South Asia, encompassing India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, is grappling with a rising crisis driven by religious nationalism. This growing trend threatens the region’s democratic values and social harmony, as shared ideological shifts intensify communal conflicts and divisions.

Religious Extremism and Nationalism in Bangladesh

• Bangladesh, which once focused on fostering a Bengali national identity, has seen a rise in religious extremism in recent years, driven largely by Islamist groups gaining more visibility and influence. 
• This shift has exacerbated the risks for religious minorities, particularly Hindus, who have historically been a significant part of the country’s demographic fabric.
• While the elite in Bangladesh often dismiss concerns about communal targeting as exaggerated or part of Indian propaganda, the increasing prominence of Islamist groups reflects a deeper ideological shift. 
• This shift risks undermining the secular foundations of the state, which were established at its inception, and the state’s ability to protect the rights of its minority communities, as exemplified by recent attacks on the Hindu community, temples, and idols. 

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Pakistan Crisis

• From its inception, Pakistan was create on religious lines, with religion playing a distinct role in its political evolution. 
• The country’s focus on religious and ethnic nationalism has led to extreme terrorism, not only targeting religious minorities but also causing deep sectarian divisions between Sunni and Shia Muslims. 
• The recent Shia-Sunni conflict in Kurram exemplifies the severe sectarian tensions plaguing the nation.

Learnings for India

• At the time of independence, India chose to include all religions, and secularism became one of its foundational values. 
• In recent years, concerns have been raised about the treatment of minorities, including reports of communal tensions, instances of violence, provocative speech, and disputes over places of worship. 
  • Such issues underscore the need for promoting inclusivity and upholding constitutional values to ensure social harmony.
• India must learn from these examples, considering its position on the global stage and its foundational values, and refrain from repeating the mistakes seen in neighboring countries.

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Conclusion

South Asia’s history underscores a harsh truth: state-sponsored religious nationalism always turns authoritarian, destroying democracy and humanity. Unless these nations reorient themselves toward inclusivity and secular governance, they risk perpetuating cycles of conflict and division. India must learn this hard lesson and proceed accordingly.