Hindus of Conscience Condemn Ram Navami Violence - Take A Stand Against Hate

The anti-Muslim violence that has taken place during Ram Navami for the second year in a row is heartbreaking to witness. Religious festivals have become a catalyst for communal violence spurred by Hindu nationalists, to assert their power over Muslim communities, with impunity. As Hindus of conscience in India and abroad, we must condemn this violence and resist the hate that is being spread in the name of Hinduism. It is our responsibility to call out this violence and speak out against the Hindu nationalist agenda in India that has empowered Hindus to attack Muslims and other minority communities. We also offer our solidarity to the Palestinians facing similar violence by Israeli police in Jerusalem during Ramadan, and to our Jewish siblings who must similarly confront the weaponization of their faith for religious nationalist motives. This pattern of communal violence during holy times must end - we cannot continue with the status quo.

In response, we have signed onto this letter circulating by Hindus of conscience in India, condemning the violence and holding strong that Indian Hindus say "NO" to Hate in the name of Hinduism. We have also released a video with Swami Raghavendra ji of Ram Janaki Ashram in Muzaffarpur, Bihar condemning the recent Ram Navami violence that erupted in several states in India. On Ram Navami, we worship Rama, one who cares for all, and wants justice for all — along with Sita, for there is no Ram without Sita. We must act with the honor and righteousness of Lord Rama, stand for justice, and therefore speak out against the violence taking place in his name. 

We further invite our fellow Hindus and non-Hindus alike to raise your voice, sign the letter, share our video and join Hindus for Human Rights as we work to combat Hindu nationalism, and all religious nationalisms, and support the rights of religious minority and caste oppressed communities in India.

-Hindus for Human Rights