On Extremism

Extremism is a cancer for which Muslims have found no cure or a way to halt its progression. It has disseminated into all the corners of Muslim world. All the spectra of society. The pre-cancerous conditions are too many & identifying them is near impossible. The Islamic Ummah badly needs to de-radicalize the burgeoning number of youths entangling in the shackles of extremist ideologies if they are to establish their status in the current world as a beacon of light.

What is holding back to eradicate extremism? The biggest hurdle in the global endeavours to fight against extremism or radicalization of Muslims is the lack of definition of extremism. Or evolving definitions. Not to mention the hypocrisy in this issue.

Let us look at the leaders of the Islamic world who are at the fore front in the global fight against extremism. When we look at Middle East we see utter absence of democracy. Oppression of the masses to perpetuate their rule. Saudi Arabia, a country which has an immense importance among Muslims since she has Kau'ba, is ruled by a Kingdom system. The royal family is fully supported by the US. And US talks of democracy! Another country is Egypt, whose leader is infamous for rigging elections & arresting opposition members. Another ally of US and West. These countries label whoever fights back the rampant corruption & oppression as radicals & extremists. And after 9/11, its very easy to get assistance from US to eliminate them.

These autocratic regimes face the biggest threat from those Muslims who are true to Islam. Those who are trying to uplift the Islamic Ummah, bring peace and harmony. Thus, they become scapegoats. These heroic individuals are harassed. They life is under close scrutiny of the autocratic governments. They cannot direct their attention to foil the attempts of misguided individuals. This creates an easy way for these people with the extremist ideologies to spread their tentacles. To infect the young minds. To deviate them from the true teachings of Islam.

We need to accept the reality. Else the Islamic Ummah is going to a point of no return. Each & every Muslim needs to do his part to save them from this eternal doom. Each can & should contribute.