Indian democracy has been facing Hi e threat (torn sectarian pomes tot last three decades. As such Muslim minority had been very vulnerable due to poor socio-economic background This got worsened by the state polices which dominated the social scene. On one hand they got discriminated against in the policies of the state, like in jobs. And on the other at social level, the lack of provision of support system kept them economically and socialy backward. This was compounded by the communal violence, which has the base in myths and prejudices against Muslims. This book takes a broad look at various aspects of the situation of this community today It gives a socio-economic background of the community The exclusion process of the community has marginalized them in various ways. The situation is worst compounded due the orthodox-conservative elements in the commurwy Added on to this, the community has been demonized intemabonaty also due to the US policies of control over oil zone Ayodhya issue has played a very critical role in the ascendance of politics which is detrimental to Muslims In India. The communal violence has led to a process of ghettoization and a further retreat Into the shell This has adversely affected the condrtion of Muslim women. The book takes up these issues and further goes on to outline the pathways for struggle for peace n the context of India's plural ethos and culture. It is an overview of the Muslim minority In Indian democratic set up.

Ram Punlyani lormer Pntfessor liT Mumbai took voluntary retirement In December 2004. He Is associated with various secular and democratic initiatives e.g. Ail India Secular Forum. Comoro for Study o Society and Secularism and An had He has been pan of 'Peoples tribunals' investigating n to vela futon( human rights of minorities. He contributes frequent articles on web. pkralindia com. Has been engaged in preparabon of material (books, posters, CDs) for popularization of plural, democratic and secular values. His Books include. Communal Potties: facts Versus Aiy/ns (Sage) Contours of Hindu Toshiba (Kalpaz) God Politics (Vitasta). Communal Threat to Secutare Democracy (Kalpaz). Contemporary Inca (Hope) Awards: Recipient of Indira Gandhi National Integration Award (2006). National Communal Harmony Award (2007).