Muslims feel housing discrimination in India

24 April 2009

The attacks in Mumbai this past November renewed Hindu distrust of Muslims, and now even secular believers are experiencing new levels of discrimination. Although India strives to be a democratic example for Asia, religious tensions between the Hindu majority and other minority religious communities continue to tarnish its image.  150 million Muslims are struggling with discrimination, especially related to finding adequate housing. Today, this issue of marginalization is known as "renting while Muslim." Activists are trying to expose the problems that force many Muslims to live within a limited area around neighborhood mosques.   From Bollywood's richest stars in Mumbai, to college students in Uttar Pradesh, many Indians have been unable to find housing due to their religious affiliation.  Muslims are frustrated that this type of discrimination continues in modern India, and they feel required to repeatedly prove their loyalty to the country they love.  Many Indians hope that upcoming elections will address discrimination issues that affect 14% of the population.  For more information, see this Washington Post Article.

Please pray for the religious minorities in India; both Christian and Muslim, as they seek equal rights. Pray for understanding and reconciliation between religious communities in all parts of India that can bring an end to discrimination. Ask that God increases the awareness and compassion of the Indian government, so that they can effectively address issues of religious freedom for all its citizens. 

Last updated 24 April 2009