt is created in minds. Then people feel, 'there must be some truth, after all, it is being said again and again. Hence, there must be some element of truth'. Over a long period, it becomes an accepted version.

That's the victory of propaganda. But the side that is involved in it, uses money and funds the propagandists. However, other side may not even have basic media, let alone, hiring PR managers or publicity campaigners.

Always remember that the entities, groups, nations and firms that have media power and also invest in publicity as well as propaganda, use tactics to conquer & crush their rival. Embedded journalism is just one part of it.

There are lobbies and companies, which offer their services. The agencies that promote a nation or a race, a geographical region or a religion, for a price. But what about those who have no propaganda, in fact, have no stake in media? Truth won't matter. You get defamed &'defeated'.

I may sound 'repetitive' but it must be repeated as it needs to be understood--Drilled in mind! Professional propagandists act with a purpose. They keep circulating falsehood, wild and fake information. But they keep doing it.

Hence, some people do fall for it and a section feels that there must be some reality, as 'many' are talking about it. That's how propaganda works to some extent. Every society or group has a mechanism to 'say' certain things and has particular aims. Hence, they ensure that they have their media machinery apart from propagandists.

They do their job and even if they don't get success, they manage to create a perception for a section of their own people and a section of others too. The aims could be unethical or nefarious but the world is harsh and the fittest has to use multiple ways to keep self, ahead, while stopping a prospective rival.

The point is that others do and it is not about ethics alone, as propaganda is always part of statecraft. Real point is that do you have own media machinery, its multiple wings or your own propaganda to tackle the professional propagandists of the other side?

Targeting a group or community is rulers' ace strategy to divide masses, turn majority hateful towards minority: Divided society stops asking questions from rulers, US to UK same mindset

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 02 Nov 2025 02:39:00 +0000

Targeting a minority group or any social group is a sure-shot way for ruling party or a ruler to remain in powerful. As society gets divided on religions or racist lines, they are no longer united.

The people see the other groups of same society as 'enemy'. The jealousy, the anger, constant hatred makes them feel that the other group is getting more dominating. They keep comparing and get obsessed. When the society is not united and get addicted to fanaticism or bigotry, they forget asking questions that need to be asked from the government.

Either America or Britain, both countries are witnessing the same situation. 'Immigrant' or 'Immigration' i.e. race and religion have emerged as key factors in this game. Interests of individual communities are seen, not the entire society and country.

The fear, scare, propaganda ensures that people remain trapped and are ready to compromise their future due to the narrow mindset and the brainwashing, apart from poisonous views and prejudices spread by media.

The owners of social media platforms are racist or bigot, having tilt towards right-wing, then you can imagine how easily a narrative can be spread even in countries like United States and England [Britain]. When society is divided, they no longer fix responsibility of leaders and go with the wave.

Rulers love it when they are not held accountable and the public is more interested in hateful agenda, rather than questioning the ruling class. A few points below to understand how this madness starts and reaches the level of extreme hatred among groups in a society.

1. In many regions, a tried & tested formula is to 'identify' a few smaller groups and be in constant attacking mode against them--blaming them and spreading propaganda against them.

2. Certain individuals would emerge and repeat lies about the minority group, weave stories and generalize, demonize the latter. More people will start believing it, due to social media.

3. Also, the minorities would be blamed for any and every damn reason, otherized and hated. It gives the local majority and its people a 'reason to live for' & it works as the 'majority' never likes to introspect or take blame for its own failures.

4. Majority is powerful and owns most of the local, traditional as well as new media. Hence, the prejudiced views against Black or Muslim, Arab or South Asian, African or any group with a different homeland or religion, will go 'mainstream' with ease. Believe it, accept it, as 'everyone' is saying it.

5. The politicians, too, like such rhetoric. It's a majoritarian mindset and the discourse actually borders on fascism as well as fueling bigotry and discrimination.

6. In coming days, I will give examples with data to explain how this happens and how deluded the people can become, in a short span of time.

7. Hate, xenophobia, racism, worst emotions are directed at certain group of people and in short-term it does unite locals, a section that indeed feels insecure.

8. Long-term, it damages the country and its society, economy, even those who felt that they were going to benefit and had gained prominence by raising these issues.

9. Offense is the best defense? We have heard and known this sentence, a lot. But, in the last few decades, this phrase has acquired a totally different meaning.

10. It is used as a strategy to deny rights to people, perpetrate injustices and is used as propaganda to create a narrative that completely brainwashes people.

11. The vast majority starts to feel besieged, gets obsessed with vague ideas and weird fear about future. When a group is identified, it becomes easy for leaders to manipulate public.

12. If there is any issue and government wants to divert public attention, they have the perfect alternative. They know how public can be made to focus on another issue. They had identified one group earlier, this time other group and next time yet another group.

Just make your 'influencers' go out and start blaming any section. Media will amplify the hate and all main issues will be forgotten. Governments love such societies that have more interest in hating each other, rather, than asking questions about corruption, huge money transfers, illegal actions and siphoning off funds or other corrupt practices. Who wants jobs or healthcare? Society enjoys the feeling of power when it targets a section. Petty.

This method and the system is replicated again and again, region after region, country after country as people do have a tendency to fall for conspiracy theories.

[Shams Ur Rehman Alavi]

The Towns Of Awadh: Qasbahs in Uttar Pradesh's central region depicted in bilingual Urdu, English map

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 02 Nov 2025 01:01:00 +0000

Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

This is a map that shows the qasbahs or historically important towns in Awadh region of Uttar Pradesh. In the traditional sense, the town were no a city but important place, a step above the rural place, apart from its own uniqueness.

Most towns in and around Lucknow developed in medieval era and later. They evolved as centres of learning too. The qasbahs of Awadh were hubs of knowledge and literature apart from business and were seen as important places for hundreds of villages in vicinity.

Clans and powerful families settled here to lead their life in an environment they could create and change, away from the big cities that were over populated and also had a fast, crazy life. Most of these qashabs or towns carried the old world charm, a tinge of modern world as well as scent of rural India.

Often, the families that had Qazis, Muftis, military men, land owning families or litterateurs, didn't want involvement in the politics and palace intrigues or sectarian issues other than politics of the court in the capital during the era of a Nawab or a Raja, and preferred to stay away in a town where they stayed in lush green environment and could have a much relaxed and enjoyable life.

The qasbahs were not just hub of Urdu poetry and literature but also had their own economy. One place was known for a fruit, other for cultivation of a particular crop, yet another for lac work or handicraft, unique sweets or a particular handicraft.

READ: Qasbahs of Awadh, satellite towns of Lucknow, that protected its culture

This is a basic map of towns or Qasbahs in Awadh region of Uttar Pradesh in Urdu, for geography students and map enthusiasts. It is purely non-commercial and for mere representational purpose. Just for educational purpose.

The aim is that children, particularly, Urdu speakers and the students in Urdu medium schools in rest of the country, are able to identify places, their names, location, distance from state capital, and seek information.

