The Bits and Pieces – As I Please – 14

 

The Bits and Pieces – As I Please – 14

"Hindutva is the soul of India," RSS” -

RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale described the concept of Hindutva as the "Soul of Bharat" and said religious conversions can be checked through public awareness, social harmony and strict enforcement of laws, while, speaking in Indore on November 30. It has provoked me to write briefly on the subject; both the issues of Hindu Raj and
Conversion. First, the Hindu Raj – I presume that the RSS leader’s assertions that ‘Hindutva is the soul of India’ is fallacious, if we go by the stipulations of the Constitution of India which terms India that is Bharat a ‘Secular State’ in the Preamble of the Constitution itself. Let us not confuse the people of India by saying things which has no relevance, if we intend to keep India united and secure. There is no other way. What Babasaheb Ambedkar said even before our independence in 1947 is still relevant? He wrote in his book Thoughts on Pakistan,  “If Hindu Raj does become a fact, it will, no doubt, be the greatest calamity for this country. Hinduism is a menace to liberty, equality and fraternity. On that account it is incompatible with democracy. Hindu Raj must be prevented at any cost.”  He was against majoritarianism, which in the Indian context meant unbridled rule of the majority community. We need to take along the minority communities including Dalits on our journey to make India ‘Vikshit Bharat’ as visualized by PM Narendra Modi. Second, Conversion – Hosabole Sahib proposed ‘public awareness campaigns ("Dharm Jagaran"), social harmony initiatives, and stringent enforcement of anti-conversion laws as measures to stop conversions that have "wrong" intentions.’ Yes, conversion with wrong intensions is bad and we need to take social harmony initiatives to integrate the socially weaker sections with the main steam of the society. There cannot be two opinions on this. But do we do enough in this regard? The answer to this is a big NO, to my mind. RSS needs to come out of the lip service and take on the caste system head on. No one wants to change ones religion for the heck of it. One tends to remain what one gets by birth. There is a need to

have inner introspection first and transform the Hindu society to meet the challenges of the years to come. The conversions would automatically stop, to my mind. Let me add that I told this frankly to Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat Sahib in my meetings with him a couple of years ago at Jalandhar and Nagpur. I can’t say that he agreed with me or no but subsequently he honored me with an invitation to be a Guest of Honour at one f the annual rituals at the Headquarters of RSS at Nagpur which I accepted with pleasure. I thank Sarsanghchalak of RSS, Mohan Bhagwat ji for his magnanimity. I am a Hindu by birth and would remain so in spite of many counter thoughts to contend with.

Zara Dekh Uss Ko Jo Kuch Ho Raha Hai, Hone Wala Hai
Dhara Kya Hai Bhala Ehd-e-Kuhan Ki Dastnon Mein

(Pay attention to what is happening and what is going to happen
What good there is in repeating the tales of the old glories?)

Musings - Ambedkar and India’s National Life – Just off the calf it came to mind as how, of late, Babasaheb Ambedkar has stolen the thunder in every important national occasion throughout every successive year; be it PM’s address to the nation from the ramparts of Lal Kila (Red Fort) in August on Independence Day, Diksha Diwas (Embracing of Buddhism) in October, Constitution Day in November, Babasaheb’s Mahapartniban Diwas (Death anniversary in December), Mahamahim Presidents address to the nation on

Republic Day in January, Babasaheb’s Birthday in April, Buddhapurnima in May, inter alia, many more such events. It only shows that how much space Babasaheb Ambedkar and his legacy is occupying in the national life of India and rightly so. India is bound to become ‘Vikshit Bharat’ in the years to come if ‘We the people of India’ adhere to the sage and visionary thinking of the icon and also to the constitutional frame work provided by our forefathers led by Babasaheb Ambedkar. A cursory look at some of my engagements on December 6, Mahaparinirvan Diwas of Babasaheb Ambedkar would further justify what I have said – Invitation to Parliament House for Floral Tributes, Participation in the Panel Discussion on Jalandhar Doordarshan, Invitation to the Sardhanjali function at Jalandhar Ambedkar Bhawan. With these musings, I bow in Naman to one of the greatest sons of India.

