In today’s India, the Pasmanda Movement has emerged as a critical force advocating for the rights and recognition of marginalized Muslim communities. Despite Islam’s teachings of equality, caste-based discrimination persists among Indian Muslims, revealing the stark realities that Pasmanda Muslims face. This article explores the growing relevance of the Pasmanda Movement in light of deepening caste-based discrimination and highlights recent instances that underscore the urgency of this cause.
The term “Pasmanda,” derived from Persian, means “those who have fallen behind.” It collectively refers to the Dalit, backward, and tribal Muslims who face systemic discrimination within the Muslim community. Historically, Indian Muslims have been divided into hierarchical categories: Ashraf (noble or upper-caste Muslims), Ajlaf (backward Muslims), and Arzal (Dalit Muslims). The Pasmanda Movement seeks to uplift the Ajlaf and Arzal Muslims who have been relegated to the margins of society.
Caste-based discrimination among Indian Muslims is not merely a relic of the past but a pressing issue that manifests in various forms, from social exclusion to violent crimes. A poignant example is the recent honor killing in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, in which both the parties involved were Muslims. In this case, a 21-year-old woman was brutally murdered and her body burned by her maternal uncle and aunt because she was in a relationship with a man from another caste. This horrifying incident highlights the lethal consequences of caste prejudices within the Muslim community. Other instances of discrimination include the segregation in mosques, barriers to certain religious practices, and derogatory treatment by upper-caste Muslims. These pervasive prejudices perpetuate the marginalization of Pasmanda Muslims and underscore the necessity of the Pasmanda Movement. Pasmanda Muslims often find themselves at the lowest socioeconomic strata, engaged in menial, low-paying jobs. They face significant obstacles in accessing quality education, employment opportunities, and healthcare. Political marginalization is another critical challenge for Pasmanda Muslims. Historically, political representation has favored Ashraf Muslims, leaving Pasmanda Muslims with minimal influence in policymaking.
The Pasmanda Movement aims to rectify this imbalance by demanding greater political representation and reservation in educational institutions and government jobs.
The Pasmanda Movement stands at a critical juncture in contemporary India, symbolizing the fight for dignity, equality, and justice for millions of marginalized Muslims. As instances of caste-based discrimination continue to surface, the movement’s relevance and urgency are undeniable. It is imperative for the broader Indian society, including policymakers, community leaders, and activists, to recognize and address the injustices faced by Pasmanda Muslims. Only through collective effort and a commitment to genuine social reform can we hope to dismantle entrenched caste prejudices and build a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
-Insha Warsi,
Francophone and Journalism Studies,
Jamia Millia Islamia
