Living in a multi-religious India today

 Pranprathistha is done at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on January 22^nd;  the BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi  will be inaugurated on 14^th February. Elections could be anticipated then, while the Lotus 2.0 project continues to poach MLAs and destabilize the elected non-BJP governments! The PM  with the “aura of raja and rishi” — avatar of Indian political, religious and economic development– is all set for electorate gain, and  for Hindu Rashtra (Ram Rajya). Ache din, assurance of job and  benefit for  those socio-economically poor, are all gone! Now it is all about realizing the Hindutva ideology of the RSS. With a majoritarian political pressure and campaign  on centralising Hinduism, there is hype to instigate the religious sentiments of people, which has terrible psychological impact.  It is an irony, that in a secular country, democracy is measured by a majoritarian religious faith and practice. A nation where Schedule Caste, Dalits and other lower-caste people who converted to Islam, Sikhism and Christianity to escape the Brahminical caste-based oppression, are now treated as outsiders. The persecution of minorities is on the rise, and the perpetrators of oppressive offences go scot-free. And all this is done with “a discreet variant on strident saffron, a spiritual hue glowing with political purpose.”  The intention is not to improve the citizens’ living conditions, but to control their minds and actions on the pretext of ‘Ram Rajya’ based on a pseudo-‘dharma’. Beyond all else, the Hindutva spirit is forcefully hovering  all around.

 In short, Hindu religion is amalgamated with Indian nationalism – a fascist Hindutva consciousness, with ‘improvised’ ethics and ethos. Contrary to Gandhi’s inclusive common mission, the seeds of discord and division have already been sown in the secular nation’s lives, changing the core of belief systems of Indian society and politics. India with its past democratic,  inclusive and pluralist credentials beyond  caste or creed appears to be fragile today. The polarising  political currents with Hindutva dominance, afflict the Indian Republic.  The minorities are in need of protection from the formidable socio-religious and political ferment, with “signs of the triumph” of a particular faith. Today,  a cultural consciousness is embedded with  explicit and particular religious sensibilities, ingrained in  inequality and injustices.

 

The ruling dispensation is making mockery of democracy, by making mythically based idol-worship a primary political issue. It is a forceful move to make India a Hindu nation, trying to revive the ‘Sanatan Dharma’s, “Hindu social ethics of intrinsic inequity of castes.”  As Vishal Mangalwadi, in his open letter to Modi, writes about him, promoting the worship of  “mythical gods” instead of praying to “the sovereign Creator, the shaper of India’s destiny (Bharat Bhagya Vidhata)”.[1]  The national motto, Satyameva Jayate (Truth Alone Triumphs) has been overturned with myths and lies.  According to Gandhiji only truth liberates, myths enslave.

 

The invisible God who is pure Spirit without shape or form, cannot be turned into an image. Man-made gods, says Mangalwadi, are false gods, out of human imagination. Instead, we are created to seek truth and wisdom to understand the divine in us. Human civilization is built on this search for the truth, seeking God’s kingdom here on earth, based on social, moral and ethical values. Religion helps in righteous living with justice and equality. The present dominant political culture, on the contrary,  twists and turns, to fabricate false gods by ‘abusing’ religion for electoral gain. Infected with corruption, the Indian leadership has lost credibility. Human dignity must be protected, for the divine in the human is sacred.

 

We the people of a multi-faith India, along with the civil society activists, thinkers, writers, journalists, artists and other like-minded people need to work together to stop the fascist forces from misrule through different means. Unconditionally, without any selfish motives, we need to oppose strongly and forcefully, such arbitrary governance, and work towards rebuilding the federal, democratic and secular Indian Republic that guarantees a free dignified life of the common people. These bodies need to take a positive direction to ensure the same, through inter-faith dialogues and socio-cultural programs.

 

Together we need to demand that all anti-people Policies, and Acts be scrapped, and replace  them with the “People First” Policy, that ensures a stable, dignified and peaceful life of all Indians living in harmony with each other. The government is to be set at the centre that takes stringent action to curb the forces that indulge in spreading communal hatred; caste discrimination; violence against minorities and women; oppression of the weaker sections; and against those who destroy the environment.

 

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[1] Cf. A letter "Idolatry: Essence and Consequences" written to Mr. Arun Shourie in 1994 (30th Aug) was published in Vishal Mangalwadi, Missionary Conspiracy: Letters to a Postmodern Hindu, Nivedit Good Books Distributors 1998.

