Religious Extremism and Terrorism in India: A Case Study of Specific Events

Description

Page: 434-438

Kanishka Awana (Amity Institute of Social Science, Amity University, Uttar Pradesh)

Religious extremism and terrorism are deeply intertwined phenomena that have shaped the socio-political landscape of modern India. This article explores the conceptual framework of religious extremism and terrorism, the relationship between the two, and the growing concern over their manifestations in the Indian context. Through detailed case studies of major incidents such as the Babri Masjid demolition, the Godhra riots, the Parliament and Mumbai attacks, and the recent Reasi incident, this article highlights the multifaceted impact of these events on Indian society. Additionally, the role of women in terrorism, the psychological aftermath on citizens, and the strategic importance of Jammu and Kashmir are discussed to present a comprehensive analysis. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding religious extremism in India for formulating effective counter-terrorism policies and fostering communal harmony (Silke, 2003; Varshney, 2002).