Life of Ahmadi Muslims in India: Freedom and Coexistence

India, with its diverse cultural and religious landscape, is home to a significant number of Ahmadi Muslims. Unlike in other parts of the world, such as Pakistan, Ahmadi Muslims in India enjoy full citizenship and freedom of religion. Their peaceful coexistence and the absence of persecution are a testament to the country's commitment to pluralism and religious tolerance.

Unique Identity within Islamic Faith

Ahmadi Muslims are a distinct group within the Islamic faith, comprising approximately one million individuals in India. Unlike their counterparts in Pakistan and other Islamic countries, Ahmadi Muslims do not face hindrance or persecution in India. This is a stark contrast to countries like Pakistan, where Ahmadi Muslims (also known as Qadianis) are often persecuted and discriminated against.

Qadianis and Other Subgroups

Among the Ahmadiyya Muslims, there are various subgroups, such as Qadianis, Ghulamis, and others. Qadianis, a significant minority in India, trace their origins to Qadian and believe in Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, who they consider as the promised reformer. These Qadianis are sometimes seen as a cult and have faced discrimination, particularly from conservative Muslim groups. However, they still enjoy freedom of worship and practice in India.

Indifferent to Theological Disputes

Azman's reference to Qadianis as a cult is a typical view held by many conservative Muslims. However, it is important to note that Qadianis consider Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as a messianic figure, much like how Christians believe Jesus is the Messiah. They also reject the concept of prophet-hood for Prophet Muhammad, which is a significant theological point of contention.

Religious Discrimination

While Ahmadi Muslims face relatively limited discrimination in India, the majority of Sunni Muslims consider Ahmadi Muslims as a separate religion in matters such as marriage, entry to mosques, religious gatherings, and journeys to pilgrimage sites. However, this discrimination is not widespread throughout the country and is more prevalent in certain regions where conservative beliefs are more pronounced.

Secular India: A Sanctuary for Religious Freedom

India's secular nature stands out as a beacon of hope for religious minorities. Unlike Pakistan, which claims to be an Islamic state yet fails to protect the religious freedoms of its citizens, India ensures that all religious groups enjoy their rights to practice and propagate their faith.

Comparative Analysis: Islamic States

Take the example of Bangladesh, where Ahmadi Muslim places of worship have been burned and religious texts desecrated. In stark contrast, India provides a safe haven for Ahmadi Muslims, where they can freely practice their religion and build places of worship.

Global Perspective

Other examples, such as Pakistan's treatment of Ahmadi Muslims, highlight the stark differences in how various countries treat religious minorities. The Shahid Abdus Salam case in Pakistan is a poignant example of religious persecution, where an epitaph was erased and the burial place damaged simply because the individual was an Ahmadi Muslim.

India, being secular, ensures that all citizens have the right to practice and spread the teachings of their religion, aligning closely with the teachings of the prophets who welcomed people from different faiths and backgrounds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the life of Ahmadi Muslims in India is marked by freedom and coexistence. They are not persecuted for their faith, unlike in some other parts of the world. India's commitment to religious freedom and secular principles makes it a sanctuary for minority religions, including Ahmadi Muslims. This highlights the importance of secular values in ensuring a harmonious and inclusive society.