Apart from towns, the boundaries and the names are visible. Urdu is one of the two state languages of Uttar Pradesh, along with Hindi. Hence, there is need for map too. One, often finds that there is a lack of maps in Urdu.

Hence, we are putting up the maps on the internet. This map is just for illustrative and representational purpose. The figure is not to scale and does not claim to represent geographical boundaries.

READ: District map of Uttar Pradesh in Urdu for educational purpose

This map mostly shows the towns in Lucknow district and around. As you can read the names--Atrauli, Sandila, Haiderabad, Kursi, Behta, Dewa, Jaggaur, Satrikh, Maal, Jindaur, Haiderganj, ITaunja, Amethi, Kakori, Nagram, Kakori, Mohaan, Malihabad and others.

In Western UP and other regions too, towns were prominent and had a bustling life. From Nehtaur in the western part of Uttar Pradesh to Bilgram in Awadh, prominent personalities in diverse fields emerged from the qasbahs of north India.

How one becomes prisoner of identity: Fixed social identity that turns man towards hate and rivalry with other sections

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 14:09:00 +0000

Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

One's social identity is a result of multiple factors. But, a man often views self [and is seen by others too] as representative of a strong & fixed social identity.

This identity that's either inherited, worn, chosen or thrust, is lifelong & the person often considers himself in a particular segment though he may be at the same time, part of many other circles, but he doesn't realize or doesn't want to accept.

Even in same religion and region, I see how followers of sects and sub-sects, behave and look at each other with animosity, though at times what they claim about self is absolutely against the core principles of that sect too.

It's just because of geographical location, family or clan, that a particular thought about the crafted identity emerges and it is so hard, inflexible that everything else is ignored.

Decades pass and the person passionately carries this sense of identity, often like mobsters' groups. Battles are fought in the minds and the passion to be standing against others, keeps man going with the wind.

Do we honestly stand for our identity without hurting others? Is our aim just to have certain respectability and gain acceptance in a little or local circle to boost own ego. Clearly, there is also an element of hope in terms of 'validation'.

Locally, when one is part of any group, the adherence to its ideology is the binding factor. The group now needs the fear of other group(s) or talk about growth of the 'other', to keep its members remain united and be actively supporting own group.

The radicalism as seen among right-wing groups of different sections, is a manifestation of this tendency. In South Asia, it is increasingly become an issue as the suspicion of the 'other'--any group that is not seen as 'mainstream', is used to motivate cadre to spread hatred against them.

Or fight is for a greater cause of overall public good or it is a collective narcissism of groups and their friction and due to petty rivalries, jealousies & existing tendencies of groupism among the humans...?

If level of mistrust towards other group and this communalism or level of hate remains up, the youth will keep joining you to feel the sense of strength.

This is an established method to gain members and keep them in your grip. In 1980s, separate right-wing groups were formed and they kept on growing--starting with cow vigilantism to attacks.

Then, they targeted 'Western values' and celebration of St Valentine's Day. The level kept rising with each generation and then the mobs took law in own hands and fanatic wings became 'mainstream'.

So much that media started referring to them as 'fighters for the religion' or as 'guardians of cows' and 'defenders of the faith'. That's how democratic setup was hijacked from within.

United States of America's role in world order: Leadership reflects intent for peace or disruption, destruction and wars?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 18:46:00 +0000

In modern era, most of us are quite well informed and a large section knows but many still fall for propaganda, when it comes to understanding international affairs. '

The reason is that overwhelming influence of the dominant media from one or two countries, the strong control and also soft power of the global superpower.

Throughout 20th century, this super power toppled regimes or led wars, nuked Hiroshima & Nagasaki, caused deaths of millions in brutal invasions from wars in Vietnam to Iraq, Afghanistan to Libya, now Iran directly or through proxy or a rogue regime.

Thousands of kids died in Gaza but no US' intervention or bid to save lives. Days turned into weeks, then months, a year and so on, but scale of destruction and killings were not stopped. One strong message and 50,000 lives could have been saved in Gaza.

Unfortunately, the global order is such that a veto or just one nation's support, can make such a big difference--lasting peace or constant chaos. Misusing media power to term X or Y country as demon, target, then other & other, still claim to be leader of the land of free world?

If any nation allows atrocities, gives a complete free hand to a regime, remains more focused on geopolitics and sells weapons or ignore all international norms to act as they did in Guantanamo Bay, then where is the morality?

Isn't weapon industry for this purpose! Never for peace, just a mask. The global super cop has its propaganda media that divides this world into--west and east, as if rule of law exists in one region and no rule of law in other. But how cleverly, this is engineered.

The World Wars that killed tens of millions were also fought in Europe, on Western soil, however, so easily the media dismissed and defames Asian or African nations.

Create any story or use false claims to invade countries, directly, or through proxy or pet regime?

US needs to evaluate its role in the world, especially, when it comes to world peace. The Unipolar global leadership era when it was easy to get away by any weird claim or ruse, and commit atrocity and leave a trail of destruction, is over.

Is Elon Musk influencing global opinion: Modulating minds, controlling society to capture global narrative

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 12:20:00 +0000

By Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

This post is about an influential man and it needs to be read, seriously.

As we see how Elon Musk labels groups, cleverly re-packages his 'thoughts' and sell them to appear as 'patriotic' feelings or racial supremacism in order to influence minds, the extent of his actions are getting more clear and visible.

It seems that Musk is doing it systematically--one group at a time, then next and so on. It is not fair.

Anyone who is otherizing communities, in a manner that it could drive a wedge in society, must be confronted. This is our job as a journalist.

Just see his posts. There is a lot of exaggeration and the tweets that can create panic, turn groups against each other, revealing his thoughts about one group after the other group, in order to steadily strengthen his hold over narrative.

Perhaps, there is a wish to control everything in the world--narrative, countries, people's opinion, power, be leader of wester world, and have his 'will' prevail over all.

All the rhetoric that the Western White man likes to hear, is reflected in his posts on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter. It is deeply problematic and I feel that this must not happen at this level.

My personal view is that a person who was once seen as a tech genius, working for overall good & an innovator, is now, seen as a person with deep racist hate. The manner in which he is generalizing and expressing his views about communities, is a tragedy.

Right now, he appears to be possessed. Tears of kids in Gaza didn't seem to affect him & he supported Israel. Earlier, also, it was constant anti-immigrant rant from him, otherwise it is about the Blacks or Africans or the focus on 'border'. When he recently posted a black guy's video, it was seen as a dog whistle against Africans and the blacks.

My view and that of many others like me [though these may count or not, affect or not], is that xenophobia and hatred must be stopped. If there is extraordinary level, then we must be alarmed. It must be placed on record, mentioned and it must be known, lest it's forgotten that how a tech company owner who also builds cars, sends rockets to space, can come to this level.

The liking once a few had for him, even a cent of trust, all he has damaged himself. As he owns the platform, he uses it in a way, he wishes to use it. But it is not an ongoing Crusade or a civilizational war. It is really surprising that a person, who is himself an immigrant from South Africa, can be take such harsh anti-immigration line.

