Muslim World Report

Racism on Mumbai Trains: A Call for Societal Reflection

Dr. Anthony Lindsay | Apr 8, 2025 9:49 AM | 7 min read | 1323 words

TL;DR: A recent incident on a Mumbai train highlights entrenched racism and xenophobia in India, reflecting broader societal issues. The need for societal change, government action, and grassroots movements is critical to confronting discrimination and fostering inclusivity.

Confronting Racism on Mumbai’s Local Trains: A Reflection on Societal Decay

The recent incident on a crowded train in Mumbai serves as a poignant reminder of the deeply entrenched racism and xenophobia that pervades Indian society. A local resident, striving to assist a fellow passenger, was instead met with hostility and derogatory remarks. This alarming reality highlights the silent suffering endured by many in a society increasingly polarized amid rising nationalism and divisive politics.

Key points to consider:

  • Such experiences are symptomatic of broader systemic issues.
  • The incident illustrates the heightened polarization fueled by political rhetoric (Sampson, 2009; Inglehart & Norris, 2016).
  • Hostility towards individuals attempting to bridge divides reveals fractures within society (Ladson-Billings, 1995).

The implications of this incident extend far beyond the confines of a single train compartment. It serves as a microcosm of societal behaviors that reflect a moral decline. The reactions of bystanders—who chose to align themselves with the aggressor rather than offer support—speak volumes about the communal dynamics governing public spaces in contemporary India. Such behaviors are not merely reflections of personal prejudice; they are manifestations of a systemic issue that discourages victims from speaking out, perpetuating cycles of silence and suffering (Bailey, Feldman, & Bassett, 2020).

This silence is exacerbated by the daily frustrations inherent in life within a bustling metropolis like Mumbai, where economic disparity often fuels aggression. Marginalized communities, particularly those from states like Uttar Pradesh, find themselves disproportionately affected by regional prejudices (Todd, 2016). Here, the interplay of structural racism—rooted in historical injustices and perpetuated through institutional frameworks—becomes evident. Studies highlight how racism operates not merely through individual prejudices but as a construct deeply embedded within social policy and cultural norms (Gillborn, 2005; Dordunoo et al., 2022).

As one of the world’s most populous democracies navigates its values in an increasingly interconnected global context, how it addresses these tensions will significantly impact its internal harmony and its international image as a nation committed to human rights and dignity for all its citizens (Yosso et al., 2009). The ongoing normalization of prejudices can lead to further entrenchment of societal divides, heightening discrimination against marginalized communities and fostering an environment of fear and mistrust (Emami & de Castro, 2021).

What if the Government Takes Action Against Hate Speech?

If the government actively combats hate speech and racism in public spaces, it could catalyze a significant cultural shift.

Potential outcomes:

  • Legislative measures that penalize discrimination might foster an environment of dialogue and understanding.
  • More inclusive public spaces could coalesce diverse communities around shared values of respect and equality.

However, the risks of selective enforcement cannot be ignored. If the government chooses to act, it must do so transparently and with a genuine commitment to inclusivity, necessitating a robust framework for accountability.

What if Public Sentiment Continues to Shift Towards Xenophobia?

Conversely, if public sentiment skews towards xenophobia and regionalism, India could see a further entrenchment of social divides.

Possible ramifications:

  • Increased discrimination against marginalized communities.
  • More incidents of racism and violence in public spaces.
  • Alienation of marginalized communities, leading to a culture of fear and mistrust.

The aggregation of resentment may lead to broader unrest, impacting India’s global standing and its social contracts.

What if Grassroots Movements Rise in Response to Discrimination?

If grassroots movements gain momentum in response to discrimination, India could witness a powerful shift towards social justice.

Possible benefits:

  • Community-led initiatives focused on education, awareness, and mutual support could dismantle barriers of prejudice.
  • Digital platforms and social media could amplify these initiatives, creating networks that transcend geographical boundaries.

However, the effectiveness of these grassroots responses would depend on their ability to forge alliances across diverse social and economic strata, ensuring that the specific needs of various marginalized groups are addressed.

Strategic Maneuvers for Change

To address these challenges, all stakeholders—including government institutions, civil society, and community members—must engage in concerted efforts to confront racism and xenophobia.

