Contemporary Narratives Against Islam

By Dr. Zafar Darik Qasmi, New Age Islam 11 July 2025 This article explores the rise of anti-Islamic narratives, their roots in prejudice and politics, and urges thoughtful, united responses to preserve peace, dignity, and the cultural harmony of society. Main Points : 1. Islam is a natural, balanced system based on universal human dignity, harmony, and constructive values. 2. Anti-Islam narratives are deliberate, politically motivated, and spread through media to provoke hatred and division. 3. In India, Muslims are pushed into defence, draining youth energy and distracting from real national issues. 4. Strategic awareness, peace-based literature, and interfaith unity are essential to counter harmful ideological narratives today. ----- It is a fact that among all known systems in the world, the most balanced and just system is the one that aligns with nature. Such a system must provide a clear explanation of rights and responsibilities, and it must uphold human dignity and respect. It should also accept cultural diversity in society. Its principles of civilization, culture, and social life must be rooted in positive and constructive values. From this perspective, when we look globally, we find that Islam is the only system that, from the very beginning, has played a key role in eliminating divisions based on human values, geography, and social relations. Islam introduced a culture of human dignity and respect, fostering peace, harmony, and goodwill throughout the world. Importantly, the teachings Islam seeks to implement are universal and global in nature. These teachings have deep social, economic, cultural, and religious relevance. Just imagine a religion whose teachings promote humanity, unity, and harmony in society — such teachings hold a unique place in history. Islam has played a significant role in building peaceful and righteous societies. Its emphasis on good character and active support for the needy — without any discrimination of religion or community — are shining principles unmatched by any known civilization. What makes these teachings pure is the philosophy of balance and moderation at their core. The Real Problem: Prejudice and Misinformation: The tragedy of our times is that the current anti-Islamic attitudes are rooted in stubbornness, ignorance, prejudice, and narrow-mindedness. The narratives created against Islam are not random or accidental — they are well-planned and deliberate. These narratives serve specific hidden agendas, benefiting those powers that sponsor and promote them. It is crucial to understand these narratives and the hidden intentions behind them. Many of the global conspiracies and negative discussions about Muslims may seem small on the surface, but they have serious and harmful consequences. Today, electronic media, print media, and especially social media are being used to spread such content that provokes hatred against Islam and Muslims. Another important point is that specific psychological and emotional issues are raised deliberately. The liberal and modern-minded sections of society are especially influenced by these objections. Surprisingly, not just non-Muslims, but even some Muslims are falling under the influence of such misleading narratives. Many times, individuals from within the Muslim community themselves question Islamic teachings — not because of personal doubts, but because anti-Islamic propaganda has presented these teachings as harmful to society. The result is that Muslims are being pushed into a defensive position, unable to engage in constructive or intellectual efforts. Take India as an example: over the past several years, anti-Muslim and anti-Islam narratives have dominated the public discourse. Issues like Triple Talaq, Hijab, and polygamy have been deliberately brought forward. Muslims are forced to defend themselves, consuming all their intellectual and creative energy in responding to such issues. It is widely known that no one was genuinely troubled by issues like Triple Talaq or Hijab — yet these matters were promoted aggressively by the media for years. The aim was to create negative public opinion against Muslims and damage their historical reputation. These narratives do not benefit common Hindus or non-Muslims — rather, those in power benefit politically. Why? Because it diverts attention. The public stops questioning the government about issues like inflation, unemployment, and failed promises. From youth to elders, everyone is caught in the drama of Muslim opposition. This is a carefully designed trap to keep society distracted. Even educated youth today are deeply caught in it — they no longer worry about their future, nor do they understand the political game being played. Because if the youth wake up and become aware, they would begin demanding their rights. So, they are intentionally kept entangled in these distractions. The Urgent Need for Awareness Understanding anti-Islamic narratives in India is essential for protecting the nation’s rich heritage of Ganga-Jamuni culture and social harmony. Unfortunately, these narratives are often disguised in religious clothing. Religion is used emotionally — to provoke and manipulate people. Once people are emotionally charged in the name of religion, they can be easily used for political gains. Today, the increasing intensity of anti-Islamic attitudes and their discouraging results are genuinely concerning for every sensitive and aware individual. Therefore, to counter these dangerous narratives, we need to work together beyond religious boundaries. Positive efforts are already happening — but they must expand significantly. Wisdom demands that we minimize the impact of these narratives on society. The best way to do this is by promoting literature based on love, peace, and harmony. At the same time, we must understand the different ideologies and mindsets in our society, so we can respond to such harmful narratives with awareness and depth. Just as the negative elements are working in a planned and organized way, we too must respond with strategic and thoughtful efforts. Because this issue is extremely sensitive and serious, its defence must also be handled with care, responsibility, and wisdom. Only then can we play a meaningful role in protecting shared values and preserving cultural diversity. Conclusion We must always remember: any movement or ideology that clashes with Islamic principles has always eventually faded away. So, the current wave of anti-Islamic narratives will also disappear with time. However, we must not run from them or be discouraged by them. The lives and experiences of all Prophets (peace be upon them) show that they faced similar opposition in their times — and they stood firm against all misleading narratives and negative trends. Let us follow their example and face today's challenges with strength, clarity, and faith. URl: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-society/contemporary-narratives-islam/d/136142 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism