Intersectionality of Marginalization: A Study of Indian Muslims

Abstract

Marginalisation is the process by which particular communities or individuals are pushed to the perimeter of society, thereby reducing their options for political involvement, social interactions, and economic activities. This process is also known as marginalisation. The concept is convoluted and controversial, and it is frequently connected to the inequalities that marginalised groups are forced to contend with. Inequality and marginalisation commonly interact, and their mutual reinforcement is a common occurrence. Religious minorities, in particular, are susceptible to being excluded from activities, subjected to prejudice, and victimised. Within the context of the oppressed religious community that is the Indian Muslim population, these issues are intricately intertwined. In spite of the fact that there has been a recent uptick in attention paid to marginalisation, it is essential to investigate the historical evolution of this phenomena for communities who are marginalised. There is a considerable body of research suggesting that the marginalisation of minority groups is pervasive across society, and Indian Muslims are affected to varied degrees by this phenomenon. Scholars such as Imtiaz Ahmad and Zoya Hasan have made contributions to the ongoing conversation over the potential existence of a unique category sometimes referred to as "Dalit Muslims" within the social structure of Indian Muslims. It is important to note that many forms of marginalisation frequently overlap, which makes it more difficult to comprehend and effectively address the power dynamics that are currently in place. The purpose of this study is to analyse the systemic mechanisms that are responsible for the marginalisation of Muslims in India across a variety of facets of life. It sheds light on the pervasiveness of this marginalisation, which is maintained by historical and structural factors, policies implemented by the government, and socioeconomic disparities.