Bulldozer Politics, Mosque Demolitions, and the Growing Sense of Insecurity Among Indian Muslims

Bulldozer Politics and the Growing Anxiety Among Indian Muslims

Recently, U.S. Congresswoman Ilhan Omar stated that Indian Muslims are facing what she described as the “eighth stage of genocide.” Whether one agrees with that characterization or not, her remarks raise an uncomfortable question: if the situation is indeed becoming this serious, what are the country’s major Muslim organizations waiting for?

When bulldozers move beyond homes and businesses and begin targeting mosques, it becomes difficult to dismiss these developments as isolated incidents. Today’s victim may be someone else, but tomorrow it could be anyone. Those who claim to represent the community still have an opportunity to become a meaningful voice for Indian Muslims. Silence, however, carries its own consequences.

Over the past several years, Indian Muslims have witnessed a series of troubling developments. There have been incidents of mob lynching, demolitions of homes and shops, and a growing number of disputes involving claims over mosques and dargahs. More recently, reports of mosque demolitions have added to a sense of insecurity within sections of the community.

The scale of bulldozer-driven demolitions has also drawn significant attention. According to reports, more than 150,000 homes were demolished across India within a two-year period, leaving approximately 738,000 people displaced. Data cited by the Housing and Land Rights Network (HLRN) indicates that Muslims emerged as the most affected group in around 44 percent of punitive demolition cases. These figures have fueled concerns about whether such actions are disproportionately impacting particular communities.

Almost every week, reports emerge from different parts of the country about mosques or religious structures being demolished in the name of road widening, beautification projects, or alleged encroachments. For many observers, the frequency of such incidents has become a source of growing concern.

Legal challenges have been mounted against demolition drives, and several organizations approached the courts seeking relief. The Supreme Court has also issued guidelines regarding demolitions. Yet despite these interventions, many affected individuals continue to report feelings of uncertainty, insecurity, and helplessness.

Perhaps the most troubling aspect of this debate is the anxiety it has created among ordinary Muslims. Many worry about their future, their homes, and their place in society. At the same time, political opposition parties are often accused of remaining silent, while many self-proclaimed community leaders limit their response to statements and social media posts.

What makes this issue particularly sensitive is that it is no longer viewed by many as merely a political dispute. Increasingly, it is being discussed in terms of identity, heritage, and belonging. For those who feel targeted, the fear extends beyond the loss of property; it touches questions of dignity, history, and collective memory.

At moments like these, the need is not only for criticism but also for constructive action. Communities must organize peacefully, assert their constitutional rights, pursue legal remedies, and engage with democratic institutions. Equally important is holding accountable those organizations and leaders who claim to represent Muslim interests.

The debate over demolitions, minority rights, and equal protection under the law is ultimately larger than any single community. It is a test of democratic values, constitutional safeguards, and the promise of equal citizenship. The question many are asking today is whether the institutions and voices that claim to stand for justice are prepared to meet that challenge.

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Justice After 76 Years… But the Story Isn’t Over Yet

Sometimes a mistake doesn’t just affect one person—it affects generations.

The Meer Baksh land dispute from Himachal Pradesh is one such story.

It all began after the Partition of India in 1947. A large piece of land belonging to Sultan Mohammad was declared “Evacuee Property,” meaning the authorities assumed he had left India for Pakistan.

But here’s the shocking part:

Years later, the government itself admitted in court that Sultan Mohammad never migrated to Pakistan. In fact, he continued living in Himachal Pradesh until 1983.

That raises a simple but powerful question:

If he never left India, how could his land be treated as abandoned property?

This question eventually reached the courts.

The Himachal Pradesh High Court ruled that declaring the land as Evacuee Property was illegal from the very beginning. Later, the Supreme Court also dismissed the state’s appeal and made it clear that a citizen’s property cannot be taken away on a false assumption.

But by then, decades had passed.

Parts of the land had already been used for public development projects, and major institutions had been built on it.

Today, Meer Baksh’s family continues to fight for what they believe is their rightful claim.

According to media reports, the family is seeking compensation or equivalent land worth approximately ₹1,061 crore based on the present value of the property.

