As Karnataka set for poll, Muslims say they feel unsafe

POLL BATTLE: The young Muslims don't want a separate identity and a vote bank tag.

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Bangalore: The young, educated Muslims in Karnataka are at a crossroads. Their identity as an integral part of Karnataka's inclusive culture is now under threat. The recent campaign against terrorism in the state is making them feel vulnerable.

Sheema Mohsin, who stays in Bangalore, always believes that she is also as much Kannadiga as anybody else in Karnataka.

She is an avid reader and has a lot of interest in social and political debates. She notices that the free, liberal atmosphere has completely changed in the last 5-6 years.

Sheema says, “We have always been an integral part of Karnataka's life. Situation has changed in the last 5 - 6 years. "

The high decibel campaign against terrorism during elections make her more nervous.

She feels that young people like her are being forced to prove their loyalty. It isn't just Sheema's story. Lakhs of qualified Muslim youth in the state echo her sentiments.

Rizwan Arshad, a prosperous businessman from Mysore says that they feel isolated.

He says, “We are scared. Whenever there is a terror attack or activities, we become obvious target. "

Outgoing, ambitious youngsters blame the present vote bank politics for their plight.

Senior Congress leader C K Jaffer Sharief says, “Muslims are no longer vote banks. "

The Muslims have always been a part of mainstream Kannada society. The young Muslims don't want a separate identity and a vote bank tag. They want to remain Kannadigas just like the others.

It is very difficult to imagine Karnataka's socio cultural life without Muslims. The young voices want to reaffirm their faith in the cherished values of Karnataka. They hope that the elections will give them chance to reassert their identity.