Indian Muslims and democracy: Navigating challenges and opportunities

By Adam Rizvi*

Syed Ali Mujtaba's new book Indian Muslims’ Tryst with Democracy presents a detailed exploration of the socio-political challenges faced by Indian Muslims within the country’s democratic framework. The book examines their position, responses, and strategies for navigating contemporary political and societal dynamics.

The historical discussion includes Mohammad Ali Jinnah, who argued that Muslims would face challenges in a democratic system with a Hindu majority. From independence to the present, the book analyzes Indian Muslims’ engagement with democracy, their struggles, and their evolving responses within the constitutional framework.

The book evaluates Muslims' approach to democratic, constitutional, and judicial institutions, suggesting pathways for collective progress while ensuring dignity and equality. Despite contemporary communal divisions, Mujtaba explores the significance of a structured democratic response, examining various strategies and their effectiveness.

The book emphasizes political participation through electoral alliances, increased representation in Parliament and State Assemblies, and educational advancement to strengthen governance and administration. Grassroots engagement and merit-based professional qualifications are highlighted as essential elements for effective representation.

Indian Muslims’ Tryst with Democracy provides valuable insights into the socio-political landscape of Indian Muslims. It is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the challenges faced by the community and exploring constructive solutions for democratic participation.

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*Editor, The Indian Observer, based in New York. See http://mujtabas-musings.blogspot.com/. Book available at Atlantic Publishers & Distributors Pvt. Ltd., aparna@atlanticbooks.com

Neville Cardus: The man who turned cricket writing into poetry

By Harsh Thakor* Neville Cardus was one of the most remarkable literary figures of the twentieth century. A prolific English writer and critic, he achieved distinction in two vastly different fields: cricket and classical music. Entirely self-taught, Cardus rose from humble beginnings to become both the cricket correspondent and chief music critic of The Manchester Guardian . His achievements in these contrasting disciplines earned him widespread acclaim and established him as one of the foremost critics of his generation. In February 2025, the cricketing and literary world marked the fiftieth anniversary of his death, which occurred in February 1975.

Ideological shifts and structural realities within India's left-wing insurgency

By Harsh Thakor* The Maoist insurgency in India is arguably at its weakest point since the formation of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) in 2004. Years of sustained counterinsurgency operations, leadership losses, shrinking territorial influence, declining recruitment, and growing technological advantages enjoyed by the state have significantly eroded the movement's operational capabilities.

Garba on the tarmac and other lessons in tourist arrogance

By Vidya Bhushan Rawat A video of a group of Indian tourists, reportedly from Gujarat, performing Garba on the airport tarmac in Vietnam has gone viral on social media. The group, consisting of men and women, was seen dancing in front of their aircraft, making considerable noise, ignoring instructions from airport staff, and disrupting the boarding process for other passengers. The incident triggered widespread criticism online. Many viewers expressed outrage and began recalling similar episodes in which Indian tourists have displayed a disregard for local norms, civic behaviour, and public etiquette while travelling abroad.

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