BSF Report Flags ‘Radicalisation Of Muslims’ at Jaisalmer Border

In a study, the BSF says Muslim population at Jaisalmer’s border villages has increased by 22-15 percent.

A study by the Border Security Forces (BSF) has reportedly raised concerns over the increasing radicalisation of Muslims along the border of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, The Times of India reported on Saturday, 1 December 2018.

According to the report, a BSF study found that there was a 22-25 percent growth rate in Muslim population compared to the 8-10 percent growth among other communities. The survey was carried out across six villages in Jaisalmer – Mohangarh, Nachna, Bahla, Bharewala, Sam, Tanot and Pokhran.

Changes were reportedly noticed in the hairstyles and dresses worn by the residents, who are moving away from traditional Rajasthani culture and leaning towards ‘Arab customs’, the report said. It added that even the interaction between the Hindu and Muslim communities in the region has reduced.

Although the study warns about radicalisation, there is no evidence of anti-national activities in the area.

“The report points to the presence of radical elements who are suspected to be luring local people to pass on information relating to military movements.” 

A ministry official, as told to The Telegraph

Meanwhile, there has also been an increase in the number of people joining Hindu right-wing organisations.

“The activities of Hindu right-wing organisations have made Hindus in the village of Mohangarh, Nachna and Pokaharan more concerned about their religion. The membership in such organisations is increasing and they are extending their horizons at different spheres of religious activities, ranging from training, monetary and communal support to education. However, no direct confrontation with other community has been noticed,” The Times of India quoted the BSF report as saying.     

The Telegraph reported that several Home Ministry officials believe that such a report could foster insecurity among the Muslim population in the area.

“Such profiling will send a wrong signal: Minority community members might think they are being systematically spied on and investigated.”

An IPS officer attached to the Home Ministry, as told to The Telegraph 

BSF Chief Rajnikant Mishra, however, said that the report was a routine study.