Badi Mushkil Se Hota Hai Chaman Mein Didwar Paida

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks and Congratulations to GOI – Recognizing the importance of the Constitution Day

 

Thanks and Congratulations to GOI – Recognizing the importance of the Constitution Day

I again write today with regard to the Constitution Day though I wrote day before yesterday on the subject which may be excessed at: https://diplomatictitbits.blogspot.com/2025/11/constitution-day-november-26.html

I write this with a sense of gratitude to give thanks and congratulate the GOI under the stewardship of PM Narendra Modi for celebrating and observing the Constitution Day with all solemnity and dedication it deserved as our other National Days. My immediate motivation arose from the Social Media reports on all of our diplomatic missions
and posts throughout the world observing the Constitution Day in a befitting manner. It was also a matter of gratification that a statue of Babasaheb Ambedkar, Father of the Indian Constitution, was also unveiled at the UNESCO Headquarter in Paris (France). I will be

failing in my duty, if I don’t thank the MEA and EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar for taking right initiatives in this regard which would help in promoting India’s Cultural and Soft Diplomacy in the world at large. Though India’s main stream media has duly covered the official functions to observe the Day in which our top leadership including Mahamahim President of India, Vice President, PM, Speaker of the Lok Sabha, CJI, LOPs in the Parliament among others participated in the solemn functions at the Savidhan Bhawan (Parliament House) and Supreme Court of India yet I regret to add the main stream media tended to ignore the events in small and big
towns in the country and abroad, if my cursory observations are correct. On the other hand, it is again a matter of satisfaction, ever since GOI formally started to observe the Constitution Day in 2015; the Constitution Day has attracted the attention of the masses, if I simply go by the Social Media reports on the functions and events throughout India and beyond. It is a good sign as constitutional awareness and knowledge is bound to add to our efforts to strengthen our democratic and secular credentials which are the very edifice of India that is Bharat – Constitutional Governance with Constitutional Morality to make India a Vikshit Bharat in the years to come. I am

confident these developments to keep the Constitution of India at a high pedestal would send a right message to the vested and negative forces within the country that tend to undermine and negate the Constitutional framework of India so laboriously given to us by our forefathers led by Babasaheb Ambedkar. I participated in an event to observe the Constitution Day at a befitting function at Jalandhar Ambedkar Bhawan to join my fellow countrymen.

With this I come to another issue which requires immediate attention of PM Narendra Modi and EAM S. Jaishankar; April 14, birthday of Babasaheb Ambedkar, as the International Day of Equality under the aegis of UN. It is high time to open the cup-boards of MEA and PMO and consider this proposal which is resting with the GOI since June, 2015. I have been writing and reminding on the subject

regularly but so far GOI is blissfully silent. Many cities and provinces in the USA, Canada, the UK among others have, taking cue from the proposal on International Day of Equality with the help of outfits of Indian diaspora, have proclaimed April 14, birthday of the greatest son of India, Babasaheb Ambedkar, as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Day of Equality locally.  I take this opportunity again to humbly remind the GOI to wake up and not only honour the Indian icon but also add yet another feather to the Cultural and Soft Diplomacy of India in line with the International Day of Non-violence - October 2, birthday of Mahatma Gandhi and International Day of Yoga; Indian Mantra of physical and mental well-being. My last letter in this regard may be perused at: https://diplomatictitbits.blogspot.com/2025/08/international-day-of-equality-honouring.html

I recall a poetic assertion of Alama Iqbal to recognize the rising profile of Babasaheb Ambedkar in view of is increasing space globally –

Uthaye Kuch Waraq Lale Ne, Kuch Nargis Ne, Kuch Gul Ne
Chaman Mein Har Taraf Bikhri Huwi Hai Dastan Meri

(Some leaves were picked up by the tulip, some by the narcissus, some by the rose
My story is scattered around everywhere in the garden)

Urha Li Qumriyon Ne, Tootiyon Ne, Andleebon Ne
Chaman Walon Ne Mil Kar Loot Li Tarz-e-Faghan Meri

(The turtle‐doves, parrots, and nightingales pilfered away
The garden’s denizens jointly robbed away my plaintive way)

 

 

Constitution Day, November 26

 

Constitution Day, November 26

‘We the people of India’ are celebrating and observing Constitution Day on November 26 as we gave the Constitution of India to ourselves after duly enacting and adopting it in the Constituent Assembly in 1949. It is a matter of satisfaction to note that GOI under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi duly recognized the importance of the Day and started observing it officially beginning 2015 and rightly so. I wrote on the subject in my earlier blogs too. With the fast changing socio-political scenario in the country, it

becomes all the more important not only to know and understand the Constitution of India but also imbibe the spirit behind it and also the motivation and dedication of our forefathers; especially Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in making this wonderful document to govern ourselves as a progressive and civilized nation. In the last 75 years, it has been amply proved that India is India only because of the Constitution of India. If we intend to transform India into Bharat, as visualized by the makers of the Constitution, we need to stand and defend, preserve and adhere to the core values of our Constitution – Democracy and Secularism based on the cardinal tenants of – Justice, Equality, Liberty and Fraternity.

