Islamophobia in India : a case study of Gujarat 2002

Abstract

Inter ethnic and inter religious conflict all over the world is enmeshed in identity discourses about ‘the self’ and ‘the other’. This study attempts to understand the role of public discourse and its language of signs, symbols and narratives in shaping perceptions about ‘the other’ during situations of inter ethnic violence. It focuses on the communication dynamics within the Hindu community during a case of targeted anti Muslim violence in Gujarat, India 2002 to understand the role of dehumanization and prejudice in causing and legitimising such violence. It argues that identity discourses such as the Hindu Right discourse in India contributes to dehumanizing religious minorities, especially Muslims. The process of dehumanization works at multiple levels in society and contributes to human rights violations.