 

 

UNITED INTEGRAL LIVING IN INDIA WITHIN RELIGIO-SPIRITUAL PLURALITY

 

India is a country of diverse religions, cultures, and traditions. It is also a country that has faced many challenges and conflicts due to its diversity. However, India has also shown remarkable resilience and creativity in finding ways to live in harmony and mutual respect among its different communities. One of the concepts that can help us understand this phenomenon is united integral living, which refers to a holistic and inclusive approach to life that transcends narrow identities and boundaries. Now, this same India, that is Bharat,– influenced by the majoritarian RSS-BJP politics that emboldens its Right-Wings affiliations to persecu­te and oppress the minorities– is living through a phenomenon of Hindutva nationalism, and in the words of Arundhuti Roy, the “collective, psychological capture” leading to the “centralization of Hinduism”. In this present situation, how can then India achieve a united integral living within its religious spiritual plurality? This article aims to explore this question by examining the concept of united integral living, the factors that promote or hinder it, and the possible ways to foster it in the Indian context.

Integral living is a holistic approach to life that encompasses physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions. It is based on the recognition that all aspects of life are interconnected and interdependent, and that one's well-being depends on the well-being of others and the environment. Living in unity within Indian religio-spiritual plurality means that people of different faiths and backgrounds can coexist peacefully and cooperatively, while also respecting and celebrating their differences. It also means that people can integrate their spiritual values and practices into their daily lives, without compromising their integrity or authenticity. A united integral living in India is not a utopian ideal, but a realistic and achievable goal that has been demonstrated by many examples throughout history and in the present. It also implies a respect for diversity and a willingness to learn from different perspectives and traditions.

Here are some of the factors that contribute to united living within religio-spiritual plurality:

One of the factors that can promote united integral living in India is the common heritage of spirituality that underlies all religions. The ancient and rich philosophical traditions of India, such as Vedanta, Yoga, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, and others, that offer various paths and perspectives to attain the ultimate reality, which is often seen as one and the same by different names. India has been a cradle of such various spiritual traditions living in harmony, including  Islam, Christianity, and others. These traditions share some core values and principles, such as compassion, non-violence, service, harmony, and transcendence. They also offer different paths and practices to realize one's true nature and connect with the divine. By acknowledging and appreciating this common spiritual heritage, Indians can foster a sense of unity in diversity and a mutual respect for each other's beliefs and practices.

Another factor that can promote unity in religio-spiritual and cultural diversity in India is the culture of dialogue and pluralism that has been nurtured by its history and constitution. India has been a land of dialogue and exchange among different civilizations, cultures, and religions for centuries. The syncretic and pluralistic nature of Indian culture, which has absorbed and assimilated influences from various regions, civilizations, and eras, resulting in a mosaic of diverse expressions and manifestations of art, literature, music, architecture, cuisine, and more. The constitutional and legal framework of India, adopted a secular and democratic constitution that guarantees freedom of religion and expression, as well as equal rights, opportunities  and protection for all citizens regardless of their faith or background. By engaging in dialogue and pluralism, Indians of the Democratic Secular Socialist Federal Republic can enhance their understanding and appreciation of each other's views and values, as well as their common interests and challenges. They can also resolve their differences peacefully and constructively, without resorting to violence or extremism. The social and civic movements and initiatives that promote interfaith dialogue, harmony, and cooperation among different communities, such as the Sarva Dharma Samabhava (equal respect for all religions), the Interfaith Harmony Foundation of India, the United Religions Initiative, and others.

The personal and collective examples of leaders and role models who have embodied and advocated for unity in diversity, such as Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, Swami Vivekananda, Mother Teresa, Abdul Kalam, Dalai Lama, and many more.

However, there are also some factors that can hinder harmonious living in Indian religious plurality. One of them is the rise of communalism and fundamentalism that threatens the secular fabric of the nation. Communalism is the tendency to emphasize one's religious identity over one's national identity, and to view other religions as enemies or rivals. Fundamentalism is the tendency to adhere to a rigid and literal interpretation of one's religion, and to reject any form of diversity or dialogue. Both communalism and fundamentalism can lead to intolerance, hatred, violence, and discrimination against those who belong to different religions or sects.

Another factor that can hinder unity is the lack of education and awareness about the richness and diversity of India's religious spiritual plurality. Many Indians are ignorant or misinformed about the beliefs and practices of other religions or sects. They may also have stereotypes or prejudices about them based on media portrayals or political agendas. This can result in mistrust, fear, or hostility towards those who are different from oneself. It can also prevent one from learning from or collaborating with them for the common good.

