NIA raids in Tamil Nadu spark outcry over targeting of Muslims amid growing intimidation
Chennai: In a sweeping operation, India’s dreaded National Investigation Agency (NIA) raided over ten locations across Tamil Nadu on allegations linked to Hizb ut-Tahrir, a banned Muslim organization that critics argue has no presence in the country.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the raids, which began early this morning, were prompted by a case initiated by the Chennai Central Crime Branch, centering on accusations of brainwashing individuals to recruit them into the organization.
The NIA has taken over the investigation from local authorities, leading to a heightened atmosphere of fear among Muslim community members. Reports indicate that the case involves three individuals from Roya Peeta, who are accused of attempting to persuade others to join the group.
The NIA’s actions, which included searches in Tambaram, Pudukottai, and Kanyakumari, have not yet resulted in the recovery of any incriminating documents. However, five individuals have been detained for questioning in connection with the case, raising alarm about the potential for unjust persecution.
Critics and community leaders are voicing concerns that these raids are part of a broader pattern of targeting and intimidating the Muslim population in India. Naeem, a prominent social activist, expressed his frustration, stating, “No such organization exists in India. The actions taken against Muslims are merely attempts to instill fear in society. This relentless targeting must cease.”
The situation highlights ongoing tensions in India, where it is widely believed that the Muslim community is increasingly under scrutiny and persecution amid the rise of Hindutva in Modi’s India.