However, one important fact must be noted:

The Supreme Court has NOT ordered the government to pay ₹1,061 crore.

That figure is the family’s claim, not a court-ordered compensation amount.

What the courts have recognized is that the original declaration of the property as Evacuee Property was legally flawed.

This case is a reminder that governments can make mistakes—but when a citizen’s rights are taken away unjustly, the passage of time does not erase the need for accountability.

Seventy-six years later, this case stands as a powerful reminder that justice may be delayed, but the truth cannot remain buried forever.

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Kochi, Kerala Travel Vlog | The Queen of the Arabian Sea

Kis ki Talash hai hamein, Kis ke asar mein hain.

Jab se chale hain Ghar se, Musalsal Safar mein hain.

- Aashufta Changezi

"What are we searching for, and whose influence guides us? Since the day we left home, we have been on a never-ending journey."

Today, we begin another exciting adventure—this time to the beautiful city of Kochi, Kerala, also known as Cochin. In this journey, we'll explore the best places to visit in Kochi, how to reach them, and why this city is one of India's most fascinating travel destinations.

My backpack is ready. It's 3:00 AM, and I'm all set to leave home. Let's begin this beautiful journey.

Flying to Kochi

I was traveling to Kochi on an IndiGo flight. There's something magical about takeoffs and landings that never fails to excite me, which is why I always prefer a window seat. While aisle seats make it easier to walk around and access the restroom, nothing compares to the view from a window seat. On long flights, I often rest my head against the window and drift off to sleep.

As dawn slowly approached, the view from above Delhi's IGI Airport was absolutely mesmerizing. Since I booked my ticket around ten days in advance, the economy-class fare from New Delhi to Kochi cost me roughly ₹8,000. Business-class tickets were available for around ₹16,000. The flight duration from Delhi to Kochi is approximately three hours.

If you prefer traveling by train, the Kerala Express is one of the fastest options from New Delhi to Ernakulam Town. Covering nearly 2,811 kilometers in about 44 hours and 45 minutes, the fare is approximately ₹3,500 for Second AC and around ₹2,500 for Third AC.

Welcome to Kochi

Kochi is a major port city located on the coast of the Arabian Sea. Ernakulam refers to the mainland portion of the city. Spread across nearly 95 square kilometers, Kochi is Kerala's second most populous city and the state's largest urban agglomeration.

Since the 14th century, Kochi has been a major center of the spice trade on India's western coast. Often called the "Queen of the Arabian Sea," Kochi is one of the world's top-rated international tourist destinations. Here, visitors can experience traces of prehistoric, historical, and modern eras all in one place.

Kochi is truly the heart of Kerala. It serves as the state's financial capital and is home to thriving industries, including IT and maritime trade. As one of India's major port cities, it offers a unique blend of urban convenience, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage.

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Kochi rarely disappoints.

Kochi International Airport & Cherai Beach

Kochi International Airport is impressive and beautifully maintained, easily matching many international airports around the world.

One of the city's most popular attractions is Cherai Beach, located about 27 kilometers from the airport. A taxi ride takes roughly an hour. Cherai Beach offers the perfect escape from city life, and the best time to visit is during the evening when the sunset paints the sky in breathtaking colors.

From here, you can also visit Vypin Island, one of Kochi's most famous tourist destinations. This 27-kilometer-long barrier island is surrounded by the Arabian Sea on one side and the backwaters and tributaries of the Periyar River on the other. Its pristine beaches, fishing villages, and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination.

Other attractions on the island include:

• Munambam Fishing Harbour

• Elamkunnapuzha Subrahmanya Temple

• Cherai Temple

• Pallathamkulangara Devi Temple

• Azhikode Lighthouse

• Kuzhupilly Beach

• Pallipuram Fort

More Places to Explore

Kochi is packed with attractions. Some notable places include:

• Dutch Palace

• Bolgatty Island

• Willingdon Island

• Fort Kochi Beach

• Kodanad Elephant Training Centre

• Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary

• Marine Drive

Marine Drive, in particular, is one place you simply cannot miss when visiting Kochi.

