The Role of Shiv Sena in Protecting Hindus During the 1992-93 Bombay Riots

India is a diverse and vibrant nation, home to numerous communities and ethnicities. The 1992-1993 Bombay riots marked a period of significant tension, particularly between Hindus and Muslims in Mumbai, forcing many movements and political parties to step up in defense of their communities. Shiv Sena, initially a Marathi nationalist organization, played a crucial role during these riots, advocating for the protection and safety of Hindus in the region.

Background and Context

Shiv Sena was founded in the 1960s as a political and social movement in Mumbai, primarily to protect and promote the interests of native Marathi-speaking people. Over the years, the organization evolved, incorporating elements of Hindu nationalism, which contributed to its growing influence. By the 1990s, Shiv Sena had managed to gain a significant foothold in the region, with control over several local government bodies including the BMC and BEST.

The 1992-1993 Bombay Riots: An Overview

The Bombay riots of 1992-1993 were rooted in deep-seated socio-economic and political tensions. The communal violence began after the destruction of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya, which disrupted the religious harmony and sparked riots across India, including Mumbai. The riots in Mumbai were particularly intense, with significant property damage, loss of lives, and widespread fear among the Hindu population.

Shiv Sena's Response and Role

During the 1992-1993 Bombay riots, Shiv Sena took a proactive stance in protecting Hindus in Mumbai. The organization utilized its influence over the local police and administrative bodies to coordinate relief and security efforts. Shiv Sena's actions can be understood through the lens of their commitment to Marathi nationalism and their desire to promote Hindu interests.

Efforts by Shiv Sena included:

Providing security: Ensuring the safety of Hindu communities by organizing volunteer groups and maintaining vigilance through its cadres. Organizing relief: Setting up relief camps and distributing essential supplies to affected families. Communicating with the government: Engaging with local and national authorities to address the concerns of Hindus and seek immediate action. Encouraging a sense of unity: Mobilizing support and resources to uplift the morale of the Hindu community.

Challenges and Controversies

The actions of Shiv Sena during the 1992-1993 Bombay riots were not without controversy. Critics, including the original post author, argue that the organization's role is exaggerated and that economic changes in Mumbai have led to a decrease in the influence of Marathi-speaking people. They point out several statistics, including the declining percentage of Maharashtrians in Mumbai and the increasing presence of non-Maharashtrian businesses and government employees.

Some of the key points of contention include:

Demographic changes: According to various sources, the number of Maharashtrians in Mumbai has reduced from 80% in the 1970s to around 35% today. Job market: The percentage of non-Maharashtrians in jobs such as those in BMC, BEST, and the railway and banking sectors has increased significantly. Auto-rickshaw and taxi ownership: Non-Maharashtrians now dominate the auto-rickshaw and taxi sectors, while Uber and Ola have also contributed to this trend. Employment and economic opportunities: Marathi people are now predominantly employed in domestic services rather than professional or managerial positions.

These arguments highlight the complex socio-economic landscape of Mumbai and how the region has evolved over the decades. Despite these criticisms, the role of Shiv Sena in protecting Hindu populations during the 1992-1993 riots remains a significant chapter in the history of the city and the organization.

Conclusion

The 1992-1993 Bombay riots were a pivotal moment in the history of Mumbai, and they brought to the fore the conflicting narratives of Marathi nationalistic movements like Shiv Sena. While critics argue that the economic changes have diluted the influence of Marathi-speaking individuals, the role of Shiv Sena in providing security and relief during the riots cannot be denied.

Shiv Sena's actions demonstrated a commitment to protecting its community, a challenge that resonates with other movements and political entities facing similar challenges in diverse regions. The historical context and the actions taken by Shiv Sena during this period offer valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of communal relations and political activism in India.