Terrorist Attacks Against Kashmiri Pilgrims Defies Islamic Principles: Islam Unconditionally Protects non-Muslim places of Worship

By Grace Mubashir, New Age Islam 21 June 2024 The Recent Attack In Reasi, Jammu, And Kashmir, Has Set Alarm Bells Ringing, Highlighting The Persistent Threat Of Terrorism In The Region. Ulema Must Come Together And Explain How Islam Protects Non-Muslim Places Of Worship And What These Terrorists Did Was Against InjunctionsofIslam. Main Points: 1. On June 9th, 2024, a horrific attack shattered the peace in Jammu and Kashmir. Suspected militants opened fire on a bus carrying pilgrims to the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine in Katra 2. History reveals a disturbing pattern of violence targeting pilgrims during the Amarnath Yatra, a holy pilgrimage for Hindus undertaken in the southern part of Kashmir 3. Experts point towards a concerning shift in terrorist tactics in Kashmir 4. Like many religions, Islam emphasises the sanctity of all places of worship. Historical examples abound, showcasing how Muslim rulers protected non-Muslim religious sites ------ The idyllic beauty of Kashmir, nestled amidst the Himalayas, has long been a haven for spiritual seekers. However, recent terror attacks targeting pilgrims on their journey to revered shrines have cast a dark shadow over this region. This surge in violence raises critical questions about security lapses, the evolving nature of terrorism in Kashmir, and the ongoing impact on religious freedom. Terrorist attacks targeting pilgrims in Kashmir have become a significant concern for India's security establishment. These attacks not only threaten the safety of innocent civilians but also aim to destabilise the region and incite communal tensions. The recent attack in Reasi, Jammu, and Kashmir, has set alarm bells ringing, highlighting the persistent threat of terrorism in the region. This article delves into the nature of these attacks, their historical context, and the broader implications for security and communal harmony in India. The bus which plunged into a gorge following a terrorist attack on pilgrims, in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir on June 11, 2024. | Photo Credit: PTI ----- A Brutal Assault: The Reasi Bus Attack On June 9th, 2024, a horrific attack shattered the peace in Jammu and Kashmir. Suspected militants opened fire on a bus carrying pilgrims to the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine in Katra. The driver, in a desperate attempt to escape the assault, lost control of the vehicle, sending it plummeting into a deep gorge. This senseless act claimed the lives of nine innocent pilgrims and injured dozens more. The attack marked a chilling escalation, targeting not just security forces but unarmed civilians undertaking a sacred pilgrimage. Recognising the gravity of the situation, India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the probe into the Reasi bus attack. This move underscores the government's commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice and ensuring a thorough investigation. However, the long road to justice requires not only swift action against the attackers but also a deeper understanding of the root causes fuelling terrorism in the region. A Pattern of Violence: Targeting the Amarnath Yatra This attack wasn't an isolated incident. History reveals a disturbing pattern of violence targeting pilgrims during the Amarnath Yatra, a holy pilgrimage for Hindus undertaken in the southern part of Kashmir. In 2017, eight pilgrims were killed and many injured when militants attacked a bus returning from the Amarnath Cave Temple. These repeated attacks highlight the vulnerability of pilgrims and raise concerns about the effectiveness of security measures during religious festivals. Terrorist attacks on pilgrims in Kashmir are not a new phenomenon. Over the years, there have been several incidents where terrorists have targeted pilgrims, especially during the Amarnath Yatra, a significant annual pilgrimage undertaken by thousands of Hindus. One of the deadliest attacks occurred in 2000, when terrorists ambushed a group of Amarnath pilgrims, killing 30 people. Similar attacks in subsequent years have claimed numerous lives, instilling fear and uncertainty among potential pilgrims. The Amarnath Yatra, a pilgrimage to the holy Amarnath cave, has been a recurrent target for terrorists. In 2017, a terrorist attack on a bus carrying pilgrims resulted in the death of seven devotees and left many injured. This incident, among others, underscores the persistent threat that pilgrims face while embarking on their spiritual journey. The security forces have continuously been on high alert during the pilgrimage season, but the unpredictability of terrorist attacks makes ensuring absolute safety a formidable