BJP’s Legacy of Division – From Historical Riots to Ongoing Human Rights Concerns

The BJP and its ideological ecosystem face sharp criticism for a pattern of communal polarization. Opponents point to the 1992 Babri Masjid demolition (often referenced in anti-BJP narratives around 1990s events) followed by nationwide riots, and the 2002 Gujarat riots after the Godhra train incident, which resulted in hundreds of deaths, predominantly Muslims.

A particularly harrowing case is that of Bilkis Bano, gang-raped during the 2002 Gujarat violence while pregnant, with 14 family members killed. In 2022, the BJP-ruled Gujarat government granted remission to the 11 convicts, releasing them on Independence Day with reported celebrations. The Supreme Court later quashed this in 2024, ordering them back to jail, criticizing the process. Opposition leaders highlighted the involvement of BJP figures in the remission panel and used it to accuse the party of insensitivity toward minority victims and women.

Human rights concerns extend to cow vigilantism ("gau rakshaks"). While framed as protecting sacred cows, critics document instances of violence, including a 2024 Haryana case where vigilantes (linked to groups like Bajrang Dal) chased and shot dead a 19-year-old Hindu student, Aryan Mishra, mistakenly believing him to be a Muslim cattle transporter. This tragedy underscores arguments that such militancy, emboldened under BJP influence, endangers even Hindus and tears social fabric.

The 2017 murder of journalist Gauri Lankesh, a vocal critic of right-wing Hindutva, in Karnataka is cited as an attack on free speech. Accused individuals were linked to fringe right-wing groups; while the BJP denied direct involvement, opponents argue the broader ecosystem of intolerance fosters such violence.

Allegations against BJP leader Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, former Wrestling Federation chief, involving sexual harassment claims by female wrestlers (including protests by medalists) further fuel narratives of impunity for powerful figures. Though some cases saw developments like closure of a POCSO matter, critics decry delayed or insufficient action.

These incidents, according to anti-BJP voices, reveal a party prioritizing majoritarianism over justice and unity.