Modi Sarkar and the Muslim Community: A Narrative of Empowerment and Inclusion"

While political narratives often frame the relationship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government and the Muslim community through the lens of skepticism, there exists a quieter, powerful counter-narrative—one of policy-driven inclusion, economic empowerment, and grassroots-level appreciation from within the Muslim community itself.

PM Modi was on a 45-hour meditation journey in Tamil Nadu's Kanniyakumari. NDTV

Inclusive Schemes That Benefit All Indians, Including Muslims

The Modi government has consistently emphasized “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas”—a commitment to inclusive development. Many government initiatives have delivered tangible benefits to India’s 200-million-strong Muslim population:

1. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)

Under this flagship housing scheme, over 31% of beneficiaries are from minority communities, including a significant number of Muslims. The central government has built over 3 crore homes, giving dignity and security to families regardless of religion.

2. Mudra Yojana (Microfinance Scheme)

Many Muslims, particularly from economically backward sections, have accessed microloans under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, enabling them to start businesses or expand small shops. In Uttar Pradesh alone, a large percentage of Muslim women entrepreneurs have reported availing benefits from this program.

3. Minority Scholarship Schemes

Scholarships under Pre-Matric, Post-Matric, and Merit-cum-Means categories continue to benefit lakhs of Muslim students annually. Between 2014 and 2022, over 3 crore scholarships were distributed to minorities—over 70% went to Muslims, improving literacy and higher education access.

4. Skill India & Hunar Haat

Initiatives like Hunar Haat, launched by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, have empowered thousands of Muslim artisans and craftsmen by offering a platform to exhibit and sell traditional goods. These events have created lakhs of jobs and revived declining traditional industries.

Muslim Leaders Who Have Publicly Praised Modi

While mainstream media often overlooks such statements, several Muslim leaders and community influencers have openly appreciated Modi’s initiatives:

1. Dr. Zafar Sareshwala (Businessman & Former Chancellor, Maulana Azad National Urdu University)

Dr. Sareshwala, once a vocal critic, became a strong supporter of Modi post-2014. He has frequently lauded the PM for promoting education and economic empowerment among Muslims.

“Modi’s government is focused on uplifting the poor, and a majority of them happen to be Muslims. His focus on education and entrepreneurship is showing real change.” – Zafar Sareshwala

2. Shahnawaz Hussain (Senior BJP Leader & Former Minister)

A prominent Muslim face in the BJP, Hussain has repeatedly stated that no government has done as much for Muslims without appeasement politics.

“Modi-ji believes in empowering Muslims with dignity—not with slogans but with actual schemes that touch lives.” – Shahnawaz Hussain

3. Syed Salman Chishti (Ajmer Dargah Committee Head)

A revered Sufi leader, Chishti has often praised Modi for promoting interfaith harmony and respecting India’s spiritual diversity.

“PM Modi respects all religions. His policies for upliftment are universal—this is true secularism.” – Salman Chishti

The Changing Narrative on the Ground

In states like Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Telangana, anecdotal evidence and field reports show an increasing number of Muslims participating in BJP-led development programs. Several young Muslim professionals and women entrepreneurs have become vocal about how government schemes enabled them to transform their lives.

In 2023, a viral video from Uttar Pradesh featured a group of Muslim women praising Modi for giving them gas cylinders under Ujjwala Yojana, scholarships for their daughters, and housing support. “We vote for work, and Modi has given us work,” one woman declared on camera.

Beyond Politics: A Policy of Empowerment

What differentiates the Modi administration is its focus on delivery rather than identity politics. Unlike earlier models of tokenism or vote-bank politics, the Modi-led BJP has emphasized empowering minorities through access to education, entrepreneurship, and basic services.

Despite ideological differences, the facts point toward a government that is actively working to uplift all underprivileged communities—including Muslims—through inclusive and accountable governance.

Conclusion

In an increasingly polarized discourse, it is vital to highlight ground realities and authentic voices. Muslims in India are not a monolith—and many within the community are beginning to recognize and appreciate how Modi’s governance model is delivering results without appeasement.

As the nation moves forward, constructive dialogue backed by policy impact must take center stage—bridging gaps with empowerment, not division.

(Sources: Indian Express, PTI, Economic Times)