India is a large country with big problems. In the process of making India a great country, we have come a long way and, perhaps, have arrived but are to go a long way ahead to reach. We Indians and also our political leadership must understand thus; sooner the better. Though, it seems, we are on track yet there are challenges and too big to remain on track. We can remain so if we adhere to the ‘constitutional methods’, as warned by the Father of our Constitution, Babasaheb Ambedkar, in governance by the elected representatives and conduct of the citizenry. He further warned that we would be ushering the country into ’Grammar of Anarchy’ and put our hard earned independence into disarray, if we  do not conduct ourselves with ‘Gyan – Knowledge’ and Sheel – Morality and Steadfastness’ that is ‘Gyan-Sheelta’.

Let us not put the real problematic issues under the carpet and shut our eyes to camouflage the alleged hidden agenda of changing the Constitution of the right wing Hindutava elements spear headed by RSS and its affiliates. Though both RSS and the BJP have made it clear openly several times that they fully abide by the Constitution of India and would keep doing so. But still, the lingering doubts, in this regard remain both in the opposition political circles and also in the minds of the masses. It is a dangerous situation which is not conducive to the health of our democratic polity and secular society. RSS and BJP and also their cadres and supporters put these doubts to rest with political will and vigour while we observe Constitution Day. Our Constitution has passed the test of time. Let us pledge ourselves to defend and preserve it on our path to further success and prosperity as visualized by our fore-fathers. Let us prove ourselves

and make success of our Constitution as Babasaheb Ambedkar expected us to so when he said, “However good a Constitution may be, if those who are implementing it are not good, it will prove to be bad. However bad a Constitution may be, if those implementing it are good, it will prove to be good.” As a humble but awakened citizen f India, I have a couple of suggestions to make on this important Day; Constitution Day, November 26.

·      Incorporate study of the Constitution of India in the school/college and university curricula appropriately including the important speeches of Babasaheb Ambedkar; particularly the one he made on November 25, 1949 in the Constituent Assembly, his last speech before the Constitution was finally passed and adopted and the important speeches and interventions made by the leaders like  Rajendra Prasad, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel, K.M. Munshi, Syama Prasad Mukherjee, Abul Kalam Azad among others.

·       Inculcate in the political leadership and top bureaucracy sense of ‘constitutional morality’ in the thinking and functioning of our ruling elites over and above the ‘political expediency’ as advised by Babasaheb Ambedkar in his epoch making last speech in the Constituent Assembly on November. Referring to the history as to how did we lost our freedom, he said “Will history repeat itself? It is this thought which fills me with anxiety. This anxiety is deepened by the realization of the fact that in addition to our old enemies in the form of castes and creeds .we are going to have many political parties with diverse and opposing political creeds. Will Indian place the country above their creed or will they place creed above country? I do not know. But this much is certain that if the parties place creed

above country, our independence will be put in jeopardy a second time and probably be lost forever. This eventuality we must all resolutely guard against. We must be determined to defend our independence with the last drop of our blood.(Cheers.) ” New CJI, Justice Surya Kant has rightly underlined the lofty ideal of ‘Constitutional morality’ after taking oath of office on November 24. He said,” The Constitution, he said, was the moral compass of the nation and must continue to guide judicial interpretation even as society evolved.”

·      Discard ‘Hero worship’ in politics as it paves the way to ‘Dictatorship’ as advised by Babasaheb Ambedkar.

·      Stop denigrating forthwith Babasaheb Ambedkar and the Constitution made by him as have been noticed in the Social Media, of late; particularly with regard to the making of the Constitution. Some ‘Andh Bhagats’ and ‘WhatsApp Scholars’ credit B.N. Rau as the Architect of the Constitution instead of Babasaheb Ambedkar. What do they want to prove; one does not know? Why I have listed this trivial but highly objectionable point? It has been observed that some of the known and prominent cadres and volunteers of RSS and BJP are, unfortunately and mischievously, resorting to this biased and hateful agenda. I have not seen RSS and BJP discouraging and condemning this uncalled for and nefarious activity by the divisive and dangerous forces. It may be added that Babasaheb himself duly appreciated the role and contribution of B. N. Rau as an Advisor to

the Constituent Assembly.

·      Constitution Day-November 26 is an important National Day of India and should be observed as such. Don’t try to make it a Day to be observed by the Ambedkarites and the Dalits at large. Constitution is an instrument which would be paving our path which would lead us to become a ‘developed country – Vikshit Bharat’ in the years to come as visualized by PM Narendra Modi.

Greetings to my fellow countrymen on the Constitution Day.

