In an ongoing demonstration of its evolving political strategy, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is embarking on a renewed endeavor to engage with India’s largest religious minority, the Sufis, through the Sufi Samvad Maha Abhiyan, or Sufi Dialogue. This initiative comes as a follow-up to the previously discussed Pasmanda Muslim outreach, which garnered widespread attention and endorsement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Under the banner of the BJP’s Minority Morcha, a program was recently conducted in Lucknow, wherein around 200 Sufi spiritual leaders from over 100 dargahs participated. They were encouraged to disseminate the government’s policies and initiatives among Muslim communities across the nation.
The driving force behind this approach is Prime Minister Modi’s appreciation for Sufism as a vital facet of Indian tradition. Sufism, characterized by its commitment to pluralism and inclusivity, is seen as a conduit for the BJP to connect with various strata of society, particularly within the Muslim community. It’s important to note that the party’s intention is not to enlist Sufis as members but to foster a meaningful dialogue and gain insights into the challenges and demands faced by common Muslims.
Committees have been established to facilitate this outreach in 22 states, with the belief that Sufism’s growth corresponds to a decrease in support for extremist ideologies. The Sufi outreach precedes both the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections and the Assembly polls in five states. In Uttar Pradesh, for instance, the BJP intends to reach out to the leaders of over 10,000 Sufi dargahs, aiming to present Prime Minister Modi’s regard for Sufis and dispel misinformation propagated by opposition parties.
By diversifying its engagement with Muslim communities, the BJP hopes to address specific segments within the population. The Pasmanda outreach focuses on backward-class Muslims, emphasizing that issues of caste hierarchy are not confined to Hindu society but span all communities in India. The Sufi outreach, on the other hand, is geared towards segments known for their inclusivity and the potential to counterbalance more rigid interpretations within Muslim society.
In essence, the BJP’s endeavor seeks to establish bridges of communication with a broader spectrum of India’s Muslim population, showcasing a multi-pronged approach to engage with various communities in the lead-up to important elections.
