Vulnerability and poverty during Covid-19: religious minorities in India
Think tank: Institute of Development Studies
Author(s): Joanna Howard
November 16, 2021
This report from UK think tank Institute of Development Studies looks at religious minorities living in urban slums in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka states in India.
This policy briefing, written by Dr Joanna Howard (IDS) and a co-author (who must remain anonymous for reasons of personal security), draws on research with religious minorities living in urban slums in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka states in India. Findings show that religiously motivated discrimination reduced their access to employment and statutory services during the pandemic. Harassment and violence experienced by Muslims worsened; and loss of livelihoods, distress, and despair were also acutely experienced by dalit Hindus. Government response and protection towards lower caste and religious minorities has been insufficient.