Uthaye Kuch Waraq Lale Ne, Kuch Nargis Ne, Kuch Gul Ne
Chaman Mein Har Taraf Bikhri Huwi Hai Dastan Meri

(Some leaves were picked up by the tulip, some by the narcissus, some by the rose
My story is scattered around everywhere in the garden)

Urha Li Qumriyon Ne, Tootiyon Ne, Andleebon Ne
Chaman Walon Ne Mil Kar Loot Li Tarz-e-Faghan Meri

(The turtle‐doves, parrots, and nightingales pilfered away
The garden’s denizens jointly robbed away my plaintive way)

 

 

 

The Bits and Pieces – As I Please – 13

 

The Bits and Pieces – As I Please – 13

CJI B.R. Gavai on Reservations for SCs and STs – Before his retirement from the coveted position of the CJI on November 23, CJI B. R. Gavai supported the issue of withdrawal of Reservation facilities to the so called ‘creamy layer’ among the SCs and STs. Earlier al, he supported ‘sub-quota within quota’ that ‘reservation

within reservation’. Both the issues are currently topical and important both politically and socially with regard to the ongoing debate on the need and relevance of Reservations to the socially marginalized sections of the society called Dalits in general and SCs and STs in official parlance. The views of CJI Gavai, himself a Dalit, have given fresh lease to the debate on Reservations. The opponents of Reservations are falling on each other to support the opinion of CJI Gavai and on the other hand the proponents of Reservations are miffed with the assertions made by an eminent Dalit. The views of CJI Gavai cannot be negated, prima facie as first, Reservations is not a permanent provision but is transitory affirmative action by the polity and the society to bring about an ‘equitable social order’ and second, it is also true that graded inequality also prevail among the Dalits i.e. SCs and STs as in the Hindu society at large. In principle, I would tend to consider the views of CJI Gavai. But the larger question remains to be answered. Has the affirmative actions to empower the socially weaker sections have out lived its need? The answer would definitely be a big No. The people like Ambedkar, Jagjivan Ram, K.R. Narayanan, Ram Nath Kovind, K.G. Balakrishan and even CJI Gavai himself and other eminent Dalits are still Dalits. And it would remain so, it seems, for a long time to come as the watch dogs of social status  quo, the likes of Anil Mishras and Rakesh Kishores are still around

who unfortunately get backing from the Thekedars of Manuwad.  Babasaheb Ambedkar is rebuked and maligned everyday even today. CJI Gavai himself was singled out to insult him in the Supreme Court by hurdling of shoes at his face. The idea of Reservations was never a poverty eluviation programme but social empowerment intent. The vested interests have already succeeded in providing for 10% reservation for the so called EWS. The so called creamy layer is a fallacy otherwise how come people like IPS Y. Puran Kumar Kumar would not have ended his life in disgust of caste based discrimination and unsocial treatment. We are still to go a long way. Dalits are no more interested in remaining second rate citizens on peanuts of Reservations.

White Collar Terrorism – Doctors of Terror

Terrorism in all its manifestations is a very negation of a civilized and democratic society; especially when it is afflicted on the pretext of religion. Earlier it was felt that the vested interests and enemies of the society tended to exploit poor and deprived segments of the society by motivating, training and using them for terrorist activities against the State and the society at large. Then came the phase of so

called ‘Urban Naxals’, intellectuals and educated persons who allegedly indulged in extremist and militant methods as their means to achieve the ends. The recently detected cases of terrorist activists has thrown a new challenge which needs immediate and fast attention to save the very edifice of secular and democratic set up of India and also to safe-guard integrity and national security of the country. The recent case of suicide bombing at the Red Fort in Delhi involving a well nit and oiled pan-India network of educated Doctors – Doctors of Terror needs to be studied and checked forthwith before we put our country into jeopardy. Why the highly educated and well placed professionals belonging to one community have chosen to go on the path of destruction and crime against the society? Have we failed to accommodate our largest minority in the main stream of the country? We are to sit and introspect and find answers to these questions. No country and society can afford to neglect and down-size a huge chunk of more than 250 million people comprising of around 20% of our total population. We are to live with harmony and fraternity with secular approach and PM Narendra Modi’s slogan – Sab Ka Sath, Sab Ka Vikas and Sab Ka Visvash.  Without elaborating it further, I quote from a recent piece of Julio Rebeiro appeared in the Tribune the

other day which says what I wanted to say, “Distrust between Hindus and Muslims has existed for centuries, and I dare say the animosity will not disappear in a hurry. But a modus vivendi has to be worked out for the simple reason that even a muscular regime cannot just wish away 15 per cent (Muslims) of India’s population. Lynching, bulldozer justice, allegations of love jihad — all this has to stop.”

