Discrimination and Hate Escalate in India as 44 Kashmiris Detained in Assam

Introduction

In a disturbing display of prejudice and fear-mongering, 44 Kashmiri workers were detained in Assam’s Tinsukia district on the morning of November 17, 2025. The men, who were simply traveling for work, were detained by locals who deemed them “suspicious” simply because of their Kashmiri identity. This unjust treatment highlights the growing climate of suspicion, hate, and intolerance faced by Kashmiris in India. The actions of the local authorities and the broader response from Indian society reflect a pattern of systemic discrimination that has only worsened under the current Hindutva BJP government.

Unjust Detention of Kashmiri Workers

The group of detained men, originating from Doda and Kishtwar in occupied Jammu and Kashmir, were brought to Assam for transmission line work in Arunachal Pradesh. Despite having legitimate employment, the men were viewed as threats solely because of their Kashmiri background. In the wake of the Delhi blast on November 10, the locals in Assam falsely linked their presence to the blast, turning them over to the police for verification. This incident is a stark reminder of how Kashmiris are unfairly targeted across India, where even their peaceful travel is met with harassment.

♦ Harassment Based on Identity: The men were detained solely for their Kashmiri identity, which reflects the deep-rooted prejudice against them.
♦ Unfounded Suspicion: The locals’ reaction shows how easily Kashmiris are branded as threats without any credible reason.
♦ Institutionalized Profiling: This incident is part of a larger pattern of profiling and discrimination against Kashmiris, promoted by both society and the state.

The Role of Hindutva in Fostering Discrimination

This incident is not isolated but part of a broader campaign under the Hindutva-driven BJP government, where Kashmiris and Muslims are increasingly vilified and treated as potential threats. Under the current regime, the government has cultivated an atmosphere of fear and suspicion, where the mere identity of being Kashmiri or Muslim is enough to trigger hostility. The Modi government’s rhetoric has emboldened nationalist groups to act with impunity, leading to more frequent cases of discrimination, harassment, and violence against Kashmiris across India.

♦ Hindutva’s Impact on Society: The BJP government’s actions have reinforced a narrative where Kashmiris and Muslims are viewed as “outsiders” or “enemies of the state.”
♦ Fear and Suspicion: The rhetoric of the ruling party fuels a climate of collective suspicion, leading to the unjust treatment of innocent people.
♦ Nationalism and Exclusion: The Hindutva ideology has intensified the marginalization of Muslims, particularly Kashmiris, leading to their continued victimization.

The Broader Pattern of Intolerance

The detention of these 44 Kashmiris reflects a wider trend of discrimination and intolerance against the Kashmiri population in India. Such incidents are not one-offs but part of a continuous pattern where Kashmiris are routinely targeted by the state and citizens alike. They face violence, harassment, and restrictions on their freedoms simply because of their ethnic and religious identity. Experts note that this systemic discrimination, often supported or overlooked by the Indian government, fosters fear, increases social divisions, and marginalizes religious and ethnic minorities across the country.

♦ Routine Targeting: This is part of an ongoing pattern where Kashmiris face daily discrimination in every aspect of their lives, from travel to employment.
♦ State-Sanctioned Intolerance: The government’s silence on such issues signals its tacit approval of these actions, encouraging further discrimination.
♦ Deepening Divisions: These actions contribute to deepening social divisions, where Kashmiris are viewed as outsiders in their own country.

Pakistan’s Stand Against India’s Discrimination

Pakistan has consistently raised the issue of human rights violations in Kashmir at international platforms. The recent detention of Kashmiri workers in Assam adds to the growing list of injustices that have been ignored by the Indian government. While India continues to foster an environment of hate and suspicion, Pakistan calls for global recognition of the suffering of Kashmiris and the need for their protection under international law. The international community must hold India accountable for its systematic mistreatment of Kashmiris and other minorities.

♦ Global Advocacy: Pakistan has consistently advocated for the rights of Kashmiris, drawing attention to the widespread discrimination they face in India.
♦ India’s Disregard for Human Rights: India’s continued silence and inaction on such violations shows its disregard for the rights and dignity of its Muslim and Kashmiri population.
♦ International Responsibility: The international community must intervene to protect the human rights of Kashmiris and put pressure on India to end its discriminatory policies.

Conclusion

The detention of 44 Kashmiri workers in Assam is a clear example of the increasing discrimination and hate faced by Kashmiris in India. Under the BJP government, fueled by Hindutva ideology, ordinary Kashmiris are branded as suspects and treated as threats to national security, simply because of their identity. These actions are part of a broader pattern of systemic discrimination that has been allowed to flourish unchecked. Pakistan continues to highlight these abuses, calling on the international community to hold India accountable for its actions. The world must recognize the growing intolerance in India and take action to protect the rights and dignity of Kashmiris and other marginalized minorities.