That too in US--the land of the immigrants. Influential people whose words can affect lives of people in other countries, as propaganda and hate do affect different sections of society. Majorities often blame minorities and peddle hate against the latter. These include conspiracy theories and misleading claims.

That's the cause of concern for people in any country. Unfortunately, democracy too has failed to solve the issue. If majority in any sense--race, language, religion, class, community or section, is made to feel insecure because of 'growing minorities' or propaganda about the 'other', then the result is horrible.

Germany witnessed it in the last century. Hitler was an elected leader and a popular leader. The level of torture the children and women, suffer in Palestine, has been one of the worst in centuries and your point of view, is well-known.

Actually, it appears that 'Apartheid' or Nazi ideology pr White Supremacist belief can't be owned up at this level, so one after the other, targeting each group and otherizing in a way that it is seen as 'Patriotism' or MAGA mission.

There may be 125,000 rapes in US and tens of thousands of murders in his own country. No one even needs to cherry pick, just start posting names and photographs of 200-300 of the rapists and murderers or serial killers and those who shot kids in schools, all will be clear.

Who commits most crimes! But as he has 'reach', he can take a case of Haiti or a case of Honduras, push it daily, ensure that it reached millions, tens of millions.

Man repackages apartheid, but separates it as 'anti-Black', 'anti-Muslim', 'anti-Africa' & 'anti-immigrant' sentiment, time to time, repackages, all disguised in patriotism or MAGA mission. No public personality can admit to be Hater, Racist, Zionist or Fascist, believer in Apartheid.

So, he may play the game differently and pose as a patriot. Making other groups feel 'insecure' & on the basis of it, turning into a cult leader, strengthening his voice through conspiracy theories that have too much impact, and ultimate aim to have a huge bunch of followers, 'say' in world affairs, misusing his money and platform, ultimately to gain more and more money, prominence and power.

READ: Modulating Minds, Spreading prejudices, Elon Musk aims to control the world through global opinion?

Modulating minds, controlling global narrative: Is Elon Musk spreading prejudices, pushing a right-wing agenda to control masses' minds?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 14:51:00 +0000

By Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

Billionaire and social media owner Elon Musk has come in for sharp criticism on internet.

The man who didn't show much emotion when schools and hospitals were targeted in Gaza and tens of thousands were killed, but is now frantically pushing a divisive agenda.

As he owns an influential social media platform, X, [formerly Twitter], he is supposed to behave responsibly. But, he has lately been sharing controversial views, bordering on hate and having the potential to demonize entire communities.

The racist and xenophobic overtones are clearly discernible. As he owns the platform, that can control a user's reach, his own tweets seem to have been exempt from any restriction and reach millions, giving him a disproportionate edge, over the rest.

Not the Epstein island culprits, but brings other and old issues in other countries to raise fingers, intervene in other nations and subtly demonize entire groups, races and communities.

Intervening in Germany, UK, hate against Africans, blacks, browns, Islamophobia, all is simple. Certain power block also helping him. Aim is to put pressure on the regimes and go for more and more control over the world?

One day, focus on an African in Europe, on the other day about England, not about the supremacist and school shooters or the skeletons in the cupboards of powerful people in own country. If the posts, tweets are seen carefully, it's mostly about race, religion and Asia-Africa, immigrants and 'otherizing' people.

It becomes easy to control minds. It's possible to shift the people's focus off anything if you own media. If 10K whites are booked for offences in year, media has power to relegate to inside pages, but it can pick 10 offences by Black or Hispanic, immigrant or Muslim, splash on Page 1.

This will demonize, damage and devastate those communities, through negative portrayal. Misuse of a big social media platform, to term certain groups or communities as outsider or more prone to committing crimes, without giving data or mentioning statistics, is nothing less than brainwashing of the society.

READ: Complete report on Elon Musk and his hateful posts, Islamophobia and racism

This is horrible. Many prominent personalities have noted how Musk has been going about, his posts going to the next level. If you have a billion or more audience on your platform and you post messages, endlessly, on a spree to push an agenda, it can create tremendous impact.

"Am I detecting a continuous wave of Islamophobic comments and tweets from Elon the past few weeks or is it just me?", wrote Lady Velvet alias Hend F Q who uses the handle @LadyVelvet_HFQ. Just like her worry, many others have posted about the change in Musk's behaviour on X.

Will he realise. Can the world deal with it! Won't this lead to huge shift in public opinion and might pose grave thread to social ties, relations. Such careless demonizing can cause disturbance in societies on ethnic, racial and religious lines. It's not something that should be ignored. [The image is representative, AI generated]

WATCH THE SHORT VIDEO ON MUSK AND HIS ACTIONS

How fascism comes under the garb of nationalism: Inflaming passions through propaganda, claims about 'insecurity' among natives

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 01:45:00 +0000

By Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

A woman tells a story about her child in a class that has students from other backgrounds too. She made it sound emotional and even 'scary'.

Definitely, no kid should feel lonely or hurt. No one should feel offended by others' culture. Acceptance is needed. But I will explain how propaganda is used, lies are relayed, sentimental appeals are made and hateful propaganda is brought under the garb of 'patriotism' and the 'emotional' link is added to turn it more palatable.