Therefore, it is imperative to foster an united integral living in India within its religious spiritual plurality by addressing these factors. Some of the possible ways to do so are:

- Promoting interfaith dialogue and cooperation among different religious communities and organizations. This can help to build bridges of understanding, respect, and friendship among them. It can also help to identify and address the common issues and concerns that affect them all.

- Educating the youth about the diversity and richness of India's religious spiritual plurality. This can help to instil a sense of curiosity, appreciation, and openness towards other religions or sects. It can also help to dispel myths, misconceptions, or biases about them.

- Encouraging personal exploration and experimentation with different spiritual paths and practices. This can help to develop one's own spirituality and find what works best for oneself. It can also help to expand one's horizons and perspectives by experiencing different ways of relating to oneself, others, and the divine.

- Integrating spirituality into everyday life and social action. This can help to cultivate a holistic lifestyle that balances one's physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. It can also help to express one's spirituality through service, compassion, justice, peace, and ecology.

 By implementing these measures, India can achieve integral living in unity within its religio-spiritual plurality. This can enhance its social cohesion, cultural diversity, national integration, global citizenship, and human development. Living in harmony in India is not only a possibility but a necessity for the survival and flourishing of humanity in the 21st century. It is a way of life that can foster peace, harmony, happiness, and well-being for all. It is a vision that can inspire us to transcend our differences and discover our common humanity. It is a challenge that can motivate us to grow and evolve as individuals and as a society.

 

Asian Cardinals for the Asian/Universal Church?

 

 Pope Francis has chosen and created new Cardinals (designate), surprising the world with a counter-traditional strategy. Unpredictably, these new ‘red hats’ represent a broader geographically promising land. Francis’ choice of Cardinals ensures the continuity of his reform process and the legitimate Church renewal, with emphasis on the Roman Curia, the laity, the family and the world itself. The new Asian entry into the new Curial structure mostly under the age of 80 (youngest being 48 years old) and from Religious orders, will decide on the choice of a new Pope after Francis’ heart and mind. There are 6 Jesuit Cardinals and 9 Salesians.

 

Six cardinals-designate are from Asia including the first Cardinal from the marginalized Dalit community. Of the 132 Cardinals who will enter a conclave to elect a new Pope, 83 of them (63%) are created by Francis of which almost 16% are Asian.  India has two new Cardinals – the first Telegu Dalit (“trampled upon") Cardinal Anthony Poola of Hyderabad and Archbishop Felipe Nerri from a Catholic stronghold Goa and Daman.

 

Dalit refers to people treated with disrespect and as untouchables following the caste system which is prevalent in the Church in India. Cardinal Poola is expected to represent the Dalit cause in the Church and resolve some of the issues concerned, including those of the Adivasis (Indigenous Tribals) as the late Cardinal Telesphore Toppo did.  Casteism is a serious issue of concern for the Church in India (cf. M. L. Satyan, https://mattersindia.com/2022/06/casteism-in-indian-catholic-church/, 2 June 2022). Biblically following, the Church leaders are to humbly ‘wash the feet of the Christian followers’ (cf. John 13:13-15). It is specifically stated: “For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Gal 3: 27-28).  Following so, early Christians, in fact, as a united community, disposed of their possessions and shared them in common, avoiding any social and economic inequalities, following the Way. Today, the marginalized communities (SC, ST) have been discriminated and disrespected. Unfortunately, perpetrating the same, the CBCI has a separate commission for “Dalits and Minorities”!  

 

Francis has bypassed the traditional cardinal seats from major dioceses and regions, and focused on the emerging Churches as he selected Cardinals from the “peripheries”. It is noted that while the Oriental Syro-Malabar, Syro-Malankara, Maronite, Chaldean, Romanian and Ethiopian Churches have cardinals, many other small Churches have been left out. This shift itself is a reminder to the leaders of the Church and the new candidates to be the voice of Asia and not simply sound the Roman dictate (Cf. chhotebhai, https://mattersindia.com/2022/06/hat-trick/, June 3, 2022).  Preferring the liberals, the Pope wants his like-minded Cardinals to pave the way for much reformation in the Church following the Vatican II’s proposals of inculturation and decentralization. The Curial reforms initiated by Francis will affect a major change in the Church governance. The convening of Vatican III may follow the mega Synod on Synodality (October 2023). Now that there are going to be 21 Asian Cardinals, this will have major effect on the appointment of the next Pope.

