Why Only Hindus? The Pain No One Talks About — From Bengal to Pahalgam | TDG Explainer

In recent times, several incidents across India have sparked a crucial question: Why are Hindus being targeted repeatedly — in riots, in terror attacks, and in symbolic violence? From Pahalgam to Bengal, and from social media trolling to physical attacks, many people are wondering what is behind this disturbing trend.

This article takes a deeper look into the possible reasons, reactions from experts, and what needs to change.

Recurring Attacks: What’s Happening?

Incidents like the terror attack in Pahalgam, where Hindu pilgrims were targeted, and riots in West Bengal reportedly linked to land disputes under the Waqf Act, have one thing in common — Hindus are often the victims.

• In Kashmir, terrorists have often targeted Hindu civilians and pilgrims.

• In West Bengal, political and religious tensions have seen Hindu homes and temples attacked.

• In many cities, we’ve seen violence simply because someone displayed a Hindu deity on their car or shop.

These are not isolated incidents. The pattern suggests that there is something more dangerous and deep-rooted at play.

Why Are Hindus Being Targeted?

1. Ideological Hatred by Radical Groups

Some radical terrorist groups see Hindus — and their symbols — as enemies. Attacks during religious festivals, pilgrimages, or at temples are meant to:

• Spread fear among Hindus.

• Hurt India’s internal peace.

• Show dominance over a religious community.

2. Symbolic Attacks to Cause Fear

A Ganesh idol on a car, saffron flags, or even a simple “Jai Shri Ram” chant has become enough to trigger violence in some areas. These symbols are seen as expressions of faith, but radicals treat them as threats.

3. Political and Vote-Bank Factors

In many states, politics around minority appeasement have led to selective outrage. Hindu victims of violence often receive less media or political attention. Some say this is done to protect vote banks, especially in states with large minority populations.

Here’s a separate column section you can add to your explainer. It’s written in a clear, simple format that introduces the data visuals and explains their significance:

Data & Analysis: Is Hindu Life at Risk?

To understand the increasing threat faced by Hindus in India and beyond, here are some fact-based insights supported by recent incidents and data:

1. Year-Wise Rise in Communal Riots

The number of communal riots in India saw a sharp rise in 2024 — a staggering 84% increase compared to the previous year. States like Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal reported the most cases.

See Graph 1: Year-wise Communal Riots in India (2020–2024) See Graph 2: Distribution of Communal Riots by State in 2024

2. Hindu Fatalities in Major Incidents

From temple desecration to targeted killings during protests and terror attacks, Hindu lives have been repeatedly endangered. Recent major events include:

• Murshidabad (2025) – Violence during Waqf Act protest.
• Pahalgam (2025) – A terror attack targeting Hindu pilgrims.
• Delhi & Bengal Riots (2020–2024) – High Hindu casualties recorded.

See Graph 3: Hindu Fatalities in Major Incidents (2020–2025)

3. Threats Abroad

Outside India, Hindus have also faced persecution in countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan — with incidents involving mob attacks, forced conversions, and temple demolitions.

While exact numbers are hard to gather from conflict zones, international human rights reports confirm a growing concern for Hindu safety worldwide.

Experts Speak: What Do Security and Social Analysts Say?

Security Experts

• They say the lack of strong law enforcement in communally sensitive areas allows mobs to act freely.

• There is little deterrence — attackers don’t fear punishment.

Sociologists

• Hindus are often seen as the “majority” and therefore not given the same “minority protection” that others get.

• But in many places, like Kashmir or certain districts in Bengal, Hindus are actually minorities.

Political Commentators

• Some believe that the silence around Hindu suffering is due to a deep-rooted political fear — raising voice for Hindus is wrongly seen as “communal”.

Why This Is Dangerous for India

• It sends a wrong message that Hindu lives matter less.

• It breaks the idea of equal citizenship in a secular country.

• It can fuel radicalisation on both sides — peace-loving citizens may lose trust in the system.

What Can Be Done?

1. Equal Justice for All

No matter the religion, every victim deserves justice. Governments must act equally, whether the victim is Hindu, Muslim, Christian, or of any faith.

2. Stronger Action Against Radicalism

Security agencies should take proactive action against hate speech, terror plans, and illegal gatherings — across communities.

3. Social Harmony Initiatives

Religious leaders, influencers, and educators must promote respect for all beliefs and call out violence — no matter who does it.

Conclusion

As a country, India has always celebrated diversity. But when one community is repeatedly attacked, silenced, or ignored — it weakens the very idea of unity.

Asking for justice for Hindu victims is not communalism — it’s humanity. It’s time for the nation to see through political games, demand equal protection for all, and ensure that no Indian is ever targeted because of their faith.