The rhetoric of radicalisation in India – analysing Islamic extremist frames

Frames provide a unique perspective to bolster the processual understanding of radicalisation. Reflecting upon the importance of critical discourse on radicalisation, the paper discusses the rhetorical frames utilised in the radical publications by Islamic Extremist groups including magazines such as Sawt Al-Hind and Dabiq, targeting Indian audiences. Aimed at deconstructing the larger trajectories of extremist frames in the Indian context, the paper argues that the same apply the motifs of fear of a common universal enemy; persecution mania; ideal; place; sacrifice; and, propaganda of the deed, to construct a rhetoric aimed at promoting their own brand of social justice which justifies and necessitates violence. The result of this analysis establishes that the rhetorical employment of these core elements in the form of motifs helps in establishing a collective identity. This collective identity then becomes the basis for the mobilisation of extremist groups and legitimises their actions in the eyes of sympathisers. The paper concludes that the counter-narratives utilised by the State need careful construction keeping in view the nuances of the rhetorical frame sought to be countered.