challenge. Beyond Security Concerns: Evolving Terror Tactics Experts point towards a concerning shift in terrorist tactics in Kashmir. Traditionally, attacks focused on security forces and government installations. However, the recent targeting of pilgrims signifies a deliberate attempt to stoke religious tensions and disrupt the fragile peace in the region. This calculated strategy aims to exploit the emotional vulnerability of pilgrims and create an atmosphere of fear and insecurity. In response to these threats, the Indian government has implemented stringent security measures to protect pilgrims. These include increased deployment of security personnel, surveillance, and intelligence operations. Despite these efforts, the rugged terrain and the vast expanse of the pilgrimage routes pose significant challenges. Ensuring the safety of thousands of pilgrims in such a volatile environment requires comprehensive and adaptive strategies. The Role of Local Communities Local communities in Kashmir, particularly the Muslim population, have played a crucial role in protecting pilgrims and maintaining communal harmony. Historically, there have been numerous instances where local Muslims have come to the aid of Hindu pilgrims, providing shelter and support during times of crisis. This solidarity is a testament to the deep-rooted coexistence and mutual respect traditions that have defined Kashmir's social fabric for centuries. Terrorist attacks targeting pilgrims not only result in tragic loss of life but also threaten to erode the communal harmony that is vital for the region's stability. These attacks are often aimed at fomenting discord between different religious communities, creating an atmosphere of fear and mistrust. The government, security forces and civil society must work together to counter these divisive tactics and promote unity and understanding among all communities. A Historical Commitment: Protecting Places of Worship Across Religions Like many religions, Islam emphasises the sanctity of all places of worship. Historical examples abound, showcasing how Muslim rulers protected non-Muslim religious sites. The Pact of Umar, a historic agreement attributed to the second Caliph, guaranteed the safety and security of Christian and Jewish communities and their places of worship in Jerusalem. Similarly, the Prophet Muhammad himself is said to have ensured the safety of a nearby Christian church during the conquest of Mecca. These examples stand as testaments to Islam's core principle of respecting the religious practices of others. Islamic teachings emphasize the protection of non-Muslim religious sites and the rights of non-Muslims to practice their faith freely. The Quran and Hadith contain numerous references advocating for the safety and respect of places of worship, regardless of religious affiliation. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) explicitly instructed Muslims to protect churches, synagogues, and temples. Historical precedents, such as the actions of Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab, who ensured the safety of Christian sites upon entering Jerusalem, highlight the commitment of early Islamic leaders to these principles. Islam fundamentally guarantees the protection of non-Muslims, including their places of worship. This principle is deeply rooted in Islamic teachings, ensuring that Jews, Christians, and other non-Muslim communities residing in Muslim lands have their religious freedoms safeguarded. The Quran explicitly mentions the protection of monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques where the name of Allah is often invoked, highlighting the importance of preserving these sacred sites (Quran 22:40). Prominent Islamic scholars, such as Hasan Al-Basri and Ibn Khuwaiz, have reiterated this by stating that Muslims are duty-bound to defend the worship places of non-Muslims. Allah said: وَلَوْلَا دَفْعُ اللَّهِ النَّاسَ بَعْضَهُم بِبَعْضٍ لَّهُدِّمَتْ صَوَامِعُ وَبِيَعٌ وَصَلَوَاتٌ وَمَسَاجِدُ يُذْكَرُ فِيهَا اسْمُ اللَّهِ كَثِيرًا Were Allah not to check people by means of others, there would have been demolished the monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques in which the name of Allah is often mentioned. Surat Al-Hajj 22:40 Hasan Al-Basri comments on this verse, saying: يُدْفَعُ عَنْ هَدْمِ مُصَلَّيَاتِ أَهْلِ الذِّمَّةِ بِالْمُؤْمِنِينَ The houses of worship for non-Muslim citizens are defended by the believers. Source: Ahkam Al-Quran Al-Jassas 5/83 Al-Qurtubi comments on this verse, saying: قَالَ ابْنُ خُوَيْزِ مَنْدَادَ تَضَمَّنَتْ هَذِهِ الْآيَةُ الْمَنْعَ مِنْ هَدْمِ كَنَائِسِ أَهْلِ الذِّمَّةِ وَبِيَعِهِمْ وَبُيُوتِ نِيرَانِهِمْ Ibn Khuwaiz said: Included in this verse is the prohibition of demolishing the churches of non-Muslim citizens, their temples, and their houses of worship. Source: Tafseer Al-Qurtubi 22:40 This legal requirement is part of the tolerance, compassion, and goodwill that Islam teaches concerning other religious groups. The Prophet defined Islam as safety and security for people in general. