Drug Jihad, also known as Narcotics Jihad, is a conspiracy theory alleging that Muslim men deliberately sell or supply drugs to Hindu youth to addict them as part of a broader plot to weaken, corrupt, or destroy Hindu society.
Background and Context
The term emerged in 2021 and has since been amplified by Hindu nationalist groups and leaders of the ruling BJP. It is often invoked in speeches, rallies, and social media campaigns. It is frequently framed as part of a broader strategy alongside Love Jihad, reinforcing the narrative of a coordinated plot against Hindu society. It frames ordinary crimes or drug trade activities as part of a religiously motivated strategy of “jihad.”
Impact and Harm
This theory weaponizes communal prejudice by portraying Muslims as inherently criminal, deceptive, dangerous, and willing to use narcotics as a weapon to spread Islam. Promoted by BJP leaders and far-right figures at rallies and online, it reframes drug abuse, an urgent public health and criminal justice issue, into a communal conspiracy. It casts Muslims as waging a “new form of war,” which inflames suspicion, legitimizes harassment, vigilante violence, discriminatory policing, and extrajudicial targeting of Muslims.
Variants and Alternative Forms
नशा जिहाद Narcotic Jihad Narcotics Jihad
Online Usage