 

 

RSS – It has come a full circle

RSS – It has come a full circle

 RSS, in its centenary year 1925 – 2025 has come full circle. The speeches of RSS Elite, including Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat, have set the ball in motion setting the agenda of the New India that is Bharat. Will it turn out to be good or bad? It is hard to say at this juncture as the ideas being floated, in the guise or pretext of traditional wisdom of India as enshrined and stipulated in the ancient Hindu texts, are too controversial which tend to create confusion, to my mind, rather than putting the things in perspective conforming to cardinal principles of the Constitution of India. RSS pretends to be a non-political organization but the ground reality presents something else. The GOI under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi in Delhi does not leave things unsaid and fully back the agenda of its mentors in Nagpur, RSS. Obviously, these loud pronouncements both of the RSS and the GOI, according the political and socio-cultural circles, tend to create doubts and misgivings in the minds of ‘We the people of India’ about the real motivations with regard to the ‘secular, democratic’ edifice of the country and the lofty agenda of ‘Samrasta’ which is propended by RSS with a view to reform the Hindu society and integrate the so-

called dalits, the untouchables which are placed outside the Chatur-Varna Dharma of Manu. I have been a votary of ‘Equitable Social Order’ and the ‘Samrasta Agenda’ of RSS as a born Hindu. I stand for an inclusive and integrated Hindu society under constitutional norms of Constitution of India but not the principles ‘Graded Inequality’ of the Hindu Shastras. As a well-meaning Bhartiya, I list here a couple of inputs which RSS should consider in its centenary year, if they are serious to serve, preserve and save India and transform its socio-cultural order. I write this not as an intellectual or an analyst but as an ordinary citizen –

·     -  Profess and strengthen secular and democratic credentials of the Constitution of India without any reservations and ‘ifs and buts,  without explanatory assertions, in terms of the so called ancient values, which tend to create confusion and doubts in the mind and psyche of the masses belonging particularly to the minority communities and socially weaker sections of the society.

·      Recognize, with due respect and accommodation, minority communities particularly Muslims, if we want to ward off the dangerous of any ‘Na-Pakistan’ to happen again. No one can afford to keep 20% of the population (Muslims) of our country disgruntled and segregated.

·      Hindus society is required to be reformed and transformed to integrate about 25% of the population (SCs and STs) with the main stream of the society as intended in the Samrasta Agenda of RSS. But mere lip service would not do. RSS should take the lead to shed the past, the so called traditional values enshrined in the texts like Manusmiriti. RSS would have to make its stand and thought clear in this regard. There is no harm in doing so: the sooner the better. Why dalits should convert to Islam and Christianity if they get their due space and respect in the Hindu fold in which they were born? I firmly believe that generally one remains in the faith in which one born is born. Conversion is an aberration. No one, I am sorry to say, including Mahatma Gandhi took serious note of the caste system of the Hindus which is a bane of the society at large. RSS should come forward whole heartedly to eradicate caste. The Hindu society would automatically become healthy.

·      How can we do this? My humble suggestions are – Reserve 20% vacancies of Safai Karamcharies (Menial work) for caste Hindus and even Muslims – Encourage inter-caste and even inter-religion marriages by providing for suitable government jobs to one of

spouses – Reserve seats for dalits in RSS run schools and colleges not only for students but also for the teaching faculties – Mandir Purohits/Pujaries should be appointed not on the basis of birth but on the basis of training and education and alsopassing of examinations. These are some of the basic things which may be considered and the Samrasta Agenda should be taken forward.

·      The last but not the least discourage and stop the alleged RSS/BJP cadres from willfully denigrating and undermining role and legacy of Babasaheb Ambedkar, if one goes by the social media, particularly with regard to his status as father of the Indian Constitution. The Andh-Bhagats are beating the drum of B.N. Rau which is not only shameful but immoral. Make RSS’s position clear and loud on Reservations for SCs and STs by reiterating it clearly and advise the alleged Swayamsewaks to desist from spreading falsehoods and half-truths.

I have no doubt in my mind that RSS is a strong and well managed outfit which is here to stay and we are to live with it. I as a non-conformist Hindu wish to see a reformed and transformed Indian society in which ‘We the people of India’ – an inclusive society- live in complete peace and harmony to our mutual advantage and benefit. Many of my friends and readers both in the RSS/BJP circles and also in the opposite camps may not like what I have said. But I say this with conviction for the larger good. With a view to list my state of mind, I quote from Allama Iqbal -

Hawaida  Aaj Apne Zakhm-e-Pinhan Kar Ke Chorun Ga
Lahoo Ro Ro Ke Mehfil Ko Gulistan Kar Ke Chorun Ga

(I will surely exhibit all my hidden wounds today
I will surely change assembly to a garden with blood‐mixed tears)

Jalana Hai Mujhe Har Shama-e-Dil Ko Souz-e-Pinhan Se
Teri Tareek Raaton Mein Charaghan Kar Ke Chorun Ga

(I have to light every heart’s candle with hidden pathos
I will surely create bright illumination in your darkness)

Parona Aik Hi Tasbeeh Mein In Bikhare Danon Ko
Jo Muskhil Hai, To Iss Mushkil Ki Asan Kar Ke Chorun Ga

