In a nation where diversity is our strength, the struggle for social justice remains an ongoing battle. The recent landmark decision by the Supreme Court, allowing sub-classification within Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), is a beacon of hope for millions who have long yearned for equitable opportunities. This judgment holds immense potential to address the deep-rooted inequities within these communities. It is a step in the right direction towards a more inclusive and equitable India. I applaud this ruling and emphasize the urgent need to extend its benefits to Muslim and Christian Dalits. Let us explore the constitutional nuances and societal implications of this transformative judgment.

The quest for equality

The Supreme Court’s recognition that Scheduled Castes are not a monolithic entity is a significant stride towards justice. By permitting sub-classification, the Court acknowledges the diverse challenges faced by different subgroups within SCs. This move does not infringe upon the hallowed principle of equality enshrined in Article 14 of our Constitution. Rather, it amplifies the spirit of affirmative action by tailoring it to the specific needs of marginalized communities.

Article 341(2) has long been a stumbling block, imposing religious restrictions on Dalits seeking reservations. The Court’s ruling opens a gateway to dismantling these barriers. It is time to recognize that faith should not be a determinant of social upliftment. Muslim and Christian Dalits, too, deserve equal access to educational institutions, jobs, and political representation.

Empowering the backward classes

The Court’s decision paves the way for states to sub-classify within SC and ST categories. This is a game-changer for more backward communities. We advocate for a similar approach within backward classes: Backward, More Backward, and Most Backward. Such nuanced categorization ensures that the benefits of reservations reach those who need them the most.

Consider the farmer’s son in a remote village, the daughter of a daily wage labourer, or the aspiring student from a marginalized community. Their dreams should not be stifled by rigid classifications. By allowing sub-classification, we empower these aspirants to break free from the shackles of historical disadvantage.

Extending reservation benefits to Muslim and Christian Dalits

I strongly advocate for extending reservation benefits to Muslim and Christian Dalits. The current religious restrictions under Article 341 are an anachronism that undermines the spirit of social justice enshrined in our Constitution. By excluding Dalits of certain religious backgrounds from reservations, we perpetuate inequalities that reservation policies aim to eliminate. It is imperative that the Supreme Court addresses this inconsistency and ensures that all Dalits, irrespective of their religion, are entitled to the same constitutional protections and benefits.

The Constitution guarantees equality and prohibits discrimination on the grounds of religion. Yet, the current framework of reservations is anchored in religious lines, excluding a significant portion of the marginalized population. It is imperative to remove these religious restrictions under Article 341 to ensure that the benefits of affirmative action reach all those who are constitutionally entitled to it.

The road to a truly inclusive India necessitates a comprehensive approach that goes beyond mere tokenism. We must strive to create a society where every individual, irrespective of caste, religion, or gender, has equal opportunities to thrive. The Supreme Court’s judgment is a step in the right direction, but much remains to be done.

A call for immediate action

The Court’s verdict is not a mere legal pronouncement; it is a clarion call for societal transformation. I urge that this policy shift should be accompanied by a comprehensive review and adjustment of current reservation frameworks to include all marginalised communities.

The government must actively dialogue with social groups and justice advocates to build a consensus on the best ways to achieve inclusive and equitable affirmative action. Let the wheels of progress turn, ensuring that the marginalized find their rightful place in educational institutions, government jobs, and legislative bodies.

To our fellow citizens, we say: Stand with us. Justice-loving souls, regardless of caste or creed, must rally behind this cause. Let us engage in dialogue, dispelling myths and prejudices. Together, we can build an India where every child, regardless of background, can dream of a brighter future.

The path forward

The Supreme Court’s decision marks a significant step forward in the ongoing struggle for social justice in India. It highlights the need for continuous reassessment of our policies to ensure they meet the evolving needs of our society. For the Pasmanda Muslim community, this ruling offers hope that long-standing injustices can be addressed through thoughtful and inclusive legal frameworks.

We stand committed to the fight for social justice and the constitutional rights of all backward communities. We believe that lifting religious restrictions on reservations is not just a legal necessity but a moral imperative that will strengthen the fabric of India’s democracy.