 

In view of the election of the future, I firmly hold that all the presidents of national episcopal conferences are to be part of the electoral body. So too representatives from religious orders and the laity must be invited to express their view about the Church and in electing a Pope. Conclave need not be restricted only to cardinals, which the Pope chooses independently and at his own discretion. This is not in line with the principle and the spirit of Vatican II. Synodality implies co-responsibility at all levels of the Church. While trying to balance the relationship between the centre and the peripheries, papal primacy and collegiality, the clergy and  the laity, the pope and the Roman Curia, the present trend of  giving the red hat to men in countries, dioceses without cardinals, or to those from ethnic/tribal communities as mere appeasement, do not address the issues that most concern the Church.

 

Again, the College of Cardinals does not offer a "faithful image of (the Church's) diversity". (Robert Mickens, https://international.la-croix.com/news/letter-from-rome/synodality-and-electing-the-bishop-of-rome/16265, 20.6.2022). And the arbitrarily selected members by the pope alone does nothing to change that.  Robert Michen says, it smacks of absolute authority and risks in favouring the Pope’s favoured one. The lay people in the spirit of Synodality, must be part of selecting their Pope. Therefore, the Eastern Church Patriarchs and the members of the Synod of Bishops' permanent council can participate in the conclave.

 

The vocations of Cardinals and Bishops are a call to Christian unity. The exclusive power of the College of Cardinals to elect a Pope, can become a procedure of great abuse. This college "does not relate directly or structurally to the episcopal conferences". Again, neither the consultative body - College of Cardinals – is taken into confidence fully. Synodality signifies the Church's communal life and decision-making process, which includes the participation of all the People of God, ordained, lay and vowed religious. Francis’ radical reforming interest in revising or updating the Church has to extend to the selection and appointment of bishops as well.

 

Coming back to Asia/India, an appointment of a Cardinal from a Dalit/minority community is not enough; he must work towards the empowerment of Dalit community in India through “concrete plans” of action made public and persevered upon.  A Cardinal, of whatsoever background, is a Shepherd who serves the universal Church with “smell of the sheep”, working for all. In this context, Cardinal Charles Bo (FABC President), Joseph Zen, Cleemis Catholicos, Oswald Gracias, George Alencherry and other important Asian Church leaders will need to be more vocal in  public against the rising persecution of Christians by the Military regime of Myanmar, the Chinese Marxist government and the RSS-backed  BJP rule in India respectively, while sharing Francis’ worldview. As the final punch, here is what an Indian Church leader must do: lead a simple life, visit the prisons, hospitals, child care homes, home for the aged, those differently abled, help the poor, express solidarity and concern; join the justice-rally,  interact with the people, and listen and learn from them. He must commit himself to serve the needy, the marginalized and the oppressed.

 

  

 

 

A PROPHET, REJECTED IN OWN COUNTRY

    

In Matthew’s account, the rejected Jesus at Nazareth, refers to himself as a prophet. More than a prophet Jesus is the Word Incarnate - the Truth in person. According to the OT, a prophet is a religious visionary and truth-teller, someone who feels with God and speaks out that felt experience. They speak truth to power. As he/she stubbornly sees the world through the lens of God’s word and speaks the truth, it implies opposition, confrontation, and critique. Prophets often spoke a ‘message from God’ while reading the signs of the times, spoke of God’s revealed truth into that particular situation, as a warning of what was to come if one did not follow the way. They simply and fearlessly pointed out the obvious (John the Baptist spoke bluntly against Herod the Tetrarch living with his brother’s wife). 

 Today’s prophets do not  condemn a person, instead, presents God’s word to evoke and provoke in order to enlighten others, and help to come face-to-face with the living God. We all need to heed to the “prophets'' of our days and participate in the prophetic ministry of Christ by incarnating God’s word within a particular situation; allow them to inform our way of thinking, acting, and speaking. Their ‘insights’ are the lens by which we read the signs of the times. John’s outspoken truth cost him his head. The nonsensical pride and vanity of the day can make people spineless. Persons become unable to resist the lure of the world. Sin strives.  Conscience and truth are compromised. Prophets, in such situation, become a light in the darkness. They give witness to us. We all are called to follow in the same prophetic path, remaining firm in the truth. Can we be counted among the prophets of our days? 

