What Is A Pasmanda Muslim?

[muslimsforum]

Pasmanda Muslims is a socio-political term used primarily in India to describe backward, marginalized, and oppressed Muslim communities—mainly those belonging to Dalit, backward castes (OBC), and tribal backgrounds. The term “Pasmanda” originates from the Persian word “Pasmandah,” which translates to “those who have been left behind.”

This term is used to highlight the social and economic inequality within Indian Muslim society, especially in contrast to Ashraf Muslims (those who claim foreign ancestry, like Sayyids, Pathans, or Mughals) who have historically had more influence and privilege.

Does Islam Support This Division?
Absolutely not. Islam does not recognize caste, ethnicity, or lineage as a basis for superiority.

Qur’an (49:13) clearly states:
“O Mankind! We have created you from a male and a female and divided you into nations and tribes so that you may recognize one another. Indeed, the most noble among you in the sight of Allah is the one who has the most piety (taqwa)."

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“There is no superiority of an Arab over a non-Arab, or of a white over a black, except by righteousness.” - Musnad Ahmad, Sahih

These verses and hadiths make it clear that Islam does not recognize caste, race, or social status as valid categories of distinction. Everyone is equal before Allah, and taqwa (piety) is the only measure of true honor.

Then Why Does the Pasmanda Issue Exist?
Although Islam preaches equality, Indian Muslims live in a society that historically practiced caste and social stratification. Many converts to Islam brought their caste identities with them, and unfortunately, those divisions persisted culturally — not religiously, but socially and economically.

(a) Pasmanda Muslims often face discrimination in marriage, employment, education, and religious leadership roles.
(b) They are underrepresented in Muslim political, religious, and educational institutions.

What Can Be Done?
Muslims Forum and other conscious platforms can:
(a) Promote the Islamic message of equality and brotherhood
(b) Raise awareness about internal social injustices
(c) Support education, representation, and upliftment of all marginalized groups
(d) Encourage Muslims to drop un-Islamic caste identities and unite as one Ummah


The concept of Pasmanda is a social reality but not an Islamic one. Muslims must return to the true teachings of Islam, where honor is based on character, not caste — and actively work to eliminate the deep-rooted injustices that divide our communities.