The secular debate goes on and on and on….so does the violence…
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...