The Bits and Pieces – As I Please – 15

 

The Bits and Pieces – As I Please – 15

Naman to PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee – Today, December 25, is the birthday of the Statesman PM of India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee. I thought of remembering the great leader in my blog as Naman to the worthy leader with whom I have had the good fortune to work and interact during my diplomatic service. Beyond his qualities of head and heart, I was most impressed by his unpretentious demeanour and

sense of simplicity. My first encounter with Vajpayee Sahib happened in April, 1977 when I escorted him to the Conference Room of the PMO for the first meeting of the Morarji Deai Government as Protocol Officer in PMO/MEA.  My immediate boss, Vimla Sindhi popularly called Behanji, a longtime aide of Nehru/Gandhi family, was known to Vajpayee Sahib. She received him outside the Conference Room and said Sir, shall I salute you with Pranaam or Namskar to register her earlier acquaintances. Vajpayee in his charming response said that ‘Kuch bhi kaho; ashiya hum sab jaante hain’ (You may utter anything, I understand the subtle gesture). Later, I met Vajpayee Sahib, in Peking (Beijing) in China when he visited in 1978-79 as EAM. He came to the Embassy to meet the staff over Tea and Snacks. I was looking after the hospitality part of the function. Offering some Pakoras to him, I said, ‘Sir Garam Garam lijiye’ (Please have some hot ones). He touched the Pakoras and spontaneously retorted ‘Agar yeh garam hai hai to thanda kya hota hai’ (If that was hot then what was cold). We all smiled and took the subtle wit in our stride. I have many more anecdotes to narrate which show his ground to earth wit and wisdom to put juniors like me at ease. I will share those at some other opportunity.PM Vajpayee was a not only a Statesman but also a great human being. Naman to one of my favourite PMs of India, Atal Bihar Vajpayee

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)

Upward Social Mobility – Incidentally, of late, I noticed some trends in the social circles of the marginalized sections of the society generally called Dalits which may be termed as gratifying but on the other hand somewhat worrying to the extent of undesirable. I thought of sharing here my off the cuff thoughts on the emerging social scenario without caring for the fact as to what worth these may carry.

If I go by the social media, it has become normal for the Dalit youth to assert their Dalit Identity – Chamaran, Balmikian Te Mazhvian De Munde – Sons of Chamars, Balmikis and Mazhvi Sikhs in exact retaliation of the so called Jat Pride often repeated by the rustic but well to do Sikhs. My immediate motivation to write on this emanated from some social functions like marriage or any other celebratory occasion and also visible power paraphernalia being subscribed by the spiritual leaders and Deras of the community. On one hand, I feel that the marginalized segments of the society are passing through a phase of ‘Identity Crises’ and on the other a sense ‘empowerment’ coming about slowly but steadily. Of late, it has been observed that marriages and other celebratory occasions are celebrated with much fan fair and show off with elaborated menus for lunches and dinners served with premier scotch whiskies on the beats of dance and songs. Even the Bhog (Antim Ardas) ceremonies on deaths are done with elaborated menus of food. I have observed, during my decades long career in diplomacy when I saw different societies and cultures, that when society opens up with empowerment and economic prosperity and also from the clutches of the ideological governance; vices crept in first before it gets moderated.  The community that is the so called Dalits should not be oblivious of the negative fallout of the ‘upward social mobility’ and try to understand the virtues of balance and sobriety.

Nazren Chahe Aasmaan Per Hon

Magar Paon Zamin Per Rakhiye

 

