How the Mob was Mobilized in the Bengaluru Riots: Lessons from Kashmir

The recent riots in Bengaluru, one of India's largest urban centers, starkly highlighted the sophisticated methods used to mobilize mobs in modern times. The event, which drew parallels to tactics employed in Kashmir, underscores the significant role of social media and local religious institutions in organizing and amplifying group actions. This article delves into the mechanisms behind the mob's mobilization and explores the broader implications for communities and policymakers.

Introduction

The riots in Bengaluru, which took place in early 2023, were characterized by a highly organized and fast-moving mob. Many observed similarities with theModeefi phenomenon in Kashmir, where local religious leaders and social media influencers spearhead large-scale protests. This article aims to unpack the strategies used to mobilize protesters in Bengaluru, with a focus on the use of mosques and social media.

Role of Mosques in Mobilization

One of the primary mechanisms for mobilizing the crowd in the Bengaluru riots was the use of local mosques. These religious centers have long been a focal point for community gatherings and activism. In the days leading up to the riots, imams and other religious leaders urged their congregations to stand up against perceived injustices. Their sermons served as powerful calls to action, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among the faithful. Additionally, mosques provided a safe and familiar environment for people to come together, making it easier to organize and coordinate efforts.

Utilization of Social Media

While mosques played a crucial role in providing a physical meeting point, social media platforms were instrumental in amplifying and spreading the message. Platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Twitter became essential tools for mobilization. Here are some key ways in which social media influenced the riot dynamics:

1. Aggregation and Amplification

Content shared on these platforms quickly reached a wide audience. Posts, videos, and messages were shared and retweeted, creating a snowball effect. This rapid spread ensured that the message reached not just the immediate community but also a broader network of supporters. The use of hashtags, such as #BengaluruRiots and #JusticeNow, further helped in categorizing and spreading the awareness.

2. Coordination of Actions

Social media platforms facilitated real-time coordination of protests and actions. Participants could receive instant updates and instructions on where to rally and how to proceed. This instantaneous communication was a significant factor in the rapid scaling of the protest efforts.

3. Crowd Control and Security

In many instances, social media was used to identify and target key persons or infrastructure. Reports of police stations, government offices, and strategic locations were shared to either force authorities to act or to focus the rioters' efforts on specific targets. This tactic demonstrated how digital tools can be effectively used in the streets as well.

Comparison with Kashmir

The tactics employed in the Bengaluru riots echoed those seen in Kashmir, highlighting disturbing trends in the use of religious sites and social media for political and communal mobilization. In Kashmir, local religious leaders have played a critical role in organizing protests and maintaining public morale. Similarly, in Bengaluru, the synergy between physical and digital mobilization demonstrates the power of these strategies in modern urban settings.

Implications and Lessons Learned

The mobilization of the mob in the Bengaluru riots serves as a wake-up call for both policymakers and community leaders. Here are some key takeaways:

1. Importance of Community Engagement

Local communities must be actively engaged in peaceful dialogue and constructive activities. Religious leaders can serve as key mediators, but without sustained community engagement, their influence risks being misused.

2. Strengthening Law Enforcement

The response to such riots needs to be swift and effective. Law enforcement agencies should be equipped with the necessary training and resources to identify and counteract early signs of unrest. Effective early intervention can prevent the escalation of tensions into full-blown riots.

3. Enhancing Digital Literacy

There is a critical need to enhance digital literacy and awareness of online manipulation. Educating the public on how to identify misleading information and disinformation can help mitigate the spread of false narratives and reduce the impact of digital mobilization.

Conclusion

The events in Bengaluru serve as a stark reminder of the pervasive and potent role of religious institutions and social media in modern communal mobilization. While they can drive positive change, the potential for misuse and escalation is significant. As society grapples with these challenges, addressing the root causes of communal tensions and enhancing community resilience will be crucial.