‘When will there be a discussion on Hindutva extremism?’: Ruhullah in Parliament

New Delhi: Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi on Wednesday delivered a sharp critique of rising extremism in the country, calling it a “collective failure” rooted in structural injustices, including flawed land reforms, a fractured social order and widening economic inequality.

Speaking in the House, he questioned the growing concentration of wealth and resources in the hands of a few, asking whose development is truly being prioritised as disparities deepen across regions and communities.

Ruhullah also raised concerns over what he described as the selective framing of extremism, saying the national discourse remains disproportionately focused on left-wing extremism while ignoring the spread of right-wing radicalism. He specifically referred to issues such as “love jihad” narratives and incidents involving cow vigilantism, alleging that Muslims are increasingly being targeted without adequate acknowledgement or response from those in power.

He said such developments reflect a broader pattern of marginalisation, where minorities, particularly Muslims, are made to feel excluded and, at times, even questioned about their belonging in the country. “When will there be a discussion on Hindutva extremism and the injustice faced by Muslims?” he asked, urging a more inclusive and honest national conversation.

Referring to Jammu and Kashmir, Ruhullah alleged that the region continues to face systemic injustices, including the appropriation of local resources. He added that beyond economic concerns, there is a growing sense of alienation among people, with narratives emerging that challenge their identity and place within the country.

Drawing from personal grief, he recalled the assassination of his father, describing it as part of the larger history of violence that has affected countless families in Kashmir. He stressed that extremism in any form — whether left-wing or right-wing — poses a serious threat to the country’s social fabric.

Ruhullah warned that divisive forces driven by exclusion and polarisation risk undermining the foundational principles of India, and called for a broader, more balanced debate that addresses all forms of extremism and ensures justice and dignity for every community.