The escalation of violence in Orissa has ignited the secularism debate yet again. Any kind of violence is undesirable and has to be avoided at all costs. Still, I can’t help wonder how many more tragedies would happen before this nation tackle the issue courageously.
What does Secularism stand for? I feel, secularism is the freedom to practice whichever religion one believes in. More importantly, it is the assurance that all religions would be treated equally by the nation and the system. In addition to this, being secular would also mean that one should not regard other religions as inferior or should not pass judgment on the beliefs and rituals of other religions.
The nation should show the courage to stop dividing its people on religious and caste lines. What is there to gain if I am a member of a particular religion or caste? Of course, it is the various reservations and other subsidies being given by the state. Apart from this, what is the difference between these religions? As per the concept of secularism given above, I cannot denounce other religions or claim that the path to salvation is ONLY by means of my religion. When people start claiming their own religion as the only enlightened one, or when they start luring others by means of cash or other materialistic means, the scene really gets ugly. Furthermore, when another group tries to win back the people who may have converted to a new faith, the situation is potentially explosive.
Unfortunately, our politicians never hesitate to exploit such a scene and all the hell breaks loose. Why can’t we the nation show the courage and wisdom to focus on the actual living conditions of each one of us, and help those who deserve, instead of doling out goodies based on caste and religion. As long as we continue the present system, we would continue to be exploited by the leaders of modern India.
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