Let me explain that how fascism comes wrapped in wild conspiracy theories. Even if a place is 95% white, they can claim to be 'turning into minority'. It's your right to accept or not accept others. But once anyone gets obsessed with the thought of looking at fellow humans as 'them' and 'outsiders', bigotry forces them to make any claim and sound so sweet and innocent but inner soul consumed by hate. Even if 1% outsiders come, you can believe that it is 18%. Yes, it happens, because of manic obsession. Then, there is another issue. Those 1% will come and stay in a part and that part will be labelled as 'ghetto' by your xenophobic media that always does it this way. Such fears and panic spread and no amount of data or clarity, will ever clean the minds that get dirtied or bitten by this 'us versus them' bug. It is natural that in a few schools and colleges, there would be more immigrants or outsiders. But everyone is always a minority in one sense or the other. Country, ethnicity, religion, race, gender and so many other things are involved here. You try to sound passionate and helpless but it's basically hatred that comes out in this form. Right-wing cleverly does it, specialists at it. We are all humans. If you guys want to take this route, be clear, just stay as an island. Discrimination with own species on own planet. How mean and petty! Out of 1,00,000 if 3,000 are 'different', they will be naturally stay somewhere. If you can't bear the sight of a person of different race or feel that there is an invasion, clearly say that you don't like humans who come to this land that you got registered from God and decided to drop here, with the decision to be here, forever. There is a difference between 'not wanting to hear' or 'getting irked because you don't want anyone else'. It's a cunning style and talk of 'my kid or family' not feeling comfortable, because 'other kids and families who have come here', is a crude way that is aimed more to gain sympathy and create scare This actually aims to rouse your feelings and fears. Any complaint must be redressed. There is bullying too, white kids bully whites, browns too do it to their own race and blacks too do it. It is human behaviour. Complaints are made, and there must be immediate action. But open discrimination, anger over presence of the 'other' and deep seated prejudices, the worldview that makes you feel superior and others as unworthy to be around you, is sickening. It happens again and again. Even within one country, it is possible on linguistic or ethnic, religious or regional basis. If you give a race or outsider angle, it is just a soft cushion you adjust behind your back, ready to shoot your inner biases at the other. You don't need to believe me, but fact is that world doesn't function in this way. People who burning with hatred, they and their societies disappear, very fast, because they feel they are entitled to not just own lives but also entire environment, city, sky, streets, world around them, as a CONSTANT, never changing and always remaining same as per their whims. A white serial killer becomes 'disturbed' and immediately after crime, reports appear that he suffered from childhood trauma due to 'parents separation' or any such issue, or even his 'loneliness', all attemps are made in media that he would be humanized and shown as 'just like us' and 'how could he be bad', as 'bad' is always the 'other'. If 'our' guy commits an act, then he is 'from our race', 'our own' and its like family, because if we consider him 'opponent', we'd have to accept that our people can be bad too. No, that would make us own up that our society too has bad apples. Now blame the rest and term them 'outsiders' and put all your own failings in life, all reasons, all blame on rest--issue solved. After all, it's easy to believe that we are angels and we never commit any crime & it's always the other who is at fault. In fact, all the countries engaged in war or colonizing or robbing or sending soldiers to committing massacres in other countries, was just aimed at 'civilizing' (sic) them, and World Wars were fought because you guys were all so simple, naive and civilized, and somewhere read that 'others' fight, so you learnt to fight and killed millions in process. Your eyes, heart and ears are hurt by 'others', you are full of yourself and sorry, there is no solution. In fact, I really like the way you people act. Keep walking this path and make your race safe, keep your land and yourself, amazing and extraordinary. Media loves it, politicians too know this system against 'them' helps as it turns out the worst and most passionate anger from 'locals' who get 'worried about own existence', buy these badly educated inhuman persons' theories, feel they are better than rest, turn hateful and this never stops. Everyone has a brain and they are entitled to nasty thoughts too. They have freedom to choose and world history tells us, what happens to people who have contempt for fellow humans, but present it so 'innocently' as you did. Completely insulating self is also an idea. The best way is to openly accept own prejudiced views, say that you are uncomfortable with 'others' and that there is no need to hide feelings.Tell people that you hate other humans and there won't be any need to work hard to sound noble even as being evil or circuitously reaching this point. 'Blame the vulnerable' and branding the real vulnerable or outsider as a threat, spreading rumours, demonizing them, terming the outsider as an enemy or alien (sic) as if they are coming to get your resources, is shameful. Conceal own petty thoughts and appear as custodian of all great humane values! All is crystal clear now. Racists can't fool everyone, all the time.

Kashmiris open homes, mosques to give shelter to visitors stuck out in the open due to intense cold: Communal Harmony Project-59

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 05:34:00 +0000

This is the latest news, as severe snowfall in the winter, caused a difficult situation for visitors in Kashmir. Nearly 2,000 vehicles got stuck in biting cold and people were left in the lurch.

However, amidst such a situation, Kashmiris opened their houses, mosques for the visitors and tourists trapped in sub-zero [-20, -15]degree temperature amidst snowfall.

This is indeed a good gesture. In fact, it happens a lot. However, it is not reported well. Negative portrayal of Kashmir is common in media.

People must help others. When Kashmiri shawl & dry fruit sellers go to rest of India, they should be treated well. In Lucknow, other cities too, there have been incidents in the past when Kashmiri traders were hassled, harassed and forced to leave.

The most recent incident occurred in Himachal Pradesh. In HP i.e. Shimla or other districts and towns, citizens should stop anyone who mistreats & misbehaves with the traders of Kashmir.

Strengthen national unity and spread harmony by understanding others. Those who write editorials, forget to mention these aspects. We must remember that when we talk about unity and integrity of the country, it should be not just theory, but in practice as well.

One must not thump chest and feel happy if someone gets assaulted or their rights are taken away. We want them 'in mainstream' and for this, we must ensure that they feel at home. Every Indian must shun discrimination and hate.

Be humane, spread positive news, bring communities together & shame the negative people who create divide in society and weaken the nation. If anyone says that this place or this region is not integrated well, they should first introspect and also look at own conduct--our duties.

Rise in racism, anti-immigrant sentiment in the world: Native's claim on country on the basis of majority's race, religion and skin colour

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 29 Dec 2024 10:51:00 +0000

[In view of the recent anti-immigration sentiment in United States and other countries, this article has been written. Ten points, an explanation in this form for easy understanding.

By Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

1. People have no control over own birth and one can be born anywhere as it is not a baby's choice. Sadly, parents' race, religion, country or skin colour, faith, determines a lot.

2. A White Christian in Europe or UK, too is born in his home, and he or she has no control over own birth either. But later in life, the person feels he or she owns entire country & casually tells 'other' that latter doesn't belong to them.

3. Even a right-wing Hindu in India casually asks a Muslim whose ancestors lived here for 1,000 years, to 'go', 'leave', as if the former owns entire land in India and can even decide who should live here or be expelled.

3 (ii) This is a strange sense of entitlement! Humans are indeed weird species. I or you can decide who will enter our house but such megalomania that all land, entire nation is my or my community's property and anyone who is 'different' can be otherized and discriminated with?

4. The sickening audacity that 'I belong' here & a belief that I can decide, tell others to 'leave', judge others, issue diktat on the basis of my skin tone or faith is extremely difficult to understand. One must remember that Whites in US are also European immigrants' descendants, not the natives.

5, Interestingly, even if someone is a first generation immigrant, but due to complexion or ideology, faith or race, he can pass judgment on a local living for ages, and otherize him/her...!!!

6. If the issue is analyzed, then we realize that Media has played a dirty role in dividing society, terming 'outsiders' for every issue, which in turn emboldens people to spread hate, racism, xenophobia. It influenced people the wrong way.

7. It's shameful majoritarianism, everywhere. In Gulf region, many regions now have 75-85% outsiders and millions of Christians, Hindus live, without any such discrimination. There is no restriction or bias on the basis of culture, faith or food.

8. In some cities and countries in West Asia, locals are less than 25% or just 15%, but they are not insecure or hateful. Compared to past, the immigration system is more relaxed and diverse communities live in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Oman, Doha, Kuwait, Sharjah etc.

9. But, in Europe and US, even 2-3% minorities are seen as 'others' and anger, jealousy, insecurity is visible. The psychological fear, hysteria and the anger over immigrants' arrival as if it's an 'invasion' is bizarre.

10. A serious discourse is needed. Western countries that have in the past, enslaved countries in the East, Asia and Africa, or took steps that caused migration and arrival of refugees, all these aspects can no longer be ignored.

Indian Muslims, a forward community: Journalists' conditioning that never let's them go beyond 'Muslim backwardness'

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 08 Sep 2024 05:50:00 +0000

Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

It’s painful to write this piece. But just read these few points to understand how even statistics are interpreted in a particular way due to ‘conditioning’ and biases.