About the Author:

SHAHNAWAZ AHMAD ANSARI

Shahnawaz Ahmad Ansari is the National Spokesperson & Media-In-Charge of All India Pasmanda Muslim Mahaz (AIPMM). https://aipmm.org.in/

He is a thinker, accomplished author, journalist, and editor with over two decades of experience. A published poet, his reflective and philosophical poems can be found at https://mypoeticside.com/show-poem-170364. He crafts insightful editorials, eloquently expressing his keen observations of socioeconomic and political issues through his blog https://candidqalam.home.blog/. He is also a critical political, socio-economic and literary commentator.

By Shahnawaz Ahmad Ansari

As the autumnal breeze gracefully sweeps through the quaint village of Ziradei in Siwan, Bihar, heralding another December 3rd, the air becomes laden with the weight of history and the echoes of a forgotten hero. Dr Rajendra Prasad, affectionately known and remembered as ‘Rajendra Babu’ in his native land, was not merely the first President of independent India; he was a luminary whose brilliance illuminated the darkest corners of our nation’s struggle for freedom.

As I sit down to pen my thoughts on this momentous occasion, the 3rd of December, the birthday of a man who not only shaped the destiny of our nation but also left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him, I am filled with a deep sense of responsibility and nostalgia.

Born on December 3, 1884, to Mahadev Sahai, Dr Prasad’s early life in Ziradei was a testament to simplicity and communal harmony. His upbringing in a joint family, playing ‘Kabaddi’ with friends of different faiths, laid the foundation for a man deeply connected to the values of unity and diversity. As the youngest in the family, his love for his mother and elder brother Mahendra shaped his character, forging an unbreakable bond with his roots.

A brilliant student, Dr Prasad’s journey to academic excellence faced an early test of patriotism. Awarded a scholarship of Rs.30/month after standing first in the University of Calcutta’s entrance examination, he was called by Gopal Krishna Gokhale to join the Servants of India Society. The duty-bound young man, torn between family, education, and the call for national service, eventually declined Gokhale’s invitation, setting the stage for a lifetime of unwavering commitment.

His academic journey, marked by triumphs and trials, led him to the prestigious Calcutta Presidency College in 1902. Ironically, his scholarship became a test of patriotism, and he faced a decline in academic performance after refusing Gokhale’s offer. However, Dr Prasad’s resilience prevailed, and in 1915, he earned a gold medal in the Master in Law examination, followed by a Doctorate in Law.

The turning point in his life came when Gandhiji summoned him to Champaran, Bihar during the freedom struggle. Witnessing Gandhiji’s dedication, conviction, and courage, Dr Prasad pledged to contribute his skills as a lawyer and an enthusiastic volunteer. Gandhiji’s influence reshaped his views on caste and untouchability, inspiring him to simplify his life and actively participate in relief work during floods, earthquakes, and other calamities.

Dr Prasad’s role in the non-cooperation movement in Bihar showcased his leadership and organizational skills. Establishing a National College and advocating for the use of khadi, he played a pivotal role in bringing the mighty British Raj to a grinding halt. The movement, though marred by the events in Chauri Chaura, showcased his unwavering support for Gandhiji’s non-violent principles.

Elected as the President of the Indian National Congress in 1939, Dr Prasad worked tirelessly to bridge ideological gaps within the party. His tenure witnessed the growing shadow of communalism, culminating in the painful reality of partition. As the Constituent Assembly’s President in 1946, he played a pivotal role in framing the Constitution of independent India.

Dr Prasad’s role in the drafting of the Indian Constitution reflected not only his legal acumen but also his unwavering commitment to justice and equality. As we navigate the complexities of contemporary society, we would do well to revisit his insights, seeking inspiration from a leader who envisioned a nation where every citizen had an equal stake. His thoughts on social justice were ahead of his time. He believed in an inclusive society where the fruits of progress reached every stratum.

Moreover, Dr Prasad’s qualities as a scholar and a man of unshakeable principles often take a backseat in our recollections. His commitment to education and his vision for the country’s intellectual development were unparalleled. In an era where simplicity is often mistaken for naivety, Dr Prasad’s life stands as a testament to the profound impact one can have without forsaking humility.

While we marvel at his contributions to the freedom movement and his role in shaping the constitutional framework, it is equally important to acknowledge Dr Prasad’s post-independence efforts towards national development. His tenure as President saw him championing the cause of agrarian reform and rural development, recognizing the importance of uplifting the masses from the grassroots.

