Table of Contents
India has always been celebrated for its incredible diversity — a land where people of all faiths, cultures, and backgrounds coexist and contribute to its vibrant identity. However, recent developments show a troubling trend where narrow-minded extremism is tearing apart the fabric of India’s unity.
The latest example comes from the controversy surrounding a social media influencer who made a simple, universally accepted statement: “Terrorism has no religion.” This was said in response to a tragic attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. Rather than receiving support for promoting peace and unity, the influencer was punished — the Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh tourism departments cut ties with him, bowing to communal pressures.
What Happened?
Following the Pahalgam attack, the influencer Tanya Mittal posted a video condemning the violence and emphasizing that terrorism should not be linked to any religion. Instead of appreciating the message of humanity and harmony, a section of society, fueled by communal hatred, began targeting him aggressively online.
Yielding to this manufactured outrage, the UP and MP tourism boards distanced all collaborations with the influencer, effectively boycotting him for promoting a message of unity.
This shocking move clearly shows how dangerous and narrow-minded extremism is being rewarded, while voices calling for peace and understanding are being silenced.
Please note that Ms. Tanya Mittal is not associated with MP Tourism in any capacity.
— Madhya Pradesh Tourism (@MPTourism) April 25, 2025
When Humanity Becomes a Crime
Instead of distinguishing between a few extremists and the larger peaceful communities they do not represent, certain groups choose to generalize entire religions, promoting hatred and division.
Today, if someone refuses to blame an entire community for the actions of a few, they are branded “anti-national” or “anti-religious.”
When did advocating for humanity become an offense in India?
Government Institutions Must Protect, Not Punish
It is deeply concerning that state tourism departments — government institutions — are bowing to extremist pressure. This sends a chilling message to citizens:
If you speak for unity, you will be punished.
If you promote peace, you will be silenced.
Such actions are dangerous for India’s democracy and social harmony. Instead of succumbing to hatred, authorities should be encouraging voices that stand for love, tolerance, and coexistence — the very values that built this nation.
Extremist Mentality Is India’s Real Enemy
History has proven that extremism from any side—Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian—only leads to destruction. The current situation, where a peaceful statement like “terrorism has no religion” can end a person’s professional relationships, is a stark warning sign.
If narrow-mindedness continues to dictate our national discourse, it won’t just harm individuals — it will fracture the soul of India itself.
Final Thoughts
India’s true strength lies in its unity in diversity. Those who punish people for standing by humanity are the ones who weaken this great nation.
We must remember: no religion teaches hatred, and no act of terror can define an entire community.
It is high time that Indians from all walks of life stand up against this dangerous trend of extremism — before it’s too late.
