The action of Devmani Sharma, a prominent figure within the BJP in Delhi, highlights the increasing targeting of the Muslim community in the country
NEW DELHI – In a disturbing incident that has sparked outrage across social media, a BJP leader in Delhi was filmed discriminating against two Muslim technicians based on their religion. The video, which has since gone viral, shows Devmani Sharma, a district co-coordinator of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), questioning the technicians about their religion and refusing service when he confirms they are Muslim. Sharma demands a Hindu technician in their place, an act that has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters.
The incident occurred when the two Muslim technicians arrived at the residence of Devmani Sharma to repair an air conditioning unit. The technicians, sent by the online service platform Urbanclap, were performing a routine job. However, upon their arrival, Sharma reportedly asked for their names and, upon learning that both were Muslim, ordered them to leave, stating, “I don’t want to get the work done from you. Send someone who is a Hindu.”
The two technicians, visibly disappointed and distressed, left the premises without performing the repair work. The incident was captured on camera, and the video quickly spread across social media, igniting widespread condemnation.
Devmani Sharma, a prominent figure within the BJP in Delhi, is facing intense scrutiny for his actions. As a district co-coordinator for the party, Sharma’s behaviour has raised questions about the party’s stance on religious discrimination, especially considering that the BJP is in power both in Delhi and at the national level. His actions have put a spotlight on the increasing targeting of the Muslim community in India, often based on religious identity.
Critics argue that the leader’s refusal to accept service from Muslim technicians is not only discriminatory but also a clear violation of the principles of equality and justice. A spokesperson for Urbanclap commented on the incident, stating, “We do not support any form of discrimination based on religion, and we are reviewing the situation.”
The video, showing the moment the technicians were turned away, has incited widespread anger on social media. Many users expressed shock and disappointment, calling for accountability and an end to such discriminatory practices. One user commented, “This is appalling. Discrimination based on religion should have no place in modern India.” Others have demanded action from the BJP, urging the party leadership to address the behaviour of their members.
This incident is not isolated. Over recent months, there has been an alarming rise in incidents where Muslims have faced violence or discrimination based on their religion. In a similar incident on April 28, a Muslim man named Rehan was assaulted at the Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi simply for being asked about his religion. Similarly, in Aligarh, a Muslim minor was subjected to public humiliation and violence by members of a Hindu group, forced to urinate on a Pakistani flag, and assaulted. These incidents, along with Sharma’s behaviour, have led to increasing concerns over the safety and rights of the Muslim community in India.
This recent incident reflects a worrying trend of religious polarisation in India, where members of the Muslim community increasingly face exclusion and discrimination in various aspects of life. The targeting of Muslims, whether in the form of violence or denial of service, has become more prevalent, particularly since the BJP came to power.
Experts argue that such incidents undermine the inclusive fabric of Indian society and raise serious questions about religious tolerance in the country. The actions of political figures like Devmani Sharma, they say, contribute to a climate of fear and suspicion, fostering division rather than unity.
In light of the incident, calls for action against BJP leader Devmani Sharma have intensified. Public figures and activists are demanding that the BJP take immediate steps to address the issue of religious discrimination within its ranks. “We cannot allow individuals in positions of power to perpetuate hatred and exclusion,” said a prominent social activist. “This is a clear example of how discrimination against Muslims is not just tolerated but sometimes even endorsed.”
As the video continues to circulate, the pressure on the BJP to act against Sharma is mounting. The incident has reignited the debate about the treatment of minorities in India and whether the current political environment is contributing to growing divisions within the country.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by India’s Muslim community in the face of increasing religious intolerance. It also highlights the need for stronger legal frameworks to protect individuals from discrimination based on their religious identity. As social media continues to amplify the voices of those demanding justice, it remains to be seen whether the BJP will take meaningful steps to address these concerns, or if such behaviour will continue unchecked.
The broader question remains: Can India, with its rich history of pluralism and diversity, overcome the rising tide of religious intolerance that threatens to undermine its social fabric?