A visionary in the truest sense, he articulated thoughts on education that resonate even today. “The true basis of education is not merely the training of the mind but the discipline of character,” he once remarked. In a world increasingly obsessed with academic prowess, these words serve as a poignant reminder that education without character is a ship without a compass.

In the cacophony of today’s political discourse, Dr Prasad’s statesmanship provides a refreshing contrast. He was a leader who transcended party lines, focusing on the greater good rather than partisan gains. His ability to unite diverse voices for a common cause is a lesson that our current leaders would do well to learn from.

As we pay tribute to this luminary on his birthday, it is imperative to ponder why his memory has faded from public consciousness. Have we, as a society, become so consumed by the present that we forget the architects of our past? Dr Prasad’s humility, and his commitment to the values that define the soul of our nation, should serve as a guiding light for generations to come.

Moreover, it’s disheartening to note that the birthplace of India’s first President, Ziradei in Siwan, Bihar, has been overlooked in terms of modern amenities, infrastructural development, and education. Dr Prasad, an eminent educationist, inspired the entire nation towards achieving educational excellence. However, his native place lacks the institutions that reflect his vision for quality education. It’s a reminder that while celebrating his legacy, we must also address the disparity in the holistic development of his birthplace.

As we remember Bharat Ratna and Deshratan Dr Rajendra Prasad on his birthday, let us not consign him to the annals of forgotten heroes. The simplicity, integrity, and dedication that defined his life are virtues that resonate even today. His legacy serves as a timeless guidepost for a nation navigating the complexities of the present and aspiring towards a brighter future.

In honour of Deshratan Dr Rajendra Prasad, let his story inspire us to uphold the values of unity, education, and humility. As we look back at the tapestry of our history woven by this unsung hero, let us strive to make his legacy a living testament, ensuring that no corner of our nation is left untouched by progress and enlightenment. In embracing the spirit of Dr Prasad, may we forge a path towards a future where every citizen becomes a beacon of change, contributing to the collective brilliance that defines our great nation.

Author’s Note:

I, Shahnawaz Ahmad Ansari, find a profound warmth in the tapestry of shared familial history. The echoes of Dr Rajendra Prasad’s visits to my late grandfather’s (M A Rahim) residence, and the enduring solidarity between our families in Ziradei, Siwan, Bihar, impart a deeply personal nuance to this homage. May the indelible memory of Deshratan persist as an eternal fount of inspiration, fostering generations to come and giving rise to luminaries akin to Bharat Ratna, transcending the constraints of time and space.

By Shahnawaz Ahmad Ansari

Today, we commemorate the illustrious life of a paragon of diligence, determination, and dedication – Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. His legacy reverberates across the annals of time and space, celebrated as the People’s President, revered as the architect of India’s missile technology, and globally honoured as the ‘Missile Man.’ Dr. Kalam was a visionary and an embodiment of integrity, and his life serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of resilience, passion, and unyielding patriotism. Today, we honour his life and legacy, recognizing that he was more than just a president – he was a ‘Ratna of Bharat,’ a true gem of India.

Born into humble beginnings, Dr. Kalam charted a course that would inspire generations. He wore many hats, from scientist to educational reformer, advocate of humanity and communal harmony, writer, poet, and, above all, a visionary dedicated to a brighter future for India. He carved out a unique place for himself, leaving behind a lasting impression and a roadmap for those who aspire to change the world.

India swells with pride as the world celebrates ‘Bharat Ratna’ Dr. APJ Kalam’s legacy. The United Nations marked the 15th of October, Dr. Kalam’s birthday, as World Students’ Day in 2010. This distinction was given to honour the former Indian President (2002 – 2007) and to acknowledge his enduring contributions towards education and students. Each year on World Students’ Day, the United Nations selects a theme to encapsulate the occasion. The theme chosen for 2023 is profoundly thought-provoking – “If you fail, never give up because F.A.I.L. implies ‘First Attempt In Learning.’”

