The agony of being a Muslim

Are the muslims, the world over, looked at through tinted glasses? Why is their loyalty towards their countries – be it India or the USA or the UK – looked at in askance? Was this phenomenon existent since times immemorial or has it sprung up ever since the destruction of the twin towers of New York on 9/11? Is India really secular in her acceptance of all religions as equal? I have my own doubts because of a few incidents that I’ve been privy to over a period of time.
I think I was fortunate in having been brought up in a family that was progressive in its thinking and the tone of liberalism, in thought, was set by none other than my grandparents – both paternal and maternal. I remember being taken to Christian homes to celebrate Christmas, Muslim homes during Id and frankly speaking, would always look forward to attending those dos as there was plenty of fun and frolic and the food was immaculate, full of variety and tasted vastly different from what I used to have at my home! And it was as a matter of routine that those uncles and aunts joined us during Vishu and Onam. Furthermore, if I remember correctly, religion was never discussed at home. So much so, my ignorance of Jailani –a year junior to me in school and in the navy- being a muslim till recently, is reason for much mirth amongst my classmates and coursemates! And religion has never been the basis of my friendships as is the case with most of us who have been part of the armed forces’ fraternity.
But this has been changing over the last few years and especially in the aftermath of the Gujarat riots, I was appalled to hear many, amongst the educated lot, who sincerely felt that the muslims have been taught a lesson at last. I’ve also come to this conclusion – hope I’m absolutely wrong on this one- that there’s a sizable part of the population in our country which feels that the muslims should realize that they’re in a minority and therefore, not do anything that might upset the majority despite the provocation. In other words, live as second class citizens!! It is dangerous if in a society, there are sections that are not considered as equals exist, then fury and hatred for each other will fester and snowball into a violent reaction – the example of the ethnic strife of Sri Lanka, in our own backyard, needs no further explanation. A homogenous society cannot have people being treated differently and a truly secular state ensures peaceful coexistence of people from different religions or regions.
Tailpiece.
Having said thus, the undermentioned are some of the remedies that, according to me, if followed in spirit and to the letter, will go a long way towards making a strong and secular India:-
(a) The policy of appeasement of the minorities, by the government and the political parties needs to be stopped forthwith.
(b) Religions must be practiced within one’s own homes or religious places and should never spill into public places in the form of processions or celebrations.
(c) Freedom of expression for all individuals is good but it does not encompass utterances or depiction of aspects that disturb the sensitivities of the others(It’s just like refraining from doing certain things, say like smoking, in front of one’s parents or elders. Period!)