The Financial Times, through its groundbreaking investigative journalism, has brought to light a distressing reality in China – the systemic erasure of Muslim identity and culture. The State is actively replacing Islamic architecture with symbols reflective of Chinese ideology. A staggering 2,312 mosques in the country have been reportedly destroyed or modified since 2018. As alarming as this obliteration is, it also raises a crucial question: Why does the Muslim world remain notably silent in the face of such blatant cultural and religious suppression?
As documented by FT, China’s audacious actions demand global attention and condemnation. The lack of a collective response from the Muslim world underscores the complexity of international relations and the challenges of addressing human rights violations in the geopolitical context. It’s a reminder for the global community to collectively and urgently advocate for justice, human dignity, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Why are Muslim nations quiet?
This troubling silence extends beyond China’s architectural transformations, reaching the deeply disturbing issue of Uyghur repression in concentration camps. Pakistan’s muted response to the alleged human rights abuses in these camps amplifies the perplexity surrounding its relationship with China. It’s a confounding partnership, uniting a nation founded on the principles of Islam with the largely godless society in communist China.
Pakistan has often called out the West for perceived offences against Muslims and Muslim sentiments. However, when it comes to China, the country remains eerily silent. This contradiction demands more than just raised eyebrows; it necessitates a critical examination of the geopolitical dynamics at play. China is actively erasing elements of Muslim identity, but Pakistan maintains an amicable relationship with it, revealing the complex and selective nature of international alliances. Selective advocacy for Muslim sentiments on the global stage, coupled with diplomatic alliances, shows how Islam can be wielded as a political ideology, often serving the interests of the elite in Pakistan.
The apparent contradiction in values raises eyebrows and prompts a critical examination of the geopolitical dynamics at play. Understanding the intricate web that binds these two nations becomes crucial in deciphering the complexities of their alliance and its broader implications for human rights and global stability.
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Muslims thrive in India
This intricate dance between political ideologies and religious affiliations takes a more confusing turn in India. Some people are actively engaged in perpetuating narratives that paint India as an oppressor of Muslims. The reality on the ground, however, contradicts their arguments. Diverse forms of Islam thrive in Hindu-majority India. Unlike in Saudi Arabia, Iran, Pakistan, or Indonesia, all sects of Islam practice with full religious freedom, safety, and prosperity in this democratic, secular republic.
However, intellectual groups with Islamist and communist ideals, while enjoying the privileges of being part of a vibrant democracy, play a duplicitous game aligned with foreign interests. It’s a peculiar scenario where both communists and Islamists, in the diverse tapestry of Indian society, join forces to challenge the country’s religious fabric and territorial integrity, enjoying the freedom to express views that often undermine the very essence of the nation. They would never get this freedom in China, where communists crack down hard on dissent. It shows the delicate balance India maintains amid divergent ideologies.
The Islamic world’s quietude may be strategic, as the primary focus appears to be on countering what they perceive as common enemies—Hindu Majority India, Jewish Majority Israel, and the Christian Majority West. In this complex geopolitical landscape, an alliance with Communist China can temporarily help them confront these three entities. Should they succeed in overcoming these perceived adversaries, the next phase would involve a confrontation with their temporary ally, the communists. This strategic manoeuvring reveals a multifaceted diplomatic approach, where alliances are forged based on immediate objectives, creating a geopolitical chessboard where the endgame remains shrouded in uncertainty.
Indian Muslims should understand that the majority of democratic nations, established largely by non-Muslims, offer the best environment for them to live with dignity, preserve their identity, and enjoy freedom. In contrast, some Muslim-majority nations – and communist governments – may not provide the same level of religious freedom for individuals to practice their faith according to their preferences.
Amana Begam Ansari is a columnist and TV news panelist. She runs a weekly YouTube show called ‘India This Week by Amana and Khalid’. She tweets @Amana_Ansari. Views are personal.
(Edited by Zoya Bhatti)