A Unique Perspective on Life and a Strong Nation

Dr. Kalam’s life was a living embodiment of his philosophy, meticulously carved from life’s trials. He famously said, “Excellence is a continuous process and not an accident,” reflecting on his arduous journey from Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, to the esteemed Rashtrapati Bhavan. He persevered, steadfast in his belief that “Man needs his difficulties because they are necessary to enjoy success.” His life was not built on borrowed wisdom or ideas. He lived and breathed his philosophy, which withstood the test of time. His actions spoke louder than his words, and his commitment to excellence was unwavering.

Always reaching for the stars, Dr. Kalam’s vision for India was as boundless as the universe. He once remarked, “Look at the sky. We are not alone. The whole universe is friendly to us and conspires only for those who dream and work.” His optimistic spirit and faith in the power of dreams made him the beacon of hope and inspiration for numerous.

Dr. Kalam viewed life through a unique lens. He asserted, “Life is a difficult game. You can win it only by retaining your birthright to be a person.” To him, being a person meant possessing character, quality, and courage. It meant charting new paths and surmounting obstacles. “Man needs his difficulties because they are necessary to enjoy success,” he wisely noted.

Promoting an integrative approach to nation-building, Dr. Kalam firmly believed that a corruption-free nation, blossoming into a hub of beautiful minds, could be achieved through collective efforts. His emphasis on the trinity – the father, the mother, and the teacher – conveyed a powerful message to society. The responsibility for the nation’s upliftment rested on the shoulders of these figures. This harmonious blend of societal individuals could sow the valuable seeds of proactive change, leading to a prosperous India, embodying Dr. Kalam’s dream.

Current Challenges: Erosion of Values in Education and Dr. Kalam’s Wisdom

Today, India faces economic and cultural challenges. The economy is in a precarious state, and there’s a rise in hate crimes targeting specific communities. Dr. Kalam’s words seem like a reflection of our current reality. “We will be remembered only if we give our younger generation a prosperous and safe India, resulting from economic prosperity and the preservation of our civilisational heritage,” he had said. It’s a stark reminder of the work that lies ahead.

Dr. Kalam’s concerns about the fate of the educational system in India underline his relentless pursuit of nurturing a generation armed with knowledge and innovation. He voiced his concern about the commercialization of education, advocating a system that fosters the spirit of inquiry, creativity, and moral leadership. He desired an educational framework that produced not mere degree-holders, but capable and virtuous citizens of the nation who could lead and inspire.

Honouring Motherhood and Vision for a Knowledge Society

In his journey, Dr. Kalam never forgot the importance of a mother’s love and sacrifice. His words add a unique dimension to the universal truth that a mother’s love is unparalleled. Beyond his scientific and intellectual achievements, he was a devoted son who penned a heartfelt poem in his book “Wings of Fire” titled “Mother.” This poem takes readers on an emotional journey through his early experiences. Despite being a revered figure and a Bharat Ratna laureate, he remained a humble son, deeply rooted in his familial values and adoration for his mother’s fathomless affection.

In the literary world, his riveting books stand testimony to his profound insights and visions. Titles like “Wings of Fire,” “Ignited Minds,” and “India 2020” weave more than just narratives; they are repositories of his dreams for India and serve as guideposts for those seeking inspiration.

A tribute to Dr. Kalam can be better offered by embracing his doctrine of making India a ‘Knowledge Society.’ The real homage lies not in remembrances but in carrying forward his dream of a prosperous and educated India. That’s the India he envisioned and strived for tirelessly, even on his last day while addressing the young minds at IIM Shillong.

Takeaways from Dr. Kalam’s Illustrative Journey from Womb to Tomb

Dr. Kalam seamlessly merged science with social responsibility. As the country’s 11th president, he exemplified servant leadership and focused on transforming India into a developed nation. His birthday is a moment to reflect on his message. “Greatness is a blend of sagacity and tenaciousness,” he reminded us. It doesn’t happen overnight but is the result of diligence, determination, and dedication. He started as a ‘MAN’ and ended as a ‘GREAT MAN’ through unwavering commitment.

“Let us sacrifice our today so that our children can have a better tomorrow,” he urged. This sacrifice points to the creation of a ‘Knowledge Society,’ a society built on cooperation, love, solidarity, and universal brotherhood. Education, he believed, was the only weapon to defeat poverty and prejudice and build a better future.