 The Present Day Prophets

It is time to listen to the prophets of today. Swami Agnivesh and Stan Swamy have been led to their death; so too many, innocent though, are languishing behind bars. Hans Kung died recently, unreconciled with the doctrinal Church. A Prophet raises up the conscience of the people with an existential and contextual significance. Persecuted as God’s servant ((Jn 15:20) Stan Swamy proved his prophetic identity, through a fuller participation in paschal mystery by self-emptying, for the sake of the marginalised and the exploited Adivasis in India (cf. Edwin Rodrigues, editorial, VJTR, 85(August 2021)8, p.4). Stan resisted inequality, and took prophetic stand for justice and human rights. A true prophet infuses valour and courage in persons, to be other prophets in the society. Like Stan, many a prophet, serve as a “grain of wheat that falls to the ground and dies” (Jn 12:24) through their upright life and struggle. Prophets express dissent and raise questions, to right the wrong through a strength of character. While the common people acclaim them, they face criticism and condemnation from the authority, for whom they are a threat. Prophets commit themselves to the cause of the most vulnerable and speak out for them through critical thought and action. They are the ‘salt’ and ‘leaven’ on this earth, to energize and bring new life in the people.

 Many prophets are still existing today through their extraordinary life of dedication to truth and justice. Many are critical of the Church, and yet are loyal to her despite of difficulties. Some are treated harshly by the Church and the society. Yet, they continue asking questions that calls for reflective answers. Many dare making significant contribution to the society and to the Church. Some recognize their prophetic nature manifested through their work and teaching. They serve as the signposts for a journey of radical transformation and change. Many of them prophesy through their writings and critics. In this changing time, their actions and words sum up their prophesying. The prophets seize the moment as ‘hot’, and alert others to opportunity for change, towards new direction. But often enough, the prophet in them is ignored, their words rejected. But in course of time, they are recognized, and the truth they hold to is acknowledged. Jesus had experienced so:  "A prophet is not honoured in his own home town"(Jn 4: 44). "No prophet is ever accepted in his own country" (Lk 4:24).

If we but listen, the words of prophesy continue to echo down the years, convincing people to follow the path that one should tread. Its vision continues creeping in. Their words continue to teach and take form, as people begin to imprint them in their minds and hearts. It disturbs, though, the peace of mind. That is what the prophets do. They dare disturb human silence, ask questions and suggest ways to follow. Like John the Baptist, the voice of the prophet leads to discomfort. Today, they raise issues that many avoid listening. Prophets today raise the problem of climate change and on caring for creation, for the sake of all, for now and for the future. They challenge our style of living, our values and judgments. They persist on saying, “listen before it is too late”. The Old Testament Prophets told a story for their people, in order to reflect, in practical terms, on the perceived will of God for their lives. The voice of John the Baptist, crying in the wilderness, drew attention of the people to Jesus. Prophets earn the title of prophet by their courage, examples and their fearless voice.

 Men and women of such fortitude and courage, point the direction that we must all follow. Some are titled ‘saints, others are passed by, unacknowledged.  Yet, their rippled impact is felt on our lives. If one discerns and observes, their prophecy becomes real. Prophets are persons, set aside, chosen from the people, to tell a story with a radical vision. In Deuteronomy we read, "The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your countrymen, you shall listen to him" (Deut 8.15). All faith traditions have their prophets, who tell a story to inspire and act. The Global Ethic Foundation (1996) of Hans Küng promotes dialogue between the faiths for peace and unity. Prophets give guidance, to which we need to listen and adhere to. But how? Prophetic words are written out there, if we are only ready to read them in our times. (cf. Chris McDonnell, https://international.la-croix.com/news/religion/prophecy-in-our-time/14349, 5.9.2021)

The Secular Lay Prophets

There are more lay prophets than the ‘clerical’ ones. The pandemic has precipitated a situation that ushered in many such lay prophets – doctors, nurses, social workers, health centres, etc., often without reputation.  They are known for taking decisive action to deal with the immediate solution to problems presently felt through a "leap of faith". These lay prophets rise above the reality of religious practices and rituals, in order to serve the society with responsibilities. During the past pandemic seasons since its start, many of them have not taken any vacation. Many stayed away from families for months just to serve the sick. Today’s lay prophets have started serving the Church and its clergy as official representatives in socio-secular fields and in the governance of the Church.  They serve as close collaborators with the Church authority, in a move that is “audacious, even prophetic”, entailing risks though. For them it is further more prophetic in being careful not to become an authoritarian "clericalized layperson". Instead, they try to promote complementarity between the different states of life while keeping in tune with the society and the representative of the "people of God". In fact, thy are ‘models’ to follow, in order to build a new reality. It is a lay culture of participation, which demands for progressive ecclesial changes by being discreetly outspoken. All the baptized are called to participate more fully (prophetically) in the life of the Church, motivated by more pragmatic considerations. It is more than doing a job as priests or laity. Now is the time and a chance to better appropriate a prophetic process in the life of the Church. (Cf. Mélinée Le Priol, Leap of faith leadership, https://international.la-croix.com/news/religion/diocese-in-switzerland-becomes-a-laboratory-for-lay-leadership/14724, 30.7.2021).