1. How many times you see headlines that say, ‘Muslim women literacy rate set to beat Hindu women in rural India now’*, ‘Percentage of illiterates among Hindus 2–1/2 times times the percent among Jains’ or ‘Sikhs, Christians ahead in literacy in particular regions, X community still lag’ or ‘Buddhists performing better than Y community in this state’.

This is a fact that Muslim women now have higher literacy rate in rural parts of the country than Hindu women. But have you seen anywhere this reported or big headlines that show this upward trend!

Also, the statistics now clearly indicate that overall [rural plus urban] literacy among women above five years is— Hindu women (69%) and Muslim women (68.1%). Quite close. Isn’t it. The Ministry of Statistics, NSS, PLFS, all reports, you can check and find it yourself.

2. Unfortunately, despite this data that is available in public space, it is the only Hindu-Muslim binary and ‘Muslims as backward’ headline appearing in papers despite so many other figures and different points.

Now, even if Muslims were behind — moving fast or slow, the journalists rarely mention overall figure of illiterates, as it will reveal something else — almost 250 million or nearly 25 crore Hindus are illiterates.

3. In India, every data is analysed in newspapers and reported in a way that it must not show majority community in poor light or backward. When there are figures, they are picked in a way to ‘reveal less, hide more’, and also presented in a particular manner — that’s the status quo of reporting.

Perhaps, it’s due to conditioning that just this aspect or on these lines, the story on social indicators is believed to be written and rarely people try to look deep into the reports and see the changes.

4. So extrapolation, NFHS surveys & reports like PLFS or others give us a picture. Even if we tilt towards positive side and believe that figure will reduce dramatically by next Census, still around25 crore or 250 million [illiteracy] are illiterate in India. Imagine extent of the problem.

5. If a community is small, then it’s comparatively easy to catch up. Small groups have shown way. Bigger the group, the tougher it is. As per 2011, illiteracy figures were 25.8 cr and 5.42 cr for Hindu & Muslim. 2021 are estimates.

6. If you imagine a rosy picture & say 25 crore, even this is bigger than population of 190 countries, only less than China, US and India. Still, we focus on nonsense, every day discuss those issues. Politicians, Anchors want not just illiteracy but probably want to snatch our brains too.

7. Now coming to second part of the article. I didn’t want to write it but such is conditioning of journalists that I have to write and I must remind — remember, as per statistics, Hindus still have the lowest level of educational attainment of any major religious group according to international studies. Jews are at the top but Christians and Muslims are also much ahead.

8. Globally, the average is 5.6 years of schooling, and 41% of Hindus have no formal education of any kind. On average, Hindu men have 2.7 more years of schooling than Hindu women, and just over half of Hindu women (53%) have no formal schooling, compared with 29% of Hindu men.

9. Whoever owns media can make you believe anything and such is power of ‘mainstream media’, its narrative that you blindly start believing them. If someone says something, talk on statistics and look at the complete picture.

Ideally, educational backwardness or anything should not be linked with religion. In a huge country, there are regional differences, also state support, many factors, and any ‘issue’ should be seen as just an ‘issue’, not on communal lines.

But in India, media and channels’ job is apparently just to communalise and show entire Muslim community permanently as ‘backward’, hence, when it is linked to religion all the time, we too need to explain it with statistics.

10. As a citizen in world’s biggest democracy, we must know our real situation — it shouldn’t be that we are either too self-critic, gullible and believing that ‘we are bad, we don’t want to study, our community is really against education’ or even turn over-optimist.

11. Opportunity and state support can make a community prosper fast and taking away support can have negative affect. We must know reality, neither turn pessimist, nor self-hating, but be aware and always make efforts to move ahead.

12. Communities that are so big that they number hundreds of million, are so easily termed ‘backward’. This sort of crass generalization, ignoring the regional differences [the regions too are huge, states that have population over 100 million and even 200 million — ranging from Maharashtra to UP and are 175 most countries of the world] and without evidence and bringing focus on all indicators, is not just careless but dangerous.

One last point — never believe media’s narrative blindly, as the social conditioning and training of most journos in news rooms [or just because they feel it is the model or style going for generations] is to present news in a fashion by cherry picking data, so that Muslims feel they are indeed ‘poorest, backward, and behind everyone else’.

*It's true now, as per latest government survey results.

5 IMPORTANT ARTICLES ON THIS ISSUE

READ: 'You don't look like a Muslim': The oft-repeated line reveals prejudice, generalization, biases

READ: Stop generalizing, calling Indian Muslims 'backward': Talk on facts, social indicators

READ: Muslims ahead on nutrition, health indicators: Status of women, dietary discrimination in other communities

READ: Myths about Indian Muslims' backwardness: Muslims moving forward, striving to achieve despite discrimination and lack of government jobs

READ: Vilification of Muslims as a political strategy: Majoritarian tendencies and obsession with minority in Indian society

NOTE: The photo of child with skullcap is deliberately used as Indian Media has made this photo as symbol of backwardness. Though it shows how presence of maktab and madarsa ensures that even without availability of schools, Muslims do far better and get basic literacy with ease due to these institutions.

Muslims ahead on nutrition, health indicators: Status of women, dietary discrimination in other communities

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 18:51:00 +0000

Shams Ur Rehman Alavi
Firstly, this post is not for those who've no interaction with Muslims and have preconceived notions about the community, especially, those who don't care about facts, statistics or any report, but generalize and brand entire community as backward due to their bias. 
This article is about the fact that in Muslim households, girls are valued much more, comparatively, and this is evident, statistically, also.   

Even when female foeticide was rampant in North India, this was not a major problem in Muslim society.  
In households, you often hear, 'Hamare huzoor ki nasl bhi unki beti se chali'. Many people don't understand that at ground level, even among the poorest of poor, this slight difference in attitude due to religion, plays a major role. 
READ: 4.6 crore girls 'missing' in India due to 'son preference'

This is to highlight how certain religious teachings, sayings about women's status, have impact. Those working in social sector sector for years, knew difference but said, 'ya, they [Muslims] have less of this problem among women' (or in malnutrition too) but won't tell more.  

There are big regions where Muslims don't have much land holdings, less than even 1% in govt jobs, yet, on these indicators like nutrition among girls, doing much better & despite less affluence, attitudes towards girl child-daughters, different-visible. Problem is sweeping generalization, false narrative.
READ: Why multiple abortions, female foeticide don't bother society?
Either it was about dietary discrimination or birth of girl child, these social evils were prevalent more in other communities. But nobody termed them as 'backward'. Backwardness is in social evils, attitudes. Being less affluent is not being backward. Open mind, shun prejudices. 
It's not that we don't know or won't focus on our own shortcomings, we do and we must make an effort to get rid of social evils, try to improve. If on one indicator, we are doing well, we must try to do even more better in coming years. But branding & falsehood will be tackled. 
READ: For 40 years no girl could stay alive in this MP village

