Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term has raised concerns over the absence of Muslim representation in newly formed cabinet.
During a grand oath-taking ceremony held in New Delhi, not a single Muslim member took the oath, marking the first time since India’s independence that no Muslim minister has been included in the council of ministers.
Historical Context of Muslim Representation:
Since India gained independence, every newly elected council of ministers has included at least one Muslim representative.
However, in the 18th Lok Sabha, only 24 out of 543 members are Muslim MPs.
Modi’s third-term Cabinet:
👉 Hindu: 66
👉 Sikh: 2
👉 Christian: 1
👉 Jain: 1
👉 Buddhist: 1
👉 Muslim: 0Zero Muslim representation. Is this the new untouchability in India? #IndianMuslim
— Muslim Youth Squad (@MYSIndia_) June 10, 2024
None of these MPs are from Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), underlining a sharp decline in Muslim representation compared to previous governments.
Concerns Over Diversity and Inclusivity:
The absence of Muslim ministers in Modi’s third term cabinet has sparked concerns about the government’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
Also read: What PM Modi’s third term means for the world
India’s population is significantly diverse, with a substantial Muslim minority, and the omission of Muslim representation in the cabinet has prompted questions about equal representation and minority rights.
Modi’s Election Campaign and Tone Shift:
During his recent election campaign, Modi’s rhetoric included religious themes and criticisms of the opposition’s approach to India’s minority Muslim community.
Despite the lack of Muslim MPs from the BJP, Modi has shifted his tone since the election results, emphasizing the importance of unanimity in governance and adopting a more conciliatory approach.
“We have won the majority … but to run the country it is unanimity that is crucial … we will strive for unanimity,” he said on Friday after the NDA formally named him coalition head.
Domestic and International Reactions:
The formation of Modi’s third term cabinet without Muslim representation has drawn attention both domestically and internationally.
Critics argue that the absence of Muslim ministers may signal a narrowing of representation in the Indian government, contrary to the secular and pluralistic principles enshrined in India’s constitution.