Prophets dream dreams.  They are essential for the world's evolution (Cf. Brendan MacCarthaigh, https://international.la-croix.com/news/ religion /dream-and-take-a-first-step/14832, 5.9.2021). They think and talk more seriously about dreams beyond mere expectations. These lay prophets anticipate the Kingdom of God while suffering ridicule and head-on opposition. Following certain ideals in life, they buy into a new interpretation of life, and dare promote it, in the midst of opposition. Such prophetic dreams are dangerous.  These dreamer-prophets come to us as unpleasant, yet history will speak of them in future.

 

Subtle Superstitions in a Make-Belief India

 Like the Muslims, Christians in India are a minority. There is no near scope for them to turn into majority. The majority Right-Wing Hindus’ mistrust on the minority is a warning for the rest of the Indians. There is animosity encouraged by the religion-based political groups. Further dangers are lying in wait for these minority groups in India. Though, majority of the minorities respect the greater part of the Hindu society, for their openness towards other faith communities, especially that of the Christian community, yet we would never know whether the RSS-based Hindutva movement would keep them in peace and united. There are Hindu misgivings among the followers of such movement.   It is difficult to work towards national unity in diversity, when there are sharply different faith communities with hard-core ideologies and subtle superstitions in play. Only a ‘multicultural unity in diversity’ that is harmonious, can survive the existing socio-political ‘superstitions’ and succeed.

 

 With the blind belief in the Pegasus ‘avatar’ with the confidence of ruling the nation un-opposed with immortality and its corrupt and false ‘belief’ system, has turned the BJP led government stoop to an abysmal depth of lies through an unjust muscle-rule. The suppression of truth and justice to its lowest level, through systemic exploitations of state institutions including the judiciary and bureaucracy following a denial mode through utter ‘established lies’, have reached its highest level. The fascistic fear of being exposed of the ‘falsely built up governance’ and of a continuous wrongdoing, has led the present dispensation to weaponising ‘evil’ at all levels. The nation is being led towards a terrible, destructive, superstitious and lies-filled ‘epidemic’, mainly due to the BJP’s lust for ‘immortal’ power, which only God the Father has. It’s falsely built ‘political heaven’ (read haven) with the help of the winged Pegasus ‘snoopgate’ scam is already leading India to its doom.

The arrest and the death of Stan Swamy questions the intent and misuse of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act. His death becomes a matter of shame for any right-thinking individual who professes faith in God and in democracy. The state with its ruling government is perhaps the most intolerant of any form of dissent. The sangh parivar’s single Hindutva agenda, with its superstitious and false democratic belief system, overrules all governance, diving people between ‘we’ versus ‘them’. It is continuously violating the rights of the citizen to privacy, to freedom of speech and expression and the right to dissent. The right to dissent, according to Romila Thapar, is part of the right to free speech and right to religious freedom from political-social-religious ‘superstitious practices’. From the religious perspective India never has been a harmonious entity, but of contradictions, while trying to live in unity within diversities (cf. Samantak Das, The Telegraph, 29 July 2021). The Constitution grants freedom of “thought, expression, belief, faith and worship.” These rights collectively allow collective dissent. Dissenting belief systems e.g. Buddhism, Jainism, Bhakti, Sufi, Arya Samaj, Brahmo Samaj, were real.  Dissent is the denial of consent to the majoritarian ideology for the sake of a ‘higher motive’. Therefore, by gagging dissenters, the opportunity for dialogue for unity is lost.

In a country ruled by a majority Hindus, the Hindu community itself can change the equation and allow all to live with equal rights, enshrined by the Constitution. Hindu priorities cannot overrule the priorities of the other minority communities. But, the real danger lies in “majority communalism”. There are Christians by conviction, just like some of the Hindus and Muslims. There are also devout Christians, Hindus and Muslims among politicians, judges, businessmen, diplomats, bureaucrats and media personnel. And,  as Sunanda K. Datta-Ray says, there are people of religious faith by instinct, wherein religion, culture and identity are  all rolled into one (e.g. Talibans), as manifested in some inaugural ceremonies by the ministers, mixing the ‘religious’ with the secular. This is out of sheer political demands e.g. the penitential ghar wapsi ceremony (Cf. Sunanda Datta-Ray, The Telegraph, 10 July, 2021).