We remember the ‘Ratna of Bharat’ on his 92nd birthday, each one of us striving to uphold and further his vision and legacy. We pay homage to this man of great stature, whose life, work, and words left an indelible mark on India and the world beyond. Let us pledge to make Kalam’s dream of India as a ‘Knowledge Society’ a reality, and strive to see a rebirth of his spirit in India’s progress. As we solemnly remember him, we say, “Dr Kalam lives on in the sanctum of every Indian’s heart!”

By Shahnawaz Ahmad Ansari

In a world filled with religious barriers, the essence of goodness often finds itself entangled in dogmas that restrict its true potential. As we navigate through the complexities of religious beliefs, we must question whether being a good and kind human necessitates religious adherence or if other, more profound attributes transcend such boundaries. Let’s critically examine and try to unravel the role of religion in shaping human goodness and explore the essential attributes that foster a compassionate and harmonious society, where universal brotherhood thrives.

Religion’s Role in Being a Good Human

Religion has served as a guiding force, instilling moral principles and values for many individuals. However, we venture into a compelling question – does goodness solely emanate from religious doctrines? The power of goodness cannot be confined to mere adherence; instead, it flourishes with the tool of neutrality, which harbours impartiality, immensurability, and integrity of boundless degrees.

Attributes Beyond Religion for Human Goodness

Going beyond religious affiliations, we discover fundamental attributes at the core of a good human being. Empathy, kindness, compassion, and integrity form the bedrock of human goodness. The seed of goodness is sown long before religious consciousness emerges; every child transcends religious boundaries, embodying the attributes of their parents.

Embracing Humanity: The Path to Goodness

To be truly good, one must embrace humanity as a whole. Embracing our shared human experience breaks down barriers of prejudice, fostering a deep sense of interconnectedness. In moments of need, religious labels fade away, and the goodness within propels individuals to lend a helping hand without hesitation.

Fostering Peace and Amity: Key Attributes for Society

In building a peaceful and amicable society, certain attributes take precedence. Tolerance, understanding, and respect for diversity pave the way for harmonious coexistence. In fostering peace and amity, goodness assumes the central role, transcending any rigid principles, and becoming the essence of collective cohesion.

The Primacy of Human Virtues Over Religious Identity

Religion can offer moral guidance, but it is the embodiment of human virtues that truly defines goodness. Humanistic values such as empathy and benevolence hold greater potency in fostering a compassionate society. Kindness and compassion, not religious austerity, sustain a society thriving with fidelity.

Achieving Universal Brotherhood: Transcending Divides

Universal brotherhood shatters the barriers of caste, creed, and religion, making it vital for humanity’s advancement. Cultivating shared values and mutual understanding unites us beyond religious boundaries. Humility and kindness leave indelible impressions, defining one’s identity as a human above all else.

Embracing Diversity in India: The Path to Amity

India’s unique cultural heritage – ‘Unity in Diversity’ – sets her apart in the global landscape. While diversity serves as a source of strength, it poses challenges in maintaining amity and respect for one another. Inculcating goodness that transcends religious adherence offers a solution, paving the way for a harmonious society.

Insights and Reflections

As we reflect on the endless discussion over goodness beyond religion, one truth emerges resoundingly clear: the virtues of humanity shine brighter than rigid religious beliefs in defining a good and kind human. Religion may inspire moral values, but it is empathy, compassion, and respect for humanity that propel us towards a harmonious and loving society. Embracing the universal goodness within each of us, let us liberate it from the shackles of religious barriers and shape an ideal society where ‘GOODNESS-DRIVEN-HUMANITY’ prevails, laying the foundation for a world where humanity stands above all else.

By Shahnawaz Ahmad Ansari

https://www.poemhunter.com/poem/my-didactic-dad/

Father is an aroma of our existence, an invisible shield who protects us subliminally! He is a kind of roof of the house where his children dwell! A father is a philosopher, guide and a pathfinder for his children! The degree of Dad’s affection has been unexplored yet! His blessings have mesmerising repercussions on the holistic well-being of his children! I am spoilt for the choice of words as my words are turning puny to describe the real characteristics and untamable significance of the presence of a father in one’s life. Fathers are the framework of our unframed lives! The greatest damage in my life so far, which is irreparable, is the dissociation with my father on account of his sudden unexpected demise! His love for me was unparalleled! I firmly believe that nobody can love me as he did!