It's not that you have a sex ratio of 850 in a region but still remain 'forward' or that women-girls in your community are more stunted, anaemic and malnourished, but you continue to term others as backward just because of your power to brand others and use majoritarian privilege to brand the 'other'. 
This blog has a series of posts on this issue. Also, regarding backwardness, the false narrative that is shaped and how propaganda is used as a means to brand an entire community. More on this topic, with statistics would be posted, soon.
READ: Indian Muslims are NOT backward, talk on facts, social indicators
It is interesting that if you ask journalists on social sector beat, why they don't give religion-wise figures on these indicators, they quickly say, 'oh ya, we never thought about it'. Nobody else will tell your story, you need to tell it, claim your voice. 
READ: Myths about Indian Muslim backwardness
Else, even if community doing well, the report will be published with a classification among Muslims, OBCs, Dalits and Tribals, not as Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Jain, Buddhist--and you won't even know your own progress. Either it is NHFS or similar reports, keep an eye, read, write and tell. This series about the 'backwardness narrative' will continue and figures will be shared in coming posts. 
WATCH VIDEO: How media created image of Muslim women as backward

Photo courtesy: Mr Joy Deb, Pexels

Imam Husain's martyrdom: Lessons from the Tragedy of Karbala and the significance of Muharram observances

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 06 Jul 2024 12:31:00 +0000

[By Shams Ur Rehman Alavi]

1. Imam Husain was one of the most powerful men in his era on the earth. Entire Islamic world was aware of Husain's status.

2. In his childhood, he played in the lap of Prophet (PBUH) who doted on his grandsons. Husain had no want for political power. His single gesture or call could bring revolution across Muslim lands but he didn't want bloodshed.

3. As Prophet's grandson, he had to keep highest moral and ethical standards and not succumb despite tricks, treachery and tyranny. He could never accept a cruel imposter or an unjust ruler's allegiance as it'd have been setting a precedent to have an unworthy or debauched man heading the ummat and this was impossible.

4. The 'bayt' or his allegiance was necessary as Yazid needed legitimacy from people in Islamic world that he had Hussain's [Family of Prophet PBUH] support. The events and the political power's cunning led to the unfortunate massacre at Karbala that is remembered till day and that inspires generations to stand for truth and justice.

5. The sacrifice proved to be the single biggest event that stunned Muslim world. Prophet's grandson and kin were slayed at Karbala. And, it was Prophet's household, granddaughter Zaynab and others who were mistreated and yet survived to tell the tale of the massacre.

6. The anger led to a massive revolution and almost everyone involved in the battle, had to pay the price. Karbala's message was for fight against tyranny and injustice, immense courage in the face of a huge force and yet not compromising when it comes to moral values, justice and ethics.

7. After Husain's martyrdom, his son Imam Zayn Ul Abideen, spent his entire life in prayers and solitude. The Prophet's lineage, their sons and descendants, who commanded moral authority, were seen as a 'threat' by rulers and hence constant attempts were made on their lives and to disconnect them and their teachings from public.

8. However, the fact that it was the House of Prophet that was targeted, makes every Muslim remember Karbala as a symbol of supreme sacrifice and it's legacy is for all Muslims and others, not just for any sect or group, alone. Unbiased and fair mind will take one close to truth.

9. The poetry and literature is full of Karbala's reference as an event that reminded people that how submission is not for a powerful ruler or monarch or worldly authority, but complete submission is for the Almighty.

Iqbal sums it up:

Gharib-o-sâda- o-rangi.n hay dâstân-e-Haram

Nihâyat iski Husayn ibtida hay Ismâil

Allama Iqbal also wrote, 'Har zabaan pe qabza hai Husayn ka', and each couplet shows his depth of emotions for Imam Husain's sacrifice.

10. Last point. In entire Islamic history, either lives of Ahl e Bayt, the sacrifice of Imam Hasan, Imam Husain, Jafar, Abbas, infant Ali Akbar and Ali Asghar, or beyond this, the unfortunate events at Jamal or Siffin, the lives of individuals ranging from Mohammad bin Hanafia to Muhammad bin Abu Bakr, the stand taken by people in the harsh circumstances, have lessons for us.

It's an amazing legacy that offers so much and it must be seen as a responsibility to carry the message. There is no scope for sectarianism here. It can't be from the prism of sects. It is not Sunni or Shia history.

It is Muslim history and world history. Karbala's message is for all. Those who feel emotionally inspired, must stand for truth and resist immoral authority, tyranny and injustice, lead their lives on principles and values.

News to Noise: TV news era ending, viewers shun watching news on channels in India

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 08 Jul 2023 13:13:00 +0000

Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

The era when people started their day, watching news on TV, has gone.

No longer, the families sit for the prime time news in the evening.

TV news is almost dead. The system of 'watching news on channels' by entire family or even individual, has disappeared.

TRPs can be managed to some extent and money pumped but the truth is that media companies' heads had it coming.

The extreme NOISE, the fake news, hatred, agenda based propaganda and communalism that was aired day in and day out, had frustrated the viewers.

Large number of Muslims had long ago STOPPED watching the channels due to their clear agenda. But eventually, others too got fed up of the same style and focus on topics like alleged Love Jihad or Prayers in Public.

Why would someone get his or her BP shot up, after watching the loud and uncouth anchors, the sickening language, the charges and counter charges, yelling and shouting participants in debates that appear to be staged.

1. A substantial number of people who earlier watched news and discussions, have turned away from watching news channels in India and stopped getting news from TV due to constant commotion on screen, anchors' antics, weird discussions on controversial issues, regularly.

2. A large section of people got disgusted & habit of watching TV news suffered, as debates turned high pitched. People fight and shout, and audience have got alternatives, they are now getting news from Twitter, Inshorts etc. Cable TV has been disconnected in many homes.

3. News media was going through a long crisis even otherwise. TRPs had gone down. Still, there was no attempt to invest in new formats, documentaries, focus on lives of people, serious issues, real problems of citizens, special reports or global affairs' coverage.

4. Fiction, exaggerations, superstitions were aired to get eyeballs and this brought down standards. Less serious work was undertaken in terms of journalism. Either its English or Hindi channels, the indifference is same.

Channels can't sustain for long as advertisements are going towards digital platforms. People have lost interest and obtaining news through TV that used to be an essential ritual and part of their daily life, is gone.

5. The creativity is limited to the fact that Headlines are based on 'tukbandi' and rousing emotions or by boisterous conversations. All these news 'tamasha' promoters have ensured that the field of journalism has changed for worse, little scope has been left and news media will just drag somehow without any impact on society.

6. The owners sold their souls and result is that overall journalism suffers today, jobs are dwindling and revenue is drying up. People were no longer interested in self obsessed anchors' monologues or watching a panel of selected people who argue, fight and make cheap comments.

7. Either its English or Hindi and the regional news channels, the exasperation among viewers is clear. People have not just sort of 'boycotted' but consuming news through TV that used to be an essential part of one's life, is a thing of past now.

8. The hate peddlers and hate promoters have ensured that the field of journalism has changed for worse, little scope is left for the next generation of budding journalists, and news media will just drag without serious impact on society.

9. Probably, this was bound to happen, as softness and sanity had totally disappeared. All the channels were doing exactly the same thing. Even moderate anchors were shunted out and journalists who focused on real issues, were sidelined. The result is that now there is struggle for survival.

