As the holy month of Ramadan begins, a surge of divisive messages on social media has emerged, urging Muslims to buy goods exclusively from Muslim shopkeepers. In Bhopal, known for its Ganga-Jamuni culture, many members of the Muslim community have condemned this trend, stating that it promotes an unhealthy tradition. However, the viral messages have undeniably sparked political debates in the state.
Social Media Campaign Advocates Buying Only from Muslim Vendors
Messages circulating via mobile platforms and social media posts are making strong appeals to Muslims. One such message reads, “I request my Muslim brothers and sisters to purchase Iftar items only from Muslim vendors. Do not buy from Hindu shops or carts, as they might have malicious intent. Support your own community by shopping exclusively from Muslim traders.”
Online Campaign Gains Traction
Such appeals advising Muslims to shop only from Muslim vendors have gained momentum on social media platforms across India and beyond. A section of social media users is actively promoting this narrative. However, when India TV interviewed residents of Bhopal, many acknowledged receiving these messages but dismissed them, emphasizing that they would not be influenced by divisive propaganda aimed at creating societal rifts.
What People Are Posting Online
Apart from mobile messages, similar sentiments are being shared across social media platforms. An X user named Ibrar Ahmed posted, “Assalamualaikum, Ramadan Mubarak! The blessed month has arrived. Let’s support those who celebrate their Ramadan and Eid with our purchases. May Allah forgive our sins during this sacred time. Ameen.”
Another user, Tanveer, wrote, “Ramadan Mubarak to all my Muslim brothers and sisters. I urge all Muslims to purchase Iftar items only from Muslim vendors. Do not buy from Hindu shops or carts, as they might harbor ill intentions.”
Similarly, Ali Sohrab shared, “Forget about seeking their approval; they don’t even maintain proper hygiene. Buy your Iftar items from your own community and celebrate with your people.”
"इस्तिंजा" तो दूर की बात है
— Ali Sohrab (@007AliSohrab) March 1, 2025
नजिस तो मूतने के बाद हाथ भी नहीं धोते…
इसलिए रमदान/इफ़्तार की खरीदारी अपनों से ही करें…
अपना त्यौहार, अपनों से व्यवहार…#RamadanMubarak pic.twitter.com/zlAV3oesJ1
Political Reactions and Rising Tensions
This issue has taken a political turn as well. BJP MLA and former Protem Speaker Rameshwar Sharma commented that if Muslims insist on buying only from Muslim vendors, they should be prepared for a reciprocal boycott from Hindu society, which could pose economic difficulties for them.
Congress Voices Concern
A similar controversy arose last year when certain groups appealed to Hindus to shop only from Hindu vendors during Diwali, using the hashtag “Apna Tyohaar, Apno Ke Saath.” Now, with similar messages circulating during Ramadan, the Congress party has raised concerns. Speaking to India TV, MP Congress Media Department President Mukesh Nayak stated that over the past decade, divisive narratives have intensified in India, leading to people being encouraged to shop within their religious communities.
He further emphasized that festivals should be about unity and brotherhood, and any attempts to instigate divisions through such messages must be curbed.
