Mumbai: A new book examining the political role of Muslims in India has sparked discussion on representation, accountability, and constitutional engagement at a launch event attended by intellectuals, activists, and public figures.
Titled Political Agenda of Muslims in India, the book is authored by journalist and political activist Farooq Ahmed. Speakers at the programme said the work aims to encourage political awareness among Muslims and promote deeper engagement with democratic processes.
In his book, Ahmed questions the long standing political approach of Muslim voters, especially their relationship with parties identified as secular. He argues that despite decades of electoral support, Muslims continue to face challenges in representation, education, and economic development.
Referring to election outcomes in states such as Assam and West Bengal, Ahmed states that Muslim voters have played a key role in shaping results. However, he suggests that this support has not always translated into policy commitments or political inclusion.
A central argument of the book is the need to move beyond what the author describes as fear based voting. Ahmed calls for a shift towards what he terms contractual politics, where communities support parties based on clear commitments and measurable accountability rather than long term loyalty.
He also discusses the rise of what he calls soft Hindutva within sections of secular politics. According to him, concerns over majority vote banks have led some parties to avoid strong positions on issues affecting Muslims.
The book proposes broader alliances between Muslims, Dalits, backward communities, and other disadvantaged groups. Ahmed points to the political ideas associated with Advocate Prakash Ambedkar as a possible framework for such cooperation. He argues that collective action across communities could strengthen democratic participation and address shared socio economic concerns.
Another key theme is the need to frame public debates through a constitutional lens. Ahmed writes that issues such as the demolition of the Babri Masjid should be understood as challenges to constitutional values, including secularism and the rule of law, rather than only religious concerns.
Speakers at the event said the book contributes to ongoing debates on citizenship and democracy. They noted that its arguments are relevant not only for Muslims but also for students, researchers, and citizens interested in the future of India’s political system.
The Hindi edition of the book has been released, with Marathi and Urdu versions expected soon.
