New Delhi, August 7, 2024: In a significant literary event, Professor Mujeebur Rahman, Assistant Professor at the Centre for the Study of Social Exclusion and Inclusive Policy (CSSIP) at Jamia Millia Islamia, unveiled his latest book, Shikwa-e-Hind: The Political Future of Indian Muslims, on Tuesday evening.
In his book, Rahman explores the complex narratives surrounding Indian Muslims. He asserts, “Indian Muslims are perceived or presented as perpetrators of violence and violators of law, even if they are at the receiving end. They are viewed as an internal enemy, who need to be dealt with for political, social, historical, and ideological reasons.”
Shikwa-e-Hind delves into crucial developments such as Shaheen Bagh protests, Hindu-Muslim riots, the unique status of Muslim women in India, and the Sachar Report on Muslim backwardness. Rahman provides a nuanced and globally relevant analysis of the pressing issues facing Indian Muslims.
The launch event at the India Islamic Cultural Center, Lodhi Road, saw a packed auditorium. Prominent speakers included MPs Shashi Tharoor, Asaduddin Owaisi, Priyanka Chaturvedi, Manoj Jha, former Union Minister Salman Khurshid, and Jawahar Sircar.
Asaduddin Owaisi praised the book for its candid depiction of the realities and mindset of Indian Muslims. He noted that it addresses the betrayal of Muslims by secular parties and highlights the ongoing Hindutva project.
Former Union Minister Salman Khurshid drew parallels with Bangladesh, cautioning that similar unrest could occur in India despite the surface appearance of normalcy. He highlighted that while some celebrate recent political victories, much work remains to be done.
Shashi Tharoor recalled his early support for Shaheen Bagh protests, emphasizing that the movement was inclusive of people from all faiths, embodying a strong sense of “Indianness.”
RJD MP Manoj Jha reflected on the Shaheen Bagh agitation against CAA and NRC, lamenting that its significance has not been fully recognized. He stated, “The success of Shaheen Bagh should not be measured by grandeur but by its symbolic stand when the Parliament failed to meet the people’s expectations.”
The release of Shikwa-e-Hind marks a vital contribution to the discourse on the political and social future of Indian Muslims, offering insights that resonate both nationally and globally.
