In the aftermath of the Lok Sabha 2024 elections, India has witnessed a disturbing rise in communal violence targeting the Muslim community, as reported by the Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR). According to their latest findings, incidents of lynching, mob violence, and unlawful demolitions have surged across multiple states.
The APCR report paints a grim picture of post-election unrest, documenting several alarming incidents. In Chhattisgarh's Raipur, three Muslim men were fatally beaten under suspicion of cattle transportation, while in Dantewada, a woman lost her life allegedly for converting to Christianity. West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh also saw tragic instances of lynching over theft suspicions, further exacerbating communal tensions.
Beyond lynching, communal mob violence has erupted in Telangana, Odisha, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh. These incidents ranged from stone pelting to arson, often ignited by accusations of cow slaughter or the display of religious symbols. In one notable case, a madrasa came under attack in Rajasthan amid allegations linked to social media posts on animal sacrifice.
The report also details instances of state-led demolitions, notably in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Homes belonging to Muslims were razed in Mandla and Ratlam on allegations of possessing cow meat, while a significant demolition occurred in Akbarnagar, Lucknow, raising concerns over the targeted nature of these actions.
Nadeem Khan, secretary of APCR, expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and called on state governments to take decisive action. The report's release has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for justice from Muslim organizations like Jamaat-e-Islami Hind and Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, who have demanded accountability for the victims.
The APCR's report serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing India's pluralistic society, urging comprehensive legal and societal reforms to prevent further bloodshed and uphold the principles of equality and religious freedom.