Journey to Kumarakom

Our destination for this trip was The Zuri Kumarakom Kerala Resort & Spa, located approximately 73 kilometers from Kochi International Airport. Travelers arriving by train or bus can use Kottayam as the nearest transport hub.

Upon arrival, we received a traditional Kerala welcome. Drums echoed through the air, a ceremonial tilak was applied to our foreheads, and refreshing coconut water was served.

Nestled on the shores of the magnificent Vembanad Lake, this five-star luxury heritage resort is one of Kerala's finest holiday destinations. Surrounded by peaceful backwaters and lush greenery, it offers an atmosphere of complete tranquility.

The property features beautifully designed rooms, cottages, and luxury villas. Options range from lagoon-facing rooms to lavish private-pool villas.

The resort has:

• 18 Zuri Rooms

• 16 Deluxe Rooms

• 28 Cottages

• 10 Presidential Pool Villas

A total of 72 accommodations.

I stayed in a Zuri Room. One of the most unforgettable experiences was sipping aromatic tea on my private veranda while watching the golden sunrise reflect on the calm blue lagoon.

The resort's Maya Spa offers Ayurvedic therapies focused on wellness, rejuvenation, anti-aging treatments, and overall relaxation of mind, body, and soul.

A Paradise of Nature

The natural beauty here is beyond words.

Everywhere you look, there is something beautiful to admire. The combination of the serene blue lagoon and Kerala's lush greenery creates an almost dreamlike atmosphere.

It feels as though you're walking through a painting rather than reality.

As evening arrived, classical cultural performances brought the resort to life. The lighting, music, and ambiance created a magical experience.

Before dinner, our group even arranged an orchestra performance, followed by dancing and celebration.

Later, taking an evening walk beside the illuminated lakeshore became one of the most memorable moments of the trip.

Travel teaches us to live every moment fully because we never know when we'll experience such beauty again.

A Rainy Morning on Vembanad Lake

The next morning began with light rain.

I spent some time simply sitting outside my room, watching the peaceful waters of Vembanad Lake. The mornings here are just as enchanting as the evenings.

Soon, a call from reception reminded us that it was time for boating.

Upon reaching the reception area, we were welcomed once again with traditional Kerala drums. Some members of our group couldn't resist dancing to the energetic beats.

Speed Boat Adventure

Although houseboats were available, we chose the more thrilling speedboat experience.

Our first stop was a local fishing area, where we learned about traditional fishing methods used by local fishermen who venture into the lake's waters to catch fish.

Rice Fields

One fascinating sight was the rice fields located on reclaimed land surrounded by water. The fertile conditions make rice farming highly productive in this region.

The Toddy Experience

Next, we visited a traditional toddy-tapping site.

Toddy is extracted from coconut flower clusters. The fresh, unfermented version is known as Neera, a sweet and nutritious natural drink. Once fermentation begins, it turns into the mildly alcoholic beverage commonly called toddy.

Toddy tappers climb coconut trees using rope ladders, carefully prepare the flower buds, and collect the milky sap in clay pots.

The longer the sap ferments, the higher its alcohol content becomes. Traditionally, toddy contains around 8% alcohol and is considered a natural local beverage in Kerala.

Back to the Resort

After the boating excursion, we stopped for lunch before returning to the resort.

A traditional drum ensemble welcomed us once again, but this time members of our group grabbed the drums and tried playing them themselves.

After a long and exciting day, we decided to rest and save the famous snake boat experience for the following morning.

Snake Boat Experience

Most people have heard of Kerala's famous Snake Boat Races during the Onam Festival.

The next morning, we experienced a traditional snake boat ride before beginning our journey back to Delhi.

A Final Tip Before Leaving Kerala

Kerala is world-famous for its spices.

If you're visiting Kerala, don't forget to take home some authentic and fresh spices. Just remember that many spices must be packed in checked baggage, as some are not permitted in carry-on luggage.

And with that, our Kerala adventure comes to an end.

Thank you for joining me on this incredible journey through Kochi and Kumarakom.

Until the next adventure, keep exploring, keep traveling, and keep collecting memories.

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