Liberal Activists: Playing by the System and Making Gains

Abstract

This chapter analyzes the relationships Muslim ‘liberal’ activists have with the state. Just like the ulama, the liberals are not a monolithic group, with various approaches taken by different actors. However, by and large, the liberals, again like the ulama, play by the rules of the game set by the state. In fact, I argue that liberals have managed to maximize their space the most as compared to conservatives, for reasons which are explained in the chapter.