 Obviously, the majority communalism is feared, based on facts and conscious prejudice.  Such antagonism is more complex in India.  A Christian priest with the clerical dress donned, a Catholic nun in her garb, a bearded muslin with cap on, a mosque, a crossed Church, are tangible targets of hate. Added to this, rituals, rites, folklore, and other external religious practices keep vengeful passions festering. They are a part of “collective memory” of particular religious community. Besides, the social and westernized overtones and rituals of the Indian Christians, cause majoritarian resentment. Each community has to respect the traditional sensibilities of other communities. Still date, as human beings, we fail when we are not ready to eat, drink and pray with one who is religiously different from us. The convivial moments are occasions of building up the harmony needed to live in unity.  

The Pew Research survey "Religion in India: Tolerance and Segregation," (2019- 2020) with 30,000 interviews in 17 languages, identifies major attitudes and dispositions among the different religious communities in India. A visit and respect to a line of large statues/idols is considered good luck and the remover of ‘evil blocks’ in many religions. Such superstitious practices drew comment and criticisms. According to a Pew Research, about 64% of all respondents, mostly from the BJP dominated northern India hold that to be truly Indian it is very important to be a Hindu. For 53%, knowing Hindi is essential to the national identity. Besides, it states that “tolerance is a religious as well as civic value…. respecting other religions” (Sunanda, The Telegraph, 10^th July, 2021). Contrary to this view, persecution of tribal Christians and the lynching of poor Muslims and Dalits are quite common religious violence. The instigated events are outcome of the divisive ideology of Hindutva which is not part of the Indian ethos, instead, is a fascist ideology.

 

The segmented toleration has corrupted its accommodative nature. All religious groups in India are inherently conservative and adamantly against conversion - love jihad, forced conversions, etc. Conversion is that of the heart and the mind. Contrary to this, divisive and superstitious view have led to the practice of caste within religious rituals. It is held by majority Hindus that the Dalits cannot change their faith. Against this conservative view, the interfaith and inter-caste marriages are on the increase.

The Indian women of all religious groups are opposing the religious patriarchy. Discrimination is accepted as a norm practice, against human rights. While the major parts of the world, with its economic growth, are rapidly secularizing, 97% of all Indians still believe in God. Its religiosity seems to have increased. Many Indians are ‘religious’ even if they do not enter a mosque or temple. Often their religiosity is understood in terms of their abstention from beef or pork. It is not defined by rituals of worship, nor by their tolerance towards others. It is superstitious belief of being part of the ‘best religion’ while hating the other religions.

 

As Bhanu Mehta states: “We are a religious country, ideologically committed to diversity but exclusionary and segmented in our tolerance. Where individual freedom has less and less support, where authoritarianism is a constant temptation, and where the benchmarks of national identity are drawn more and more from Hindutva” (Myron Pereira, ucanews, July 07, 2021). A political obsession with religiosity, has led to the collapse of economy, bad governance, pandemic mismanagement, and denial of the truth. Yet, religiosity in terms of politics and culture matter the most. 

 

In contrast, Christianity is not just a moral yardstick, concerned with ethics. Christ is an incarnated cosmic ‘reality’, who stands for God who is all-goodness, justice and truth. He fought against a death-obsessed culture: injustice, inequality, violence, hatred, egotism, exclusion, false religion, fake community. True religions has allegiance to a God who enters into the darkness of human hearts, into human confusion, and sinfulness, and he takes it on at its deepest level, so that humanity worship God in spirit and truth. The various religious communities in India must be led to this Truth. Satyam meva Jayate. Therefore, Constitutional assurances are not enough. Violence out of religious-based hate cannot be condoned. Any assurance will be credible only when offenders are brought to book. The majority Right-Wing Hindus who are steeped in superstition, need education on harmony, peace, unity, mutual respect, dialogue and love. Ours will be a sustained struggle to overcome the evils and superstitions that the present government has ‘created’ for itself and for the citizens.

 

 

 

Will the Modi Government learn a lesson?

 

India’s second wave has surpassed all the past surges seen in other countries. The rise of the Corona storm is unlikely to slow down soon. Compared to other countries, its Indian ferocity is beyond measure. We need to think and act differently right from now on.