(If stringing these scattered pearls in a single rosary
Is difficult, I will surely make this difficult task easy)

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Bits and Pieces – As I Please – 12

 

The Bits and Pieces – As I Please – 12

Ekta Diwas – October 31 - National Unity Day (राष्ट्रीय एकता दिवस) is celebrated in India on 31 October. It was introduced by the in 2014 by the Government of PM Narendra Modi. The day is celebrated to mark the birth anniversary of Vallabhbhai Patel who had a major role in the political integration of India. The official statement for National Unity Day by the Home Ministry of India cites that the National Unity Day "will provide an opportunity to re-affirm the inherent strength and resilience of our

nation to withstand the actual and potential threats to the unity, integrity, and security of our country." We take a pledge, just as a routine ritual, which reads like this “I solemnly pledge that I dedicate myself to preserving the unity, integrity, and security of the nation and also strive hard to spread this message among my fellow countrymen. I take this pledge in the spirit of the unification of my country which was made possible by the vision and actions of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. I also solemnly resolve to make my own contribution to ensure the internal security of my country.”

Sardar Patel was a great leader of India. There are no two opinions about this. The objectives of the National Unity Day are lofty and important for the very existence of India that is Bharat. But the sad aspect of all this is that those who did not like or own Sardar Patel because of his stern views and actions on communal outfits are playing divisive politics criticizing PM Jawaharlal Nehru and Congress Party exactly working against the very ideals of ‘preserving the unity, integrity and security of the nation’, to my mind. These political stunts on these important National Days must stop forthwith, if we are really interested in remembering great leaders like Sardar Patel.

Yet another sad aspect of the day is – PM Indira Gandhi was also murdered on 31 October 1984. She was assassinated by two of her bodyguards, both of whom were Sikh fundamentalists seeking retribution for the events at the Golden Temple in Amritsar in June of that fateful year. Indira Gandhi was a leader of our country and beyond by her own right. She also stood for, like Sardar Patel, unity, integrity and security of the country. It seems GOI has totally ignored her and negated her sacrifice for the very lofty

ideals of the National Unity Day. It is very unfortunate. On the other hand, the culprits of the dastardly and barbaric riots targeting the Sikh community in Delhi and elsewhere in the wake of Indira Gandhi’s assassination could not be brought to book to the satisfaction of the affected families of innocent Sikhs and the Sikh community at large by any of the Administrations after these sordid and heart ranching incidents. It was undoubtedly an uncalled for and highly condemnable retribution by the hardcore majority Hindu community against the hapless and innocent Sikh minority. Unfortunately, the political vested interests projected these inhuman any bastardly, I am sorry to use this uncivilized word, incidents as the doing of the Congress leaders to avenge Indira Gandhi’s murder. It amounted to willful twisting of the facts by the vested interests. Most of us are not ready to call spade a spade because of the ill-conceived notion of so called communal unity. The Sikh community must get justice for the riots of 1984 under law of the land. Why Indira Gandhi, a nationalist of the highest order, should be ignored, on her Punia Teethi, October 31 – Martyrdom; which we celebrate as the National Unity Day? Is it not hypocrisy? While I greet my fellow Indians on the National Unity Day, the birth day of Sardar Patel, I also remember, with reverence, Indira Gandhi, the worthy daughter of India.

Mera Rona Nahi, Rona Hai Ye Sare Gulistan Ka
Woh Gul Hon Main, Khazan Har Gul Ki Hai Goya Khazan Meri

(This is not only my wailing, but is that of the entire garden
I am a rose, to me every rose’ autumn is my autumn)

 

Hindutava Agenda – Subtly at Work   - The other day, GOI has released its draft National Labour Policy, 2025 – Rashtriya Sharam Shakti Nitii, 2025. It hails Manusmriti. A story in the Tribune of October 30 says that Manusmriti has once again entered the political battlefield, this time through the Centre’s draft Labour Policy 2025, which claims that the ancient text “embeds the moral basis of labour governance within India’s

civilisational fabric, centuries before the rise of modern labour law.” But the Opposition
has sharply objected to the government’s invocation of Manusmriti, a text long criticised for its caste-based hierarchy and exclusionary codes. The Congress leaders accused the Modi government of seeking to “replace constitutional morality with the Manusmriti’s moral order”. This return to the principles of the Manusmriti is in keeping with the RSS’s most cherished traditions. It had attacked the Constitution soon after it was adopted - on the grounds that it did not derive inspiration from the ideals and values of Manu as embodied in the Manusmriti,” posted Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on X. The new draft National Labour & Employment Policy includes elements identified by critics as Hindutva-inspired, particularly its framing of work as a "sacred and moral duty" based on ancient Hindu texts like the Manusmriti and Arthashastra. Critics argue this approach, which uses terms like "dharma" and "rajdharma," ignores modern concepts of workers' rights, fair wages, and safety and could reinforce a caste-based hierarchy by downplaying the need for legal protections in favor of a moral/religious framework, as reported by The Wire and The Telegraph. 