My Fellow BootanMandian – Ustad Puran Shahkoti

My Fellow BootanMandian – Ustad Puran Shahkoti

Ustad Puran Shah Koti, a legendry Sufi and Folk singer, composer and musician passed away on December 22 at the age of 72. I write this to pay my Naman and Tributes to the Ustad as my fellow BootanMandian. Many people may not know his association and living in the Shanties (Jhuggies) of Marasis (Mirs of the composite culture of Punjab) of Bootan Mandi in Jalandhar, my native place. I vividly recall his father Nanju Ram and Puran visiting houses in the neighbourhood singing folk and Sufi songs and regaling, by the art of Naklan (light hearted narration to make people laugh), the residents around on occasions of ceremony like marriages, birth and other such
celebrations. The then Seths of Bootan Mandi in 1960s would make them sit and enjoy their impromptu songs. Puran Shahkoti became Ustad of Song and Music from this humble origin. It should be a matter of pride not for us, the BootanMandians but also the entire community.  But I am sorry to say that the so called Seths of Bootan Mandi never recognized this ground reality and consciously or sub-consciously refused to own Ustad Puran Shahkoti and Bibi Nooran, yet another Ruby (Hira) of Sufi tradition who also belonged to my native place, Bootan Mandi. The reason is obvious; the graded social inequality against which we shout daily from the roof tops. We shall ponder upon this to set the matter in its right perspective. Before writing this tribute to Ustad Puran Shahkoti, with a view to be correct, I checked he facts from my brother, Paramjit Mahey as he has been involved in the socio-cultural life of Bootan Mandi closely. I wrote about Puran Shah Koti and Bibi Nooran in my blogs earlier too which mat accessed at: https://diplomatictitbits.blogspot.com/2015/11/bootan-mandi-its-artistic-heritage.html

As regards the huge contribution of Ustad Puran Shahkoti to the rich legacy of song and music of Punjab and beyond, I don’t have much to write as I am no expert on the subject. Ustad called himself a ‘nomadic singer’. The renowned singers of Punjab like Hans Raj Hans, Jasbir Jassi and the scion of Puran Shahkoti’s family, Master Salim proudly say and own Puran Shahkoti as their Ustad and Guru and rightly so. It is a matter of satisfaction that the authorities of the time; including Giani Zail Singh among others duly recognized and honoured Ustad Puran Singh and provided them dignified living from the Shanties to Houses in the peripheral localities. Later Ustad Puran Shahkoti was conferred with Padam Shri, one of the highest civilian awards of India by the Mahamahim, President of India some years ago. I close this obituary blog with the Gurvani of Guru Ravidass – Nichon Unch Kare Mera Gobind; Kahu Te Na Dare.

Badi Muskil Se Hota Hai Chaman Mein Didawar Paida

National Conference – Changing Scenario of Punjab due Emigration: Socio-Economic and Cultural perspectives

 

National Conference – Changing Scenario of Punjab due Emigration: Socio-Economic and Cultural perspectives

Institute of Inclusive Policy and Governance (IIPG) associated with Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini hosted a National Conference on Changing Scenario of Punjab due Emigration: Socio-Economic and Cultural perspectives on December 18 at Jalandhar. IIPG is a Think Tank, subscribing to the educational agenda of RSS, to undertake study and research of matters of interest and concern to the country and the society at large particularly with regard to socio-economic and cultural issues. The Conference on Emigration from

Punjab was one such activity after successful conduct of Discussion on Punjab’s Agriculture Draft Policy, 2023 – Inclusive Agriculture Policy Reforms in Punjab: Pathways to Growth, Equity and Sustainability and Punjab’s Health Transformation: From Grain Bowl to Nutritional Bowl for Holistic Well-being.  The printed reports on these two events were formally released at the December 18 function.

It fell on me to be the Chief Guest and Key Note Speaker at the Conference on Emigration from Punjab, an important and topical subject to the socio-economic development of Punjab and  national defense and security matters being a border State with our known bête noire, Pakistan. It was gratifying to note that it was a well arranged one-day function in which cross sections of the

intelligential participated not only as speakers and presenters but also a highly discerning and quality audience. The inaugural session was fully educative, informative and thought provoking.  Dr. Manish Jangid, Coordinating Dirctor of IIPG in his opening remarks mentioned about the purpose and expected outcome of the Conference. Chairman of IIPG, Advocate Baljinder Thakur welcomed the speakers and the audience for gracing the occasion. Thanking the hosts, BJP Leader, Avinash Khanna appreciated the IIPG’s initiative in picking up matters of interest and concern to Punjab and the country and touched upon his own contribution to the issues pertaining to emigration and related matters as an MP. Senior