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) exemplified this protection by defining Islam as a source of safety for all people, emphasizing that those who are safe from a Muslim’s hand and tongue embody the best form of Islam. This principle extends beyond mere tolerance; it encompasses active protection and respect for the religious practices of others. Renowned commentators like Ibn Kathir and At-Tabari interpreted the Quranic verses to mean that the name of Allah is mentioned in synagogues, churches, and mosques, warranting their protection. Historically, Islamic leaders have upheld these values. Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab, for example, provided comprehensive protection to the Christian inhabitants of Jerusalem, ensuring their churches and religious practices were safeguarded following the Muslim conquest. Umar’s covenant with the Christians explicitly promised safety for their lives, property, and spiritual symbols, demonstrating a commitment to justice and religious freedom. This covenant is a historical testament to the Islamic principle of protecting non-Muslim houses of worship. Even if the name of Allah were not mentioned in non-Muslim worship places, Islamic law still mandates their protection. Islamic jurist Ibn Al-Qayyim emphasised that Allah loves to defend these places, regardless of the nature of worship conducted therein. The overarching rule in Islam is that peaceful and law-abiding non-Muslims enjoy the same rights as Muslims, including the protection of their religious sites. This principle of protection is not limited to historical instances but is a continuous obligation. The Prophet Muhammad warned that any Muslim who wrongs a non-Muslim protected by a covenant would face his advocacy against them on the Day of Judgment. This underscores the seriousness with which Islam regards the protection of non-Muslims and their religious freedoms. Caliph Umar’s refusal to pray inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre further illustrates his sensitivity to the rights of non-Muslims. By praying outside, he aimed to prevent any future claims by Muslims that could jeopardise the church’s sanctity. This act of foresight ensured that the church remained a place of Christian worship, which it continues to be to this day. The recent attacks in Kashmir stand in stark contrast to these historical precedents. They not only violate the sanctity of pilgrimage but also undermine the peaceful coexistence that has long been a hallmark of Kashmiri society. Moving Forward: Securing the Future of Religious Freedom The future of religious freedom in Kashmir hinges on a multi-pronged approach. Robust security measures are crucial to safeguard pilgrims and deter future attacks. However, long-term solutions require addressing the root causes of discontent and fostering dialogue between communities. Open communication, interfaith collaboration, and a commitment to justice are fundamental for ensuring the safety and security of all religious communities in Kashmir. Only then can the echoes of violence be silenced, allowing the sacred chants of pilgrims to once again resonate through the valleys of this magnificent region. The Indian government's response to the Reasi attack has been swift and decisive. The Ministry of Home Affairs has handed over the investigation to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), ensuring a thorough and impartial probe. This move is aimed at bringing the perpetrators to justice and preventing future attacks. Additionally, the government is exploring new technologies and intelligence-gathering methods to enhance security measures and pre-empt potential threats. The terrorist attacks on pilgrims in Kashmir represent a grave threat to both individual safety and communal harmony. The recent Reasi attack serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by terrorism in the region. However, the resilience of local communities, combined with robust security measures and adherence to Islamic principles of protecting non-Muslim worship sites, provides hope for a future where such atrocities can be prevented. All stakeholders must remain vigilant, foster unity, and continue working towards a peaceful and secure Kashmir. ----- A regular columnist for NewAgeIslam.com, Mubashir V.P is a PhD scholar in Islamic Studies at Jamia Millia Islamia and freelance journalist. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/radical-islamism-jihad/terrorist-attacks-kashmiri-pilgrims-islamic-principlesnon-muslim-worship/d/132546 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