New Delhi: Renowned journalist Rajdeep Sardesai delivered a thought-provoking speech at the 21st edition of the India Today Conclave 2024 in New Delhi, addressing critical issues surrounding representation and inclusivity in Indian politics. Sardesai’s remarks centered on the concerning lack of Muslim representation in the country’s parliament and the implications of this trend for India’s diverse population.
During his address, Sardesai highlighted the slogan “Ab ki baar 400 paar, 350 paar,” which has become synonymous with the aspirations of BJP to secure a significant majority in parliament. However, he pointed out that despite these ambitions, the current government lacks a single Muslim Member of Parliament (MP). Moreover, Sardesai expressed concern that the projected outcome of 350 or 400 MPs from the ruling party might also exclude representation from the Muslim community, which constitutes approximately 13% of India’s population.
Drawing attention to the marginalization of Muslims in various spheres of society, Sardesai spoke candidly about the systematic invisibilization of the Muslim community. He cited examples from his own affluent neighborhood, where he observed a decline in the number of Muslim residents. Sardesai attributed this phenomenon to deep-rooted prejudices and stereotypes that have permeated Indian society, perpetuating a culture of exclusion and marginalization.
He said, “Just think about it. We are talking about ‘Ab ki baar 400 paar, 350 paar.’ This government at the moment in parliament doesn’t have a single Muslim MP. This 350 or 400 paar is also probably not going to have a single Muslim MP. 13% of your population in a way is being invisibilized. I don’t want to say it in this room also but I know in my own colony, which is an affluent and upmarket colony, how many Muslims live there today? There is a systematic invisibilizing of the Muslims.”
While acknowledging that he was not singling out any individual for blame, Sardesai emphasized the urgent need for introspection within the media fraternity. He challenged media professionals to reflect on their role in perpetuating stereotypes and contributing to the proliferation of hate politics targeting marginalized communities.
“I am not blaming an individual for it but this is the nature of it. An indoctrination has set in and I think since we are in a media conclave, we in the media should also look inside. How much have we done to spread these kinds of stereotypes, prejudice and the worst kind of hate politics that targets people because of the community they belong to? Nothing can be more dangerous for India in the future, the country with the third-largest Muslim population if the party in power with 400 MPs can not throw up a single Muslim MP or cannot actually actively promote a sense of genuine cooperation between communities. Don’t blame anyone and we in the media need to look inward.” He added.
The video clip of Sardesai’s speech quickly gained traction on social media platforms, with many users applauding his courage in addressing sensitive issues and advocating for greater inclusivity and representation in Indian politics. Several users also pointed out how the cameraman had done a commendable job by bringing Sudhir Chaudhary on screen while Sardesai was questioning the role media has played in spreading these kinds of stereotypes, prejudice and the worst kind of hate politics that targets people because of the community they belong to.
