Archive · 11 Aug 2025
Urban Fear in India: State Actions and the 'Foreigner' Scare
Imagine cities are like big homes.
Some people are building walls to keep out those they see as different.
But now, the government is acting in ways that make some people, especially those who speak certain languages, feel scared.
They might get treated unfairly by the government and fear being kicked out of their homes.
This makes these people leave the city, which hurts the city's growth and makes it less friendly to everyone.
The government's actions make the people who trust them the most, afraid.
This isn't good because it breaks down trust in the government and hurts the city.
Urban fear is rising in Indian cities, targeting vulnerable populations.
Fear is fueled by rumors and arbitrary actions by state bodies.
Bengali-speaking populations face the threat of state action.
This fear undermines trust in the state and threatens urban growth.
The state's actions disproportionately affect those who trust it most.
- Who
- Vulnerable populations, particularly Bengali speakers.
- What
- Rise of urban fear targeting vulnerable populations.
- When
- Since 2015, with the Smart Cities Mission.
- Where
- Indian cities.
- Why
- Fueled by state actions, rumors, and a sense of threat.
Affected Populations
State Actors
Impact of State Actions
Affected Populations
The state's actions are creating an environment of fear and mistrust.
State Actors
N/A
- Targeted Group
- Bengali-speaking populations
- Location of Fear
- Indian cities
- Initiated by
- State bodies
- Primary concern
- Fear of state action
- Undermines
- Trust in the state