Father’s Day to me is one of the most precious and auspicious days of my existence because I love my father to an indescribable degree, as he was the cause of my existence on the planet. He was the torch-bearer for me, who illuminated the values of philanthropy and the magic of thinking big in life. His noble teachings enabled me to stand against adverse circumstances and sustain the trials and tribulations patiently. The man who put me in the temper of spiralling thoughts; and imparted the spark of self-respect, innovative ideas, and a go-getter spirit, which have now become my attributes. His persuasive art of narration left an indelible impression on my character that further helped me in my personality development.

He was taciturn by orientation; used to speak less, but act more. His one word was symbolic for thousands of words. His gesture was a perfect pointer to learning what to eschew and what to assume. He always used to cite the examples of mediocrity as ‘middle road is the safest’. The credit for my being today in the face of hardships goes to his impeccable preaching and didactic tales that he used to tell when I was a lad of my doting dad. The testimony of his greatness lies in his fathomless respect for all great men of all ages under the sun, irrespective of caste, creed, boundary and region. He was a cosmopolitan by streak whose liberal thoughts delved deep, finding their genesis in humanity.

I have tried to capture my intuitive affection for my father in a few couplets. I owe these couplets a tribute to my late father on this Father’s Day! He left for his heavenly abode 4 years ago, leaving me alone without thinking about who will guide me whenever I encounter unforeseen situations! By the time he left me alone, I was not prepared to live without him! He left me stunned and lamented unrelentingly, perennially.

Click the link to go through my heartfelt poem dedicated to my dad. https://www.poemhunter.com/poem/my-didactic-dad/

Death is a scary phrase, but an ultimate truth – no one will deny subconsciously! However, the bigger question is – does death end life? No, it is not; else, it has varied opinions! Someone believes, it is the deeds that determine whether one will be remembered or not; while others believe that the impacts you bring into other’s lives is something makes you eternal. There is no conclusive image in the mirror of life.

Life keeps moving at a faster pace every day. We’re always connected through our devices. There are constantly new ideas and e-mails and all sorts of things for us to follow and learn from. Somewhere in the mix of all this, however, we’ve began to struggle with finding meaning in life.

It’s great to improve ourselves, but we have to remember that we’re not doing this just for our own benefit. The impact we can have on the world is only as good as how much we influence the lives of others for the better. Improving yourself will give you happiness as you are helping others to improve too.

And you’ll be happier if you’re honest with yourself and others and learn how to maintain the right perspective about failure. When you fail to stick to your word, this is how others feel about you. It makes having a happy life really difficult when that’s what you’re known for. Which is why it’s so important to be honest with others.

Start by writing down the times that you lie throughout the day. Not only that but record when you make promises to help yourself keep them. Also, try committing to being 100% honest for an entire week. You’ll be surprised how hard it is to follow even the promises to yourself that nobody knows about. But you will quickly discover the power it has to make you happier, as well.

It’s equally important to recognize that you’re going to experience failure and difficulties in life. But that doesn’t mean you can’t be happy. Just look at all of the people whose illnesses have made them better people. History is replete with examples of the great men who endured different hardships before turning the corner.

Recognizing the hidden benefits of hardships is the first step to getting through them well. It’s also helpful to recognize when you’re apprehensive to do something because you’re afraid of failing. You never know what you can do until you try! Never give up trying for the fear of failing. Fear is nothing but a psychological barrier to start.

People will like you better if you focus more on what you can contribute than on what’s wrong in the world. Have you ever noticed how draining it is to be around someone who complains a lot? It’s hard not to get frustrated with things that bother us, but it’s an awful waste of our time and energy. Not to mention how unlikeable it makes us to others!

To get out of your negative mindset, just try to be a little more proactive. If you’re always complaining that you don’t have time, for instance, get up an hour earlier. Or maybe you’re constantly griping about the economy or climate change. Stop worrying about what’s wrong and look to what you can do to make things better for yourself and the world around you.

You’ll also find yourself living with more purpose and happiness if you choose your career wisely by focusing on the positive difference you can make in others’ lives. Making sure that you’ll have an impact for good is a simple way to guarantee fulfilment. Even if you’re already in your career, it’s not too late. Take some online classes, learn some new skills, and prepare yourself in other ways to make a better difference on the world in your career.

