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Selective Secularism: Hindus Sidelined, Iftar Prioritized – Vote Bank Politics at Play | TDG Explainer

This selective approach raises questions about vote bank politics and the sidelining of Hindu sentiments.

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Selective Secularism: Hindus Sidelined, Iftar Prioritized – Vote Bank Politics at Play | TDG Explainer

A heated debate has erupted after Mohtarma Maino, Maulana Akhilesh, and Jaya Begum attended the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) Iftar but skipped the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha in Ayodhya and the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj (Iftar Over Faith). Their absence at two of the most significant Hindu religious events is raising serious questions:

  • Is this genuine secularism or a deliberate strategy to sideline Hindu sentiments?
  • Are Hindu traditions being ignored to safeguard vote banks?

Double Standards: Selective Respect for Religious Sentiments?

Political hypocrisy is on full display as these leaders happily attend Iftar parties with elaborate media coverage but choose silence and absence when it comes to Hindu religious milestones.

“If secularism is about respecting all religions equally, why are Hindu events being treated as second-class occasions?” asked a senior political commentator.

  • Are they afraid of alienating their core minority voter base by participating in Hindu events?
  • Why is embracing Hindu culture considered politically risky, but showcasing Iftar attendance seen as a badge of secularism?

Vote Bank Politics: Pandering to One, Ignoring Another?

It is no secret that Iftar diplomacy has become a symbolic political ritual to maintain a strong connection with minority communities. But critics argue that avoiding Hindu events is not a matter of personal faith but a calculated political maneuver.

  • “They want the votes of all communities but respect only one,” remarked a right-wing activist on social media.
  • “Why attend Iftar if you can’t honor the sentiments of Ram Mandir devotees?” questioned a prominent political analyst.

This pattern of selective outreach raises an uncomfortable but necessary question:

  • Are these leaders deliberately avoiding Hindu religious events to project a “secular” image while securing minority votes?

Hindu Sentiments: Ignored for Political Gains?

The Ram Mandir Pran Pratistha in Ayodhya was not just a religious event but a historic moment for millions of Hindus. Similarly, the Maha Kumbh Mela is one of the largest spiritual gatherings in the world.

“When millions gathered to witness India’s cultural resurgence, where were these so-called champions of secularism?” asked a prominent Hindu leader.

  • Why does attending Hindu events become a “political liability” for these leaders?
  • Is ignoring Hindu sentiments a price they are willing to pay for maintaining their secular façade?

Controversial Statements: What the Public is Saying

The absence of these leaders has triggered strong reactions from across the political spectrum:

  • “They’ll go to Iftar but avoid Kumbh. This is not secularism, this is appeasement.” – A senior BJP leader
  • “It’s unfortunate that leaders who claim to be secular cannot participate in Hindu cultural milestones.” – Prominent Hindu scholar
  • “This selective respect for religious traditions is dividing India, not uniting it.” – Social media user

Even neutral voices are asking:

  • “Why is it that political correctness allows Iftar visits but frowns upon Ram Mandir participation?”
  • “Is appeasement politics slowly eroding India’s cultural balance?”

Point of View: Is This Fair to Hindus?

As an observer, it’s hard not to see the double standards at play. While political leaders preach “inclusivity and secularism,” their actions paint a different picture. Attending Iftar for political optics while ignoring Hindu events is not a mark of secularism—it is political convenience disguised as inclusivity.

“Hindus have always been tolerant and inclusive, but their patience is being tested. Will they continue to be ignored for political gains?”

This pattern is not just unfair but also potentially dangerous for national unity. When one community’s sentiments are prioritized over another, it breeds resentment and distrust.

Final Verdict: Time for Hindus to Question Selective Secularism?

As India moves forward, it’s time to ask:

  • Shouldn’t true secularism mean equal respect for all religions?
  • Will this pattern of selective respect for religious sentiments continue unchecked?