Journalist and Chief Editor of the Metro Encounter, Rakesh Shantidoot gave an overview of the issue of emigration from Punjab and said it required an urgent and immediate attention as it has direct implications for the development and progress of Punjab. Executive Editor of the Ajit and a renowned columnist, Satnam Manak in his thought provoking remarks touched the historical background of Emigration from Punjab and referring to the current situation said that emigration from Punjab not only had socio-economic implications but also for the defense and security of the country being a border State. Dr. Sonia Chawla an Academic at the Jalandhar NIT touched and rightly so the educative and academic aspect of the issue of emigration and said that with a view to prepare or youth for entering life with all knowledge and know-how we had appropriately incorporated relevant inputs in the syllabus and

curriculum. Taking cue from the eminent speakers who, almost all of them, expressed their worry and concern on the emigration from Punjab in view of its adverse implications not only on the economy but also on the social fabric of the society, I deviated a bit in my Key Note address and said that emigration may not be seen as a problem but as an opportunity. The need of the hour was to streamline the procedure and control the negative fallout both by way of policy framework by the GOI and the State Government and socio-cultural reforms with matching education and training. Punjabi diaspora has been very alive and responsive traditionally and historically for centuries and it has enough sense of belong to their roots in Punjab fully dedicated to the socio-spiritual and socio-economic ethos of the great Gurus. I concluded my remarks with some real life anecdotes as a diplomat by touching the theme - “Emigration from Punjab: Policy Challenges, Gaps and Strategic Interventions.” IIPG Research Scholar, Kuljeet Kaur moderated the session skillfully and professionally.

 

The proceeded with following sessions aptly steered by yet other Research Scholars, Charu Gumber and Dr. Bharti of IIPG. Prominent opinion makers, retired bureaucrats, NRIs, entrepreneurs, intellectuals and academics like Retired IPS Kulwant Singh Heer, NRI Sat Paul of BRHF of UK, Dr. Tabish Hashmi of LPU, Udai
Sood of Pathway Global Alliance, Dr. Suman Preet of Punjabi University Patiala among others spoke on the various aspects of the issue at hand; emigration from Punjab. With a good and pragmatic approach to discuss the matter and listen to the actual players on the ground that is Educational, Travel and Employment Constants called Agents in general parlance were involved in the Conference thoughtfully. They;

Dhiraj Jaswal, Ajay Goel, Sukant Trivedi among others spoke and set the matter in its right perspective with regard to role of such Consultancy outfits as when in trouble both the affected people and the concerned authorities tries to pass the bulk on the so called Agents. The Conference, a good and productive activity, concluded with the concluding remarks of BJP politician and community activist, Rajesh Bagha and Vote of Thanks by Vice President of IIPG, Subodh Verma.

 

Being the Chief Guest and the Key Note Speaker, I decided to sit throughout the Conference. I was again invited to make my remarks, as reward or punishment (most of the speakers tend to leave after their delivery) and I congratulated the IIPG for doing a good job with

regard to topical issue of Emigration from Punjab. The deliberations at the Conference would certainly help in making sound and pragmatic policy in this regard. Just to lift the mood and remind ourselves of the need to transform India to ‘Vikshit Bharat’ I recited a stanza from Allma Iqbal’s poetry:

 

Aa, Ghairiat Ke Parde Ek Baar Phir Utha Dain
Bichron Ko Phir Mila Dain, Naqsh-e-Dooi Mita Dain

(Come, let us lift suspicion’s thick curtains once again,
Unite once more the sundered, wipe clean division’s stain)

 

Sooni Pari Huwi Hai Muddat Se Dil Ki Basti
Aa, Ek Naya Shiwala Iss Dais Mein Bana Dain

(Too long has lain deserted the heart’s warm habitation—
Come, build here in our homeland a new Shivalya)

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