Steeped in a volatile mix of anger and destitution, subject to being “suspect” for far too long, Indian Muslim communities are finally showing signs of fighting back against preconceived prejudices. When respected Ulema start to speak out about secular traditions and democratic structures, a strategic shift based on community feedback is apparent. Whether this wave of positivity will turn into a tsunami of inter-cultural bonding is yet to be assessed.
The unceremonious dumping of Ajmal Kasab’s lawyer Abbas Kazmi by many community institutions — such as the Islam Gymkhana in Bombay — is best be read as another signal from the community to distance itself from terror. The earlier statement denouncing him from the local Shi’a council (“Defending a terrorist is also against the essence and teaching of Islam”) should be seen as a precursor to the avalanche of protest that will continue to follow Kazmi.
Those of liberal views might justifiably baulk: the Constitution of our country, and its time-tested judicial system, insist on presenting a fair defence for all accused; but it nevertheless is the case that the community is making a sincere effort to de-link itself from the misguided brand of Islam that the Taliban and the Indian Mujahideen propagate.
http://newageislam.com/indian-muslims--hear-the-new-voices---/islam-and-pluralism/d/1387
Categories : 
4:20 AM
Moderate Islamist here
0 comments:
Post a Comment