If you are committed to working for bringing change in the lives of the people to make this world worth-living, your life doesn’t end even after death. See the contribution of scientists whose inventions have impacted the lives of billions of people! They passed away centuries back but they are still remembered. Whenever we set to fly in an aeroplane, the image of Wright Brothers flashes in  our mind. They died centuries ago, but their lives haven’t been ended. Therefore, death doesn’t end life – this is eternal, and individuals’ deeds determine their destiny.

~~SHAHNAWAZ

By Shahnawaz Ahmad Ansari

Reviving the most sought after Gandhian philosophy of non-violence on his 72^nd death anniversary would be the real tribute to the naked fakir – the messenger of peace, in the troubled times, we have been passing through and replicating his Guru Mantra — non-violence — in all circumstances fitting formula in our lives to restore peace, harmony and amity in our society and the strength of tolerance to the nation, would add bountiful solace to his tormenting soul.

The ongoing hubbub over post CAA across the country, leading to dividing our society and disrupting the peace and amity do not sing anyway with the Gandhian philosophy and his prototype of ideal Indian society. Anything causing discrimination on the basis of religion can’t be a Gandhian model. He aspired to make such a society where everyone would be equal before the establishment and the law irrespective of one’s religion and belief, which is also the spirit of our constitution. 

We are into the difficult plank of time where our economy is passing through its tailspin phase. It’s surprising that nobody talks about the receding employment opportunities where youth are looking desperate after jobs as Indian is the youngest country now in the world, consisting over 70% population below 35 years. Other serious problems like the malnutrition, the suicide of farmers and thinning communal harmony with innumerable imminent problems seeming to emerge aggressively, are the escape of the radar as the establishment doesn’t look very much concerned on these issues. Antagonism, envy, and partiality on grounds of creed have literally reached its zenith on Indian social fabric. 

Friends! It’s gradually getting tough for us to tailor a tolerant and harmonious fabric that may tighten the loosening amity in our society, which will go a long way in realising the dream of the Ram-Rajya that the man of the last Millennium our own Mahatma Gandhi whom the world at large cherishes with honour and idiosyncrasy envisioned of. But what we should do. Do we have any choice? Of course, we do have. Either we can get away from the tough time and ride the storm or stay against the wave of hatred and advocate restoring the composite culture of India — ‘Unity in Diversity’ — the beauty of the Indian Republic that distinguishes her from the rest of the world, making her the ‘Vishwa-Guru’.

We need to restore mutual cooperation and trust amongst us irrespective of caste, creed or region, realising that we are Indian first who bear the identity of diverse oneness; otherwise, our succeeding generation will be vandalised inhaling the venom of disharmony and it would be difficult bouncing back towards communal harmony — one of the niche identities of India that establishes her a role-model before the international community would be near to impossible.

We need a ‘Social Army’ to curb this sort of ongoing nuisance and adverse stream emanating from across the society heading to weaken our country. In the ‘Social Army’ every citizen must be the soldier to crush the anti-social-national vibes. I earnestly appeal you all through my couplets to inculcate harmonious values in our children to bust the impending danger of disharmony looming across the latitudes & longitudes of INDIA. It’s time to awake and invalidate the hurriedly emerging social order reeling to tarnish the sanctity of our hard-held rare composite culture and communal harmony. If we are successful in doing so, this would be the real tribute to the father of the nation on his 72^nd death anniversary.  

Now introspect with my couplets…

आओ चलें अब मिल्लत की ओर 

भारत है अपना क्या ही अनमोल…

आयोध्या, अजमेर छोड़ो अपने अपने 

देखो सिर्फ मुल्क की तरक्की के सपने…

हम तो हैं खालिस वतन के अपने 

अब दुनिया हमें जो कुछ भी समझे…

ये गंगा यमुना का संगम, इल्म व अदब का है मखज़न 

हिमालय है इसके सर पर, बुद्ध, ख्वाजा इसकी अज़मत…

हम सब हैं भारत के वासी, यही है हमारी साझी विरासत 

अमन, मोहब्बत व इंसानियत, हमें न चाहिये कोई रियासत…

An Unbiased Dialogue between TIME and the INDIAN Republic on Republic Day 2020…

By SHAHNAWAZ AHMAD ANSARI

There is a relentless natural phenomenon but unnoticed and unobserved — what?  That is nothing but implicit dialogues amongst different natural existential contours that sometimes seem to be unbelieving, but in the real sense of the term, they happen spontaneously. One of such dialogues between TIME and the Indian Republic happened unbiased, uninterrupted and uninfluenced on the 71^st Republic Day of India. The dialogue unfolds here.