 The vertical climb of the COVID curve is proving that the states are hiding the real numbers of fatalities and infections. It is doubling by every two days. The “mismatch” in the official death-toll and the actual victims cremated on ground, show the latter overlaps the former by few times. The world media are looking closely to the causes of this abysmal situation in India with extreme concern, and are directly blaming the Modi government for its complacency.

 The mutation that has afflicted India may spread now across the oceans, and beyond Africa.

For the Government the priorities over the last 6 years were Ram Mandir, Jai Sree Ram, CAA, NRC, winning elections, buying MLAs, and not Oxygen, Hospital beds and Doctors. Recently, it had to do with winning over five states including Bengal. The Right Wing government ‘shall’ not learn lesson even when hit by a 3rd wave. It is pure incompetence and the negligence on the part of the dispensation not to heed to the advice of the experts. The Modi government is busy in bluffing the public to believe in myth than facts, in Ram Temple than in Remdesevir.  It is more desperate in winning Election than saving people’s lives.

 The world media in its criticism is blatantly blaming the Indian government – the cause of a systemic collapse. We have collectively failed to fight the Covid! There are wrong people in the governance.  The nature is reacting to the ‘Modi Yogi Amit alliance’, and it abhors their ideas.  We are facing the fury of the tughlak-ideology of the trio.

 The ideal cooperative federalism has failed, with the suppressing of the Covid cases both by the centre and the states. The centre does not believe in numbers, statistics and true figures. It believes in faking information and in suppressing the truth-being-told over the social media.

The holy waters of the Ganga or the cow-urine, will not protect the Covid victims.  But these irresponsible people will go on causing problems to mankind, through mismanagement mixed with vendetta politics.

 Nobody is supposed to know how the PM Care funds, national emergency relief funds are being used. There is no transparency whatsoever. The godhra-tainted image of Modi cannot be washed with his Covid-ridden blood-stained hands. We are enamoured by his cheap sensationalist brand of politics, pleated with “arrogance of power” and pride. Indians, kindly wake up to the reality of Modi now, before it is too late.

 Volunteers, like the Khalsa Help International and other NGOs are doing what government should be doing, i.e. buying oxygen and making them available to those in urgent need. The human suffering will multiply. In this scenario, to restore social trust and to rebuild the economy based on the experience on ground, is of utmost importance, than placing too much hope on Modi hubris. He desires only to build his personal brand further. Modi’s photograph on every vaccination certificate exposed the extent of his vanity. Additionally, the confrontational approach of Amit Shah and the rest of the Cabinet towards the Opposition has all the more divided the communities.

 Modi thinks it fit to defer to the core beliefs of Hindus. The BJP’s position on the Kumbh Mela this year is consistent with, its position on the Ram Mandir. They have turned ‘beliefs’ into facts. According to them, objective truth must bow before belief. Modi uses Hindu majoritarianism as means to an end.  The long hair and bearded ‘sage’ look puts Modi along with the saffroned Yogi in comparison and contrast, but with the common agenda – use religion as instrument to win the game that is being played so shrewdly. Authoritarian and totalitarian rule is arrived at through gradual, unsuspected steps of misrule. Then it reaches at the cross-road of decisive moment for change – an asal (true) paribartan that the people want. In the midst of economy’s downfall and a Covid’s surge, the BJP leaders are further getting back to Hindu basics. This poison of communalism is corroding the state, diving one faith-community against another, one ethnic group against the other.

They should have prepared for the worse than address mass election rallies and allow Hindus to gather at the Maha Kumbh. Complacency set in and we are now paying for it. The migrant and daily workers and small businesses, once again, will be hit the hardest.  The “vaccine hesitancy” has added to this dismal situation. It is in such crisis the ordinary people hold up the mirror to the rulers. The acts of charity of many, the groans of the bereaved, the angst of sons and daughters waiting to find a hospital bed for their dear dad, the oxygen-deprived death, the mourning for the dead and the consoling acts for those bereaved, they all become saving acts of love.

Nation is at war with a virus. Now is the time to put aside the partisan prejudices and jointly  work with ‘all’ politicians to win this ‘war’.  It make it all the more imperative for the Central government to be collaborative in its approach. Putting faith in federalism and through a conciliatory approach, we urgently need to promote trust and solidarity between citizens and across party lines.

This second wave of the pandemic had already begun to hit us hard. The hospitals are filling up and so are the cremation grounds. Hope, Modi and his alliance “learn to listen, and listen to learn”, and bring themselves to act in the interests not of one party or one religion, but for each citizen of India.