Governmental Actions

  • Comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation aimed at penalizing hate speech and fostering civic education on diversity and inclusion (Inwood & Alderman, 2016).
  • Curricula in public education must integrate teachings on empathy, cultural sensitivity, and the celebration of India’s diverse identities (Collins, 1998).
  • Establishing independent oversight committees to monitor discrimination and recommend policy changes.

Role of Civil Society Organizations

Civil society organizations are critical in facilitating dialogues that can bridge divides and encourage solidarity among diverse groups.

Engagement strategies:

  • Initiatives focused on education and mutual support can help dismantle barriers of prejudice (Hogan, 2007).
  • Workshops, seminars, and community dialogues can create collective understanding, fostering a culture of solidarity.

Empowering Communities

Community members must mobilize to challenge discriminatory behavior, fostering a culture of solidarity where individuals feel empowered to speak out against racism.

Effective initiatives may include:

  • Community workshops and inter-community dialogues to foster understanding.
  • Online campaigns and social media advocacy that can galvanize public sentiment against prejudice.

The Broader Context of Structural Racism

The interplay of structural racism is a critical factor in understanding the dynamics of discrimination within Indian society.

  • Research indicates that racism operates not merely through individual prejudices but is deeply embedded within social policy (Gillborn, 2005).
  • Educational inequities continue to shape the experiences of marginalized communities, perpetuating cycles of poverty.
  • Socio-economic disparities exacerbate challenges faced by marginalized communities in urban centers like Mumbai.

Addressing these systemic issues requires a concerted effort to dismantle barriers and create a more equitable society.

Implications for International Relations

India’s response to internal racism and xenophobia will significantly impact its international relations.

  • The international community is increasingly vigilant regarding human rights issues, and India’s reputation as a democracy hinges on its ability to address these internal challenges.
  • Discrimination and violence can tarnish India’s image abroad, affecting foreign relations and economic partnerships.

As global interconnectedness increases, India’s domestic policies will be scrutinized. Its response to internal challenges will play a critical role in shaping its global standing.

Conclusionary Thoughts on a Complex Issue

While the incident on Mumbai’s local trains starkly illustrates the moral and social decay manifesting in everyday interactions, it also serves as a call to action. A multifaceted approach prioritizing education, solidarity, and systemic change is essential for confronting racism in Indian society. By addressing these issues head-on, India can work towards redefining coexistence in its richly diverse landscape, reinforcing the belief that empathy and understanding are vital in the face of division.

References

  • Bailey, Z., Feldman, J. M., & Bassett, M. T. (2020). How structural racism works—Racist policies as a root cause of U.S. racial health inequities. New England Journal of Medicine, 383(3), 247-250.
  • Dordunoo, D., Abernethy, P., Kayuni, J., McConkey, S., & Aviles-G, M. L. (2022). Dismantling “race” in health research. Canadian Journal of Nursing Research, 54(3), 203-217.
  • Emami, A., & de Castro, B. (2021). Confronting racism in nursing. Nursing Outlook, 69(5), 978-986.
  • Gillborn, D. (2005). Education policy as an act of white supremacy: Whiteness, critical race theory and education reform. Journal of Education Policy, 20(4), 493-504.
  • Hogan, W. (2007). Many minds, one heart: SNCC’s dream for a new America. Choice Reviews Online.
  • Inwood, J., & Alderman, D. H. (2016). Taking down the flag is just a start: Toward the memory-work of racial reconciliation in white supremacist America. Southeastern Geographer, 56(4), 357-372.
  • Ladson-Billings, G. (1995). Toward a theory of culturally relevant pedagogy. American Educational Research Journal, 32(3), 465-491.
  • Schlosberg, D., & Collins, L. B. (2014). From environmental to climate justice: Climate change and the discourse of environmental justice. Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews: Climate Change, 5(3), 359-374.
  • Todd, Z. (2016). An Indigenous feminist’s take on the ontological turn: ‘Ontology’ is just another word for colonialism. Journal of Historical Sociology, 29(3), 343-357.
  • Yosso, T. J., Smith, W. A., Ceja, M., & Solórzano, D. G. (2009). Critical race theory, racial microaggressions, and campus racial climate for Latina/o undergraduates. Harvard Educational Review, 79(4), 659-690.
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