Earlier the National Education Policy, 2020, identified potential Hindutava Elements through its emphasis on "civilisational values," promotion of Sanskrit, inclusion of philosophical concepts like those found in the Bhagavad Gita, and a nationalist narrative. While proponents frame these as fostering holistic development and traditional values, critics argue it promotes a Hindu-centric curriculum that could downplay secularism and India's multicultural history. 

The Hindutava agenda of the GOI, it seems, is subtly a work. It is a matter of concern and worry as the Hindu text like Manusmriti and Ram Charit Manas are the votaries of Chatur-Varna Vivastha from which the graded inequality flows and these denigrate the women folk. The so called division of labour in the Varan Vivastha emanates not from the skill or knowledge but from birth. Where are we heading? It is a matter to ponder over.  

तुम्हारी तहज़ीब अपने ख़ंजर से आप ही ख़ुद-कुशी करेगी

जो शाख़-ए-नाज़ुक पे आशियाना बनेगा ना-पाएदार होगा

 

 

The Bits and Pieces – As I Please – 11

 

The Bits and Pieces – As I Please – 11

October 27, 1951 – Ambedkar Visited Jalandhar

 It was an historic day in the history of Bootan Mandi, my native place in Jalandhar when Babasaheb Ambedkar visited Jalandhar. The day is commemorated with fond memories every successive year at the site where now Ambedkar Bhawan stands at Nakodar Road. Thoughtfully, Ambedkar Bhawan’s Managing Committee observes the day, with a sense of public service, by arranging a Free Medical Camp for the benefit of the residents of the area. This year a Free Eye Checkup and Follow up was hosted in cooperation with National Eye Care Hospital of Dr. Piyush Sood and Bibi Mohinder Rattu of the UK, a staunch Ambedkarite. I myself took advantage and got my eyes checked instantly. It was a matter of satisfaction to note that a large number of men and women visited the camp to their satisfaction. It is an appreciable activity as a tribute to the greatest son of India in the contemporary times, Babasaheb Ambedkar. I take this opportunity to congratulate and thank Ambedkar Bhawan Trust and sponsors of the Free Eye Camp, Dr. Piyush Sood and Bibi Mohinder Rattu.

As regards the visit of Babasaheb in 1951, the poetic words of Gurdass Ram Alam starts echoing in my ears which he recited at the mammoth public rally – Bada Shor Painda Gariba De Dere; Aj Kaun Aya Savere Savere. Babasaheb Ambedkar delivered two important speeches during the visit which are still relevant for the polity and society of India that is Bharat – i) While speaking at the Political Rally of All India Scheduled Caste Federation at Bootan Mandi on October 27, he urged the SC communities to stand united

and ‘emphasized the need for the Dalit community to become united and self-reliant, stating that they should not have to depend on his constant presence for their upliftment. He asked the community to stand on their own legs.’ and ii) in his address to the students of Jalandhar D.A.V. College on Parliamentary Democracy in India on October28; while listing the essentials of Parliamentary Democracy he said, “What about free and fair elections? We must not lose sight of the fact that Big Business is trying to play a great part in the political life of this country. The amount that is being contributed to Congress on behalf of Big Business is a very dangerous thing. If moneyed people try to influence the elections by contributing to the election fund of any political party, what will be the result? If the party which they have supported financially comes into power, they will try to extract concessions for themselves either by modifying the present legislation or by influencing the party in power to legislate in such a manner as would be beneficial to their interests. I ask you, gentlemen, whether under these circumstances there is any hope left for the Parliamentary system of Government to do any good to the country. I would like to refer to the Mahabharata. During the battle between the Pandvas and the Kaurvas, Bhishma and Drona were on the side of the Kaurvas. The Pandvas were in the right and the Kaurvas were in the wrong. Bhishma admitted this. When somebody asked Bhishma as to why he was supporting the Kaurvas if he found the Pandvas to be in the right. Bhishma replied in the memorable sentence. I must be loyal to the salt if I eat the food of the Kaurvas. I must take their side even if they might be in the wrong.” Perhaps these visionary thoughts of Babasaheb worked as a guiding force in the Supreme Court’s recent  rejection of the ‘Election Bonds’ scheme of the GOI. Ambedkar is as relevant today as it was before –

Uthaye Kuch Waraq Lale Ne, Kuch Nargis Ne, Kuch Gul Ne
Chaman Mein Har Taraf Bikhri Huwi Hai Dastan Meri

(Some leaves were picked up by the tulip, some by the narcissus, some by the rose
My story is scattered around everywhere in the garden)

