Minorities on edge as India sliding into Hindutva extremism on fast track
New Delhi: India is rapidly drifting towards a Hindutva extremist state, where militant Hindu groups are increasingly emboldened to intimidate and terrorise religious minorities. In the latest alarming incident, members of the Hindu Raksha Dal were seen openly distributing swords and other weapons in Uttar Pradesh’s Ghaziabad district, raising serious concerns over communal harmony and minority safety.
According to Kashmir Media Service, videos circulating on social media showed activists of the Hindutva outfit distributing arms in the Shalimar Garden area, an act widely viewed as an attempt to instil fear among minorities and sow communal discord. Such activities underscore the growing culture of impunity enjoyed by extremist groups under the patronage of the Modi-led regime.
Police officials said the circulation of these videos prompted an investigation, revealing that weapons were being openly displayed and handed out in public, in clear violation of the law. The incident triggered panic among local residents, particularly members of minority communities, who fear escalating violence amid the rise of aggressive Hindutva vigilantism.
Observers and rights activists warn that the open arming of extremist groups reflects a dangerous trend in India, where hate-driven organisations are allowed to operate freely, often targeting Muslims and other minorities. Analysts say the unchecked spread of weapons by such groups could easily lead to communal clashes and large-scale violence.
Police officials said action would be taken against those using online platforms to spread hatred or provoke unrest.
In the last development, Ghaziabad police have arrested 10 members of the Hindu Raksha Dal in connection with the weapons distribution case. A police case has been registered against 16 named individuals and 25 to 30 unidentified persons, while efforts are underway to arrest the remaining accused.
