Targeted Attacks on Deepawali: How Islamist intolerance escalated threats against festive celebrations (2005–2026)

Targeted Attacks on Deepawali: How Islamist intolerance escalated threats against festive celebrations (2005–2026)

Over the past two decades, between 2005 and 2026, the celebration of Deepawali-the traditional Hindu festival of lights-has increasingly faced direct threats, disruption, and violent attacks from Islamist fundamentalists. Across various regions, local communities gathering to observe sacred rituals, light diyas, and participate in festive processions have encountered targeted stone-pelting, vandalism of temples, and public intimidation aimed at …