I am an impartial and silent observer TIME. While passing through the tropics of India I saw it is Republic Day today in Indian. As being Time, I am quite impeccable in the calculation of a single moment because nothing gets an escape from my universal radar and hawkish eye. I thought the Indian Republic would be in the full swing of its constitutional execution which took a rigorous exercise of almost three years in its formation involving a potential team of intellectuals from different shades and sections of society representing a balanced representation of societal configuration with some erudite individuals of international eminence. But, I instinctively sensed something amiss and discovered that it was nothing short of the spirit of the Republic. How I discovered it, is based on my conversation with the Indian Republic. The dialogue between us is below.

TIME = T

INDIAN REPUBLIC = IR

T: Hello Indian Republic! How are you?

IR: I am not as good as you are!

T: Why?

IR: Because you are similar inside-out. Your covert and overt manifestations are no different.

T: And yours?

IR: I have been adulterated in the true sense of the term.

T: How!

IR: My watch-dog ‘Indian Constitution’ is no more loyal and uniform. It is manipulated by the change of governance and doesn’t behave as you do.

T: I thought you would be happily celebrating your 69th birthday today!

IR: Nothing as you think! I am losing the ground because what is written in the constitution is not exactly in the execution.

T: What sort of altered execution is there in your constitution?

IR: Actually, every ruling government doctors as per their political agenda.

T: I noticed yesterday, there was mayhem in different cities that seemed agitation rather than the preparation for the celebration of your birthday — Republic Day.

IR: Actually, I sometimes behave as ‘Mobocracy’ rather than ‘Democracy’ which is not the new emergence but the gradually acquired old feature of mine reaching to its cult status now.

T: Are all the governments alike?

IR: Yes. Their approaches are different but the intents are the same. The centrists play minority card while the rightists do majority politics — in the game, the leftists have no significant existence. In the end, what is the ultimate mission — is to be enthroned at the altar of anything — nothing else!

T: I sense the regular filibuster over religion. Does your constitution put any restraint to curb this sort of upsurge?

IR: You sense right. The constitution declares India as a secular state and provides directives to follow secularism both in spirit and statute besides safeguarding the civil rights of the citizens under the envelope of Fundamental Rights — one of the features of the basic structure of the constitution that keeps all the citizens in tandem under the ambit of ‘Right to Equality’, which is the real beauty of Indian Democracy.

But the political parties manipulate by fomenting the masses using their minor and major permutations and combinations. Nowadays, the ruling party of the Indian Republic is all set to subvert the basic structure of Indian constitution by legislation, which is strictly prohibited as no one is entitled to do so. But certain subversive legislations have been doing the rounds in democratic air, bringing a series of protests and dissidence against the legislation. And the good thing is that the number of law-abiding citizens irrespective of caste, creed and region has been increasing gradually, who are joining hands in the protests to strengthen the voice of dissidence against the unconstitutional legislation. 

T: How do you see your 71^st Birthday in the form of Republic Day?

IR: In fact, the celebration of my birthday is a melodrama rather than the real cause it deserves.

T: Are you happy on your Birthday?

IR: My happiness is similar to a father who is on the verge of losing one of his seven sons. 

T: Anyways, I wish you Happy Birthday with innumerable happy returns of the day! But I think Indians call it Happy Republic Day as your birth is symbolic to Indian Republic. So, once again!

                                                               Happy Republic Day!!

Worth-Reading brilliant piece by Raghuram Rajan that encompasses the entire gamut of the spectrum of 2 decades of India’s economic travails and other socio-political gradients, poisoning the spirit of the very Idea of New India and also offers his prescription to revive the distressed Indian economy.

Click to read: https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/cover-story/story/20191216-how-to-fix-the-economy-1625364-2019-12-06