10. People no longer feel dependent on TV and have no patience for watching news or debates that cause stress, anxiety and tension. After all, everyone wants a bit of relief and entertainment. Who can bear the ANGRY AND SHOUTING LOUTS anymore?

Muslim leader from Bengal and former Member of Parliament, Badrudduja, his life and times

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 19:28:00 +0000

Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

Freedom fighter and prominent leader late Badrudduja is recalled for his politics as well as his firm stand on issues and oratory.

He was active during freedom struggle and participated in almost all the movements.

Even in pre-partition era, he was Mayor of Calcutta.

After 1947, his role in West Bengal politics became important.

Badrudduja was never hesitant to speak on Muslim issues and took up the issue of injustice and atrocities with Muslims. Blitz and other newspapers termed him a 'reactionary'. However, he was unmoved and undeterred. He fearless intervened and took up the causes of the citizens.

When he was targeted by the then State law minister Siddhartha Shankar Ray, he responded to the personal attack in a manner that the former had to apologize. Badrudduja said, 'If my loyalty to my religion and culture is used to brand me, then I'm proud of it'.

In 1967, he was elected MP as IDP candidate. In Assembly & Parliament, he was vocal & hence faced consequences. Also, with Krishak Praja Party (KPP) and then IDP. In his political life, he remained a man firm on principles and never compromised.

For example, he refused to accept that just Muslim lawmakers will have to sign a document on Kashmir. Objecting, he said that it was wrong to just ask Muslim members to sign it. Often in conflict with governments, he was imprisoned time and again.

Syed Badrudduja was born in Murshidabad, Bengal in 1900. He studied law and was Mayor of Kolkata in 1943-44. He had participated in movements during freedom struggle. later, he went on to become the member of legislative council of West Bengal after independence.

He was elected MLA several times. Besides, he contested and won in Lok Sabha elections too. One must remember than Bengal and Punjab were most affected by partition. West Bengal was left with few influential politicians from the Muslim community, after 1947.

Both these states were cut from the middle and divided among separate countries. Badrudduja didn't move and remained in India. It was a time when Muslims of Bengal and even North India, needed political voice.

He showed that politics was possible without joining INC or Communists, took an independent line. He fearlessly spoke and raised the issues concerning Muslims. Either it is about lack of institutions or education, he was actively taking them up in Assembly as well as Parliament.

As far as eloquence is concerned, Tagore was fulsome in praise when he saw him speak in 1938 and termed it a 'Gift of God'. When Badrudduja was moved by the complement, Tagore said that he was a writer and oratory was a totally different skill. His English speech had cast a spell on none other than CV Raman. Similarly, he could keep audience spellbound with his Urdu speeches.

Link and Link.

Aasim Bihari: Freedom fighter who led movements, battled for downtrodden all his life

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 12:55:00 +0000

Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

Ali Husain Aasim Bihari who was a freedom fighter, big leader, organised workers in Bihar & Bengal, brought out newspapers, formed multiple organisations.

He, led Momin Ansari community, and all his life fought for workers' rights. Suffered a lot in process and his family also lived in challenging circumstances.

Hailing from Bihar Sharif, Nalanda, he had to shift to Kolkata to earn a living and it was here that he began involved in freedom movement and started an unprecedented political and social journey despite financial constraints.

Aasim Bihari left a huge legacy but led a tough life. His family bore consequences of his immense passion for awakening the masses, at the cost of his own health and finances. He opposed partition of India and worked for uplift of downtrodden. He passed away in independent India and was buried in Allahabad.

I don't think it is easy to write about his missionary zeal and his sacrifices without getting tears in eyes. He faced personal tragedies, the death of his brother, the lack of money that caused hardships to his daughter, the suffering of his wife and entire family.

He was ailing and couldn't be treated. He had declined the post of minister, also refused to take a princely sum, luring offer from a major political party, and his integrity for the cause was unquestionable.

In a life of constant struggle. Aasim Bihari formed organisations, led agitations, ran campaign to release nationalist leaders from jails after Jallianwalabagh massacre by sending letters from people of all parts of country to Queen & Viceroy. Brought out journals, weavers were organised amd turned into a political force.

Born in 1889 [1890*], he passed away in 1953. From Jamiatul Momineen, his lifelong fight for rights, awareness, awakening and education among masses, continued. CM recently released book on him and it has been decided to add a chapter on his life in school textbook.

[There is slight variation in references about his year of birth. However, the date of birth is April 15.]

Indian History: Battles were not fought due to religion or over communal factors, stop distorting medieval India's history

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 19 Jun 2023 06:07:00 +0000

Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

Do you know who led the Mughal army that fought Mewar, nearly 450 years ago?

It was led by Man Singh.

The imperial Mughal army had Hindus and Muslims. Mewar's forces also had both Hindus and Muslims.

Today, Man Singh is not disliked or hated. In fact, the historians or tourist guides in Gwalior, mention his name with respect and omit the part of his being an ally of the Mughals or the one who launched attack on Mewar.

They also take his rival, Rana Pratap's name with respect. But the Emperor who was served by Man Singh, is these days seen differently though it was under his dynasty that the modern India took shape as a single geographic entity.

The dislike against Akbar and the Mughal dynasty is because of the Emperors' religion. Though religion was not the most important factor in medieval era. Muslims fought Muslim rulers just like Hindus fought Hindu rulers.

It was loyalty that was rewarded. Alliances that serve purpose were valued. Babar fought and defeated Ibrahim Lodi. Both were Muslims. It was just like the Jaunpur state would battle Delhi in the past, during the era of Husain Sharqi and Bahlul Lodi.

Hakim Khan Sur had also fought against the Mughal army. There are innumerable examples. In medieval era, people fought for power or prestige but were not petty to look at everything from a religious lens.

The battle of Haldighati was not the sole such battle. All attempts to communalize, fall flat. In media and popular narrative, Raja Man Singh is not seen in negative light despite the fact that he led Mughal army.

But, the Mughal kings are portrayed negatively. Not just Raja Man Singh, all those chieftains of Rajputana and other parts of the country who were in alliance with Mughals, are praised individually and media praises them for their power in the regions though they were subservient to the Mughal emperor.

Were the North Indian or even South Indian rulers who never opposed Delhi or later allied with British rule, bad? And the lone man who died fighting, is termed villain! Ironical that Tipu Sultan symbolized courage, fought and defeated British before he finally attained martyrdom.

But rulers of most princely states who remained pro-British and accepted the suzerainty, are celebrated and eulogized in the different regions. Alliance or accepting the secondary status to continue their rule locally, is not seen as betrayal.

Respect courage, then praise everyone's valour or condemn the cowards too. Medieval era was different. They had their culture, traditions and alliances as per need of the hour. Read with open mind, without bias and taking sides.

It was on June 18, 1576 that the battle of Haldighati was fought.

The battle like many others were not about Hinduism or Islam. Almost all the other Rajput states' rulers were with the Mughal kingdom. Similarly, Muslim soldiers were part of Mewar army too.

