JAMMU: History stands as a stark testament to the harsh reality that Hindus have often been complicit in their own subjugation-during the Mughal and British eras, and even after independence under Congress rule. Despite the massive Hindu resurgence evidenced by the 2014 mandate for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this pattern of self-destruction remains unchanged. Hindus, in various forms and guises, continue to enable their own annihilation, much like the Jai Chands of history, who facilitated aggressors for centuries. This has even been acknowledged by aides of Mughals also. Abul Fazl, in his Akbarnama, writes that Akbar sought “to soothe the minds of the Zamindars” by entering into matrimonial alliances with them.
Over time, Akbar expanded and institutionalized this policy, using it as a diplomatic tool to consolidate his rule. Despite their martial prowess, the Rajputs, who were one of the greatest obstacles to his policies targeting Hindus, were eventually subdued through a combination of military pressure and strategic alliances-taking Hindu girls as brides. Similarly, there could not be a worse example of internal betrayals than the unfortunate saga of valiant Prithviraj Chauhan, who defeated Mohammad Ghori in 17 battles and spared him each time, adhering to the Rajput code of honor. However, his benevolence proved fatal when Prithviraj was ultimately defeated and captured, aided by the treachery of Jai Chand, a fellow Rajput king, opening the gates for Islamic conquests in northern India. Internal divisions and betrayals among Hindus repeatedly enabled foreign aggressors to consolidate power.
Had any lessons been drawn from history, Prime Minister Modi would not find himself struggling in the 21st century to prevent the continued persecution and humiliation of Hindus due to modern times Jai Chands. The challenges Hindus face from within remain a significant hurdle, and unless the Prime Minister addresses these internal threats, it may become too late to save the community from the fate of their co-religionists in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and now Bangladesh. To tackle these chronic issues, a deep reflection on history is imperative.
The past thousand years of Indian sub-continental history are rife with instances of betrayal by ruling clans and elites during invasions by Mughals, Britons, and other aggressors. It is no secret that Hindu nobles and kings often sought alliances or marital ties with invading Muslim rulers in exchange for favors, such as protecting their kingdoms or granting jagirs. While strategic at face value, these alliances legitimized the invaders’ rule, leading to cultural erosion and centuries of subjugation.
Powerful Hindus also facilitated the logistical and cultural dominance of invading armies, enabling them to consolidate power in India. Temples were destroyed or converted into mosques, often with the tacit approval of local elites in return for personal benefits. This systemic betrayal fractured Hindu society, paving the way for colonial dominance. The British, for instance, exploited caste and regional differences with the help of collaborators within Hindu society.
Even after independence, the Congress party-rooted in British colonial strategy-continued the legacy of “divide and rule,” governing India for over six decades with the help of Hindu collaborators who prioritized personal gain over collective welfare. Alarmingly, this pattern persists today.
The greatest threat to Hindus now comes from within the broader Hindu community itself. These internal “anti-Hindu” forces are more damaging to the Sanatana psyche than the Mughals or the British. Disguised in various forms-pseudo-secular political parties, rights activists, urban intellectuals, communists, or religious zealots with Jihadi mindsets-they perpetuate narratives that vilify Hindus.
Pseudo-secular groups, often led by Hindus, amplify divisive narratives such as “the Constitution is in danger” or “Dalits are being subjugated by Hindus,” while ignoring atrocities committed by urban Naxals and Jihadis. These groups selectively highlight incidents involving Muslims, turning minor events into national issues, while disregarding the persecution and marginalization of Hindus in regions like Bangladesh and Pakistan. They remain silent on the genocide of Hindus in Kashmir and the violence in places like Sandeshkhali and Muzaffarnagar.
Prime Minister Modi must urgently counter these narratives, especially those rooted in caste-based divisions. He must address the infiltration of divisive ideologies like Ghazwa-e-Hind, which target marginalized segments of society through leaders from privileged sections. Redefining reservation quotas and ensuring welfare schemes reach the poorest segments within these communities is essential.
Socio-economic disparities among marginalized castes demand focused attention to prevent exploitation by the privileged sections within these groups. Often, these privileged individuals manipulate the system to retain reservation benefits for themselves, sidelining the truly needy. Countering this exploitation is crucial to limiting the influence of anti-national elements and divisive forces, ensuring that India’s future is not jeopardized by internal betrayals.
The challenges Hindus face are deeply rooted in history and require wisdom, unity, and decisive action to overcome.
