The Truth Behind Shaheen Bagh's Resistance: Celebrating BJP’s Defeat or Fighting Unlawful Acts?
The Shaheen Bagh community in Delhi did not celebrate the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s defeat in the recent assembly elections. Their activism is rooted in opposition to the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC), not in any electoral celebration. Here, we delve into the deeper reasons for their resistance and the significance of their actions.
Opposition to CAA and NRC
The Shaheen Bagh protests are primarily driven by a firm opposition to the CAA and NRC. These activists gathered to fight against these laws, which they believe violate their fundamental rights and are unconstitutional. The community members are fanatics about their religious beliefs rather than their country, as they see the issue as one of protection and identity.
Leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, who frequently addressed the protesters, emphasized the need to oppose any unlawful and unconstitutional actions, stating that separation of Assam from India would be another reason to celebrate. While his speech sought to incite further action, the protest itself was not about the BJP's defeat but about the CAA and NRC.
The Communal Divide and Political Motives
Before the assembly election results, the community was concerned about potential electoral malpractices, a common tactic in Indian politics. However, their primary focus was not on celebrating the BJP's defeat but on ensuring the preservation of their constitutional rights and identity.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its supporters attempted to silence them by questioning their motives. If Shaheen Bagh supporters were to celebrate the BJP’s defeat, the media would likely use this to undermine their activism and create confusion about their true intentions. By addressing the laws that affect them directly, the protesters maintain their focus and legitimacy.
Strategic Considerations for Political Parties
Political parties, including the opposition congressi and liberal organizations, have a strategic interest in the continuation of the protests. If the Shaheen Bagh activists celebrated the BJP’s defeat, it could divert public attention from the core issues they are protesting against. This would make it easier for the opposition parties to frame them as being politically biased, which could be detrimental to their long-term goals.
Instead, the protesters strategically continue to focus on the constitutional amendments. By raising questions about the CAA and NRC, they prevent any potential dilution of the cause. The Indian government must address these issues to satisfy the community and clear doubts, leading to a more informed public discourse.
The Shaheen Bagh community is non-partisan in their protest. They are united in their quest to challenge the manipulations within the law and ensure that their voice is heard. While the 2024 National Elections will present another opportunity for them to demonstrate their opposition to the BJP, their current efforts are geared towards the fundamental protection of their rights.
It is crucial to understand that the Shaheen Bagh activists are not merely celebrating a political defeat but fighting against a set of discriminatory laws that threaten their community's well-being. Their actions have been strategic, focused, and constructive in their pursuit of justice.
Keep reading to learn more about the ongoing resistance in Shaheen Bagh and the broader implications of these laws on Indian society.