Salafism and Pragmatic Politics in India: A Comprehensive Exploration
By Grace Mubashir, New Age Islam
7 December 2024
This Article Is A Simple Summarization Of A Long Article By Mohammed Sinan Siyech Titled Salafism And Pragmatic Politics In India.
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Salafism is a form of Islam known for its puritanical approach. It has been gaining international attention due to its theological stances and socio-political implications. This ideology is usually associated with rigid and apolitical stances, but in the Indian context, there is an interesting adaptation. Indian Salafism explains how theological conservatism can coexist with pragmatic political strategies in a multicultural democracy. This lengthened discourse explores the historical, socio-political, and cultural aspects of Salafism in India as an evolving force in a pluralistic society.
The Historical Context of Salafism in India
India's involvement with Salafism dates back to the late 19th century. It coincided with India's colonial period. It was then that the movement of Ahl-i-Hadith began as a reformist undertaking based on literalism for the interpretation of Islamic texts. In contrast to other Islamic schools of thought in the subcontinent, Ahl-i-Hadith opposed syncretic practices and Sufi traditions, which had become an integral part of the broader Salafi ethos.
Impact of Global Networks
The global increase in Salafism, which has its epicentre in the Middle East - Saudi Arabia, specifically-has brought about significant ripples within India. Its growing presence was during the tail end of the 20th century, through global exposure and the influx of remittances into India from the Gulf states that introduced Indian Muslims to the precepts of Salafism. These ties gave salient ideological support, additional finances, and set up Salafi mosques and buildings.
Salafism and the Indian Political Landscape
The democratic system of India—its secular constitution and vibrant electoral politics profoundly impact how Salafism manifests itself within the state lines.
Encapsulation with Electoral Politics
While Salafism is viewed as apolitical or antipathetic to the modern political order, Indian Salafis have shown more pragmatic tendencies. Realizing the need for representation within a democratic setup, they participate in elections through proxy support for those candidates or parties who suit their interests. This is non ideological and more pragmatic and focused on protection of rights and redress of socio-economic wrongs.
Grassroots Activism and Community Building**
Beyond the mainstream politics, Indian Salafis have been actively involved in social work to uplift their community's socio-economic conditions. This includes education, health, and poverty-eradication programs. In this way, Salafi organizations build confidence and credibility among Muslim communities, especially in the underprivileged regions.
The Ideological and Theological Specificity of Indian Salafism
Doctrinal Exclusivism
Indian Salafism adheres to a very strict reading of the Islamic texts, maintaining monotheism, which they call Tawhid, and excluding those practices, which they hold as innovations, namely shrine worship and veneration of saints. Often this will put them against the Hanafi majority tradition and the majority of Sufism that still dominates Indian Muslim practices.
Internal Diversity
Despite its rigid doctrinal stance, Salafism in India is not monolithic. Different factions interpret the ideology differently, leading to different approaches to issues such as political participation, interfaith dialogue, and engagement with modernity. This internal diversity reflects the broader adaptability of Salafism in response to regional and cultural contexts.
Challenges Facing Salafism in India
Sectarian Tensions
The exclusivist nature of Salafism has sometimes put it at odds with other Islamic sects in India. Sufi-oriented groups and other Sunni factions often see Salafi teachings as divisive, while Salafis criticize practices they deem un-Islamic. Such sectarian disputes can weaken communal unity within the Muslim population.
Perceptions of Radicalization
Salafism’s global associations with extremist ideologies pose challenges for its perception in India. While the majority of Indian Salafis are peaceful and law-abiding, their theological overlaps with radical movements invite scrutiny from law enforcement and security agencies. Such associations can lead to stigmatization, hindering their efforts to engage constructively in society.
Balancing Conservatism with Modernity
Navigating the tension between their more austere theological outlook and what is increasingly a modern pluralistic society, Indian Salafis face one of their biggest dilemmas. Compounded and complicated, women's rights, interfaith dialogue, or secular governance all put progressive people at odds with them more often than not.
On the one hand, these financial and ideological supports are helping Indian Salafis amass much-needed funds to organize various community building-related activities; on the other hand, it only courts accusations of foreign meddling while raising a host of questions about the supposed internal autonomy of Indian Salafist groups.
Globalization and Identity
Global Islamic movements also influence how Indian Salafis articulate their identity. Interaction with international discourse on reform and justice in Islam inspired some of the Salafi leaders to speak to a global agenda, such as Islamophobia and minority rights, establishing a role for themselves within a universal Ummah.
Salafism and the Indian State
Security Issues
With the doctrinal similarities between Salafism and movements linked with extremism, the Indian state has remained very cautious. The security apparatus keeps track of Salafi institutions and scholars, particularly in areas that have witnessed or continue to experience communal riots. The state has avoided outright repression on this count; the approach clearly reflects the Indian state's commitment to democratic freedoms.
Accommodation and Dialogue
The Indian government has also sought to integrate Salafi groups into broader Muslim representation frameworks. Initiatives such as interfaith dialogues and consultations on minority rights demonstrate an effort to engage with Salafi leaders constructively. This dual strategy of vigilance and inclusion highlights the complexities of managing religious diversity in a democratic society.
The Socio-political Significance of Salafism
Community Empowerment
Through education and social services, Salafi organizations have empowered marginalized Muslim communities. This improves the general living standards of the society and, at the same time, provides an alternative to the radical narratives since it is emphasizing constructive engagement with society.
Youth Engagement
Salafi groups in India have increasingly focused on engaging the youth, offering religious education alongside vocational training. This dual emphasis helps address the aspirations of young Muslims while countering the allure of extremist ideologies.
Advocacy for Rights
Salafi leaders are vocal advocates of Muslim rights and, in part, function within the space of India's constitution framework. As they engage legal and political processes, Salafis counter stereotypes such as seclusion and showcase commitment to democratic values.
Salafism beyond India: a Global Context
The Indian experience of Salafism is thus important in identifying its adaptability in contexts where Muslims are not at the majority. While elements of Salafism found in other parts of the world are often confrontational, Indian Salafis have, by and large, taken a conciliatory approach, balancing theological commitment with pragmatic considerations.
Lessons For Pluralistic Societies
India's approach to Salafism is a telling reminder of the need to pursue inclusive policies that protect religious diversity but also meet national security needs. Pluralistic communities will be able to deescalate the risks of salafisation and promote cohabitation through dialogue and providing equitable opportunities.
The future of Salafism in India will depend on its ability to adapt to changing socio-political realities. As the country continues to grapple with issues of communal harmony and identity politics, Salafi groups must navigate these dynamics carefully to remain relevant.
Building Alliances
To strengthen their position, Indian Salafis may need to build alliances with other Muslim groups and engage in interfaith initiatives. Such efforts could help bridge sectarian divides and enhance their legitimacy as a constructive force within Indian society.
Addressing Internal Challenges
Their growth will depend on resolving internal divisions and formulating a unified vision. This will be through in-house discussions by Salafi leaders to align the movement towards achieving the diverse needs of their followers.
Conclusion
Salafism in India is an interesting case of ideological conservatism finding ways to meet the demands of a pluralistic democracy. Its evolution from a puritanical movement to a politically engaged entity has shown a dynamic interplay between theology, politics, and the needs of society. As Indian Salafis continue on their journey, their story is important to learn about the possibilities and challenges of coexistence in a diverse and democratic society.
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A regular columnist for NewAgeIslam.com, Mubashir V.P is a PhD scholar in Islamic Studies at Jamia Millia Islamia and freelance journalist.
URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islam-politics/salafism-pragmatic-politics-india/d/133961
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