 

Urha Li Qumriyon Ne, Tootiyon Ne, Andleebon Ne
Chaman Walon Ne Mil Kar Loot Li Tarz-e-Faghan Meri

(The turtle‐doves, parrots, and nightingales pilfered away
The garden’s denizens jointly robbed away my plaintive way)

 

Quote – Unquote – India & UN

“On October 24, the United Nations reached the milestone of 80 years even as it faces an uphill task in this increasingly difficult world. The core UN Charter blueprint has been eroded, as seen in conflicts raging around the world, writes Bharat H Desai, Professor of international law at the University of Bonn, Germany, in his Op-Ed piece 80 years on, UN remains humanity’s best hope. But without the historic battles fought in the UNGA, the elimination of apartheid and the liberation of colonies would not have been possible, that is why the UN matters, he writes. The founding members of the UN like India, which is aspiring for a rightful seat on the UNSC’s horse-shoe table, must stand by the UN in its hour of existential crisis.”

Chandani Chandel in the Tribune of October 26

 

The Bits and Pieces – As I Please – 10

The Bits and Pieces – As I Please – 10

Jinhe Naaz Hai Hind Pe Woh Kahan Hain? – I wrote about focused propaganda to undermine Babasaheb Ambedkar in my last blog. That smear campaign is on by the likes of Advocate Anil Misra and supported by ill-advised and anti-social elements in the main stream of the society. It is unfortunate that the Thekedars of the Hindu society are blissfully silent and doing nothing to stop this

frenzy. It is time for those who talk of so called ‘Samrasta’ to sit and think as to how to address this immoral and anti-social activity. Why have I picked this subject again? There are a couple of immediate provocations after the sordid saga of CJI B. R. Gavai and IPS Y. Puran Kumar. Today, October 22, I have come across two incidents which lowered my head as a civilized citizen of India – i) Somewhere a dalit was made to lick his own urine allegedly on his caste count and ii) in some park or a public place Muslims conducted Namaz and the caste Hindus got perturbed and washed the place with the cow urine for Shudi of the desecrated site. Where are we heading? On this path, we cannot make India that is Bharat a Vikshit Bharat but it is a sure way to harm India and its integrity. I recall the lines of a famous song of Sahir Ludhianvi –

कहां हैं, कहां है, मुहाफ़िज़ ख़ुदी के
जिन्हें नाज़ है हिन्द पर वो कहां हैं

 

Lokpal of India – The office of Lokpal, a statutory authority, is in the news for wrong reasons, it seems.  Lokpal is an anti-corruption authority or body of ombudsman who represents the public interest in India which was established in 2013 by an act of parliament. Before this the basic law to check corruption was the Prevention of

Corruption Act, 1988. There is no explicit provision in the constitution to deal with corruption except some provisions in the Principles of State Policy to establish the framework for a welfare state and set principles of good governance. The directive principles of state policy emphasize the importance of public service and the welfare of the people, which indirectly serve as a moral compass against corruption. The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) are government bodies that investigate corruption cases against public officials. Lokpal is a new Avatar which came into being after the campaigns of Anna Hazare, Baba Ramdev, Arvind Kejriwal among others in the early years of 2010s; precisely onwards of 2014, PM Narendra Modi’s dispensation. As of now it has been observed that Lokpal gas become Jokepal where retired judges and senior bureaucrats are parked at government expenses to reward them for cooperation and liaison with the ruling outfits. It is general perception in the general public as out of "8,703 complaints. Only 24 probes. 6 prosecution sanctions” have been handled by the so clled ‘anti-corruption watchdog as stated by Dr. Manu Singhvi  Lokpal is currently in the news for purchasing  seven luxury cars for the Lokpals at a starring cost of 5 crore each out of its Annual budget of Rs. 44.32 crore. Dr. Singhvi added, “If this is our anti-corruption

watchdog, it's more poodle than panther!" MP Priyanka Chaturvedi also lashed out at Lokpal on X, stating, "Gazab ka Jokepal at Indian taxpayers expense. Oh BMW what happened to Swadesi call by GoI?" She has a point when PM Narendra Modi pitches for Swadeshi – Vocal for Local. Is it only a slogan? I think it is time to immediately stop all imports of luxury cars for public figures and government functionaries. Our home grown brands of cars/vehicles are equally good. There is no need to import luxury cars even on the pretext of security. I hope somebody listens.

मस्जिद तो बना दी शब भर में ईमाँ की हरारत वालों ने

मन अपना पुराना पापी है बरसों में नमाज़ी बन न सका

इक़बाल बड़ा उपदेशक है, मन बातों में मोह लेता है
गुफ़्तार का ग़ाज़ी बन तो गया, किरदार का ग़ाज़ी बन न सका