Now let's go to another century. Or see the case of Deccan or other parts. Shivaji's army had a large number of Muslims. He had Muslim generals and confidantes.

Unfortunately, after independence people who were in search for heroes of their communities, in order to connect self with them and boost own ego, started looking for personalities from religious and other angles, like kinship. Communalism was injected and battles, personalities were chosen as 'our' or 'their' in this race.

Ilyas Azmi: A Muslim politician who raised voice courageously over issues pertaining Indian Muslims

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:44:00 +0000

Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

It's time to talk about late Ilyas Azmi. He was politically active till the end of his life.

There are many things to remember about him. He was among those who kept talking about Dr Abdul Jaleel Faridi, unlike other leaders of his generation.

But the most important was his role after the Batla House incident in 2008, when TV channels had targeted youth of Azamgarh & East UP, Ilyas Azmi raised voice.

Cops made youth drape keffiyeh before media to stereotype the community youth. Azmi protested wore the same keffiyeh and entered parliament.

Raising copies of Mail Today that had its cover page about the police bias. He and Akbar Ahmad Dumpy strongly raised the issue when most community scholars and leaders were mum.

There were different phases in his career but this one act of resistance was important and unforgettable. He roared and raised slogans in the house, and it had impact.

In those days, TV channels even used the term 'aatank garh' for Azamgarh. Newsrooms were not much different from today, even if people have forgotten the era. Many of the anchors who are today considered torch bearers of secularism had shown their Islamophobic side and the readiness to fall for any thing claimed by cops.

Azmi broke the psychological barrier then. This is another aspect that they were later taken to task by Mayawati who was angry that he and Dumpy raised slogans on the issue in front of speaker.

Indian Muslims are a forward community, ahead on social indicators: Exposing media's false propaganda regarding 'backwardness'

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 16:35:00 +0000

The Indian Muslims are a forward looking community.

There is no doubt about it that despite challenges, Indian Muslims have moved ahead and progressed.

Less in government jobs and lacking in resources, yet, Indian Muslims have established themselves in all spheres and all the fields.

Quite often, we hear the term 'backward' linked to Muslims without any statistics or documentary proof.

In fact, on social indicators and as far as social evils and other regressive practices in society are concerned, these are less prevalent in Muslim community. Of course, community has less representation in government service [jobs] and politics.

But, Indian Muslims, especially, Muslim women have also been stepping forward in education. Definitely, there was lack of resources and financially issues but Muslims still managed to stand up and today they are doing their best to move ahead.

From Child marriages to Female Foeticide, there are so many indicators on which Indian Muslims fare better. In fact, female Feticide is a major issue in India. Similarly, when it comes to sex ratio, Indian Muslims fare better.

In dowry deaths, other communities have a bad record and thousands of brides are burnt to death or made to commit suicide each year. Comparatively, there are dozens of other aspects too, that show how Muslims fare much better.

The sole issue is that Muslims down have control over media and it shows a negative picture of Muslims. This website has a list of articles to show how Muslims have made efforts and giant strides in many fields in India, in recent years. However, the supposedly mainstream media continues to ignore the data and these positive changes.

READ: Indian Muslims a forward community: Journos' conditioning that never lets them go beyond 'backwardness' narrative

Stop right-wing bullies, stand with victims: Congress, secular parties must ask their wings and workers to get to streets against injustice

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 10:21:00 +0000

By Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

1. I respect Mr Jairam Ramesh sb but he blamed parties like AAP and AIMIM for Congress' defeat though Majlis fought very few seats & didn't harm Congress.

2. No party has right to all votes, many parties are needed. Sometime voter wants VOICE, ALLY, not win. NSUI, YC, didn't stand with us when bulldozers came. They dont stand in front of BD, VHP

3. It's not correct to blame others. In state after state, when not accused but victim's houses targeted after making false claims, people hoped Congress workers would come, make human chain, stand in front, at least, show support and resistance. But no stand, not even PCC statement

READ: Stop calling parties 'vote cutters', more parties better for democracy

4. You must ask all the wings ranging from NSYI to YC, Women's wing to Sewa Dal, and numerous others that why they don't show confidence, hold demo, give memo, claim streets, show that they have concern. If there are demos, they are just for cameras. Plz ask them to get active.

5. It is not mere victory that is sufficient. There are factors ranging from society's psychology, impact on masses, narrative, the perception, use and misuse of media, hold on streets and giving impression that you too have certain power. If secular parties don't work on these aspects, it's of no use.

NOTE: Earlier posts were not about one particular Muslim party, rather, it was about Tamil Nadu model and parties ranging from TMMK to IUML, INL to SDPI and Welfare Party. Kindly stop being obsessed with AIMIM and believing that everything in the world is about those who are either with AIMIM or against it.

Stop calling parties 'Vote cutters': More political parties are better for democracy and also for India, Indian Muslims

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 08 Dec 2022 13:44:00 +0000

By Shams Ur Rehman Alavi

It's time to stop calling parties 'vote cutters'. In Central India, Gondwana party, GMS & JAYS don't have MLAs but have workers.

After custodial death or atrocity, come to street, hold demo, give memo, put pressure, ensure action. Better than having dumb MLAs. Parties needed, even if they don't win elections, they must be around as voice of different and diverse sections of people.

There are two separate things. First is winning, getting equal share in power. That's just a dream, no major party ready to speak for you or give representation. Hence, at least, have the power to fight for rights, basic dignity and own voice.

The old narrative that just defeat a party or stand behind another is not smart enough, you need many parties, not the ones that remain mum and teach nothing to Muslim cadre, not even letting them issue statements.

Read the points to understand:

1. "We're powerful enough to let our people commit atrocities, get them freed & felicitate them, managing every tool in the system". If someone even thinks in this way, what'd you feel? Bad. But it has not just been thought about.

2. That was the message, which was sent through actions, statements, dog whistles, media, social media. Don't many people want this power! So they do vote in accordance . 'Even our (sic) criminals' must be supported?

3. Call it heinous or horrific but they are honest about it. They 'promised' this, reminded about past and teaching lesson.

4. They said we will continue to dominate and crush rest at will. People aren't concerned about morality, but want feel of power as a community. Gives a high.

5. People of Gujarat have again voted for BJP, overwhelmingly. Nothing wrong, they want status quo & not enthused by Opposition parties' promises.

6. If majority feels that Muslims are so many & a party, might of state, needed to give them support, comfort, security, its okay. Their choice.

7. The important point to learn is that calling any party 'B team' or Team C is not at all advisable. In democracy, party fights and represents a section, its voice, has cadre on street.

8. In central India, JAYS and Gondwana parties don't have MLAs but have workers who at least hold demo, give memo and ensure compensation to victim by pursuing case of custodial death or atrocity on person of their community.

9. It raises your voice, news also gets published, officers are made to take cognizance and act. So power balance remains. It's not about just winning and losing but fighting and having cadre.

10. 'Vote cutter' or 'vote katwa' terms must not be used. More the number of parties, better for democracy.

Photo courtesy: Abdul Rabbani, Pexels