Religious Freedom, State Mindset, and Human Dignity in South Asia.

​

Religious Freedom, State Mindset, and Human Dignity in South Asia

Rising Concerns Over Religious Freedom in South Asia

In recent times, South Asia has witnessed a growing debate on religious freedom, state responsibility, and the treatment of minorities and tourists. This debate has intensified following disturbing incidents in India that have raised serious questions about the prevailing mindset of the current ruling establishment.

A Disturbing Incident Reflecting Institutional Insensitivity

A particularly troubling incident involved a senior Indian government functionary publicly pulling off the niqab of a Muslim woman while handing her an employment letter. Beyond being an act of personal misconduct, this episode symbolized a deeper institutional insensitivity toward religious identity, women’s dignity, and personal freedom. More alarming is the fact that similar acts have reportedly been repeated or justified in other parts of India, creating an atmosphere where humiliation of minorities appears normalized rather than condemned.

Distinguishing the State Mindset from Society

It is important to make a clear distinction: the problem does not lie with Indian society as a whole, nor with any religion. India has a long tradition of pluralism, and many opposition leaders, civil rights activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens have openly criticized such incidents. Their voices demonstrate that resistance to extremism exists within India itself. The real concern lies in the mindset of the current ruling dispensation, where majoritarian ideology increasingly overshadows constitutional values.

Consequences of Majoritarian Governance

Policies and public behavior influenced by religious nationalism have resulted in:

• Increased social polarization
• Insecurity among religious minorities
• Restrictions on religious expression, particularly targeting Muslim women
• A decline in India’s global image as a secular and tolerant democracy

Pakistan’s Approach to Religious Tourism and Minority Respect

In contrast, Pakistan’s experience with religious tourism offers an alternative perspective. Despite its own internal challenges, Pakistan has consistently taken state-level measures to protect the religious sentiments of non-Muslims. Sikh pilgrims visiting Kartarpur Sahib, Hindu devotees traveling to Hinglaj Mata and Katas Raj, and foreign tourists of diverse faiths have repeatedly acknowledged the hospitality, security, and respect extended to them.

Kartarpur Corridor: A Symbol of State Responsibility

Initiatives such as the Kartarpur Corridor stand as concrete evidence that state policy can be guided by respect, coexistence, and human dignity rather than ideological exclusion. No pilgrim’s turban is questioned, no religious symbol is forcibly removed, and no individual is publicly humiliated in the name of reform or nationalism.

A Comparative Perspective on State Values

The contrast between these two approaches highlights a fundamental truth: the strength of a state is measured not by religious dominance, but by its ability to protect the weakest and the different. Governments come and go, but the moral cost of institutionalized intolerance leaves long-lasting scars on society.

The Path Forward: Reform Through Introspection

For India, the way forward lies not in silencing minorities or dismissing criticism, but in listening to its own opposition voices, civil society, and constitutional conscience. A course correction is still possible—one that restores dignity, protects freedom of belief, and reaffirms the pluralistic ideals upon which the nation was founded.

True reform begins when power learns restraint, and nationalism learns humanity.

Syed Ali Raza Naqvi Bukhari

Unity of Peace, Economic Reform, and Global Unity

Founder & Chairman of Tehreek Istehkam Pakistan, and the author of Law of God and Social Democratic System. Advocate for truth, social justice, and reform in all sectors of society.