Secularism in India: Challenges and Resilience in the Face of Pandemic

With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, global health concerns have taken precedence, forcing individuals to focus on immediate survival. However, amidst this crisis, another debate emerges: is secularism in India facing a decline, or is it, in fact, thriving?

Expansion of Religion

Statistically, religion is expanding globally. This trend challenges the notion that secularism is on the rise. It is essential to consider how we can track secularism within both governmental and societal contexts.

What is Secularism?

Secularism is a principle that seeks to separate religion from government and public life. A key part of this definition includes promoting religious freedom and the accommodation of diverse beliefs and practices. However, in India, the current interpretation of secularism has evolved significantly under the influence of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The Role of BJP in Indian Secularism

In India, the term secularism is often linked with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and their associated organizations, such as the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). In 1980, under the leadership of V. P. Singh, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was formed as a non-RSS party, promising allegiance to India's secularism and socialism. However, this commitment has been overshadowed by events such as the Ayodhya dispute.

The Ayodhya Dispute

One of the most significant factors that has challenged secularism in India is the Ayodhya dispute. The VHP, a Hindu nationalist organization, launched a movement to worship Lord Ram at the site of the Babri Masjid in 1949. This led to the demolition of the mosque in 1992, resulting in widespread riots and loss of life.

The Impact on BJP

Despite the grievous acts that took place, the BJP's popularity surged. V. P. Singh initially distanced himself from the Ayodhya issue, but under Atal Bihari Vajpayee's leadership, the party adopted a more aggressive stance. V. P. Singh's pledge to secularism was subsequently ignored, leading to the party's political resurgence. The BJP won significantly more seats in the 1998 and 2019 elections.

Challenges in Bengal

The story of secularism in India, particularly under the BJP's influence, is complex but has parallels in other regions, such as Bengal. Since the founding of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJP's predecessor) by Atul Nath Mookerjee, the party has sought to challenge and redefine secularism in the state.

While the BJP has seen electoral gains, especially in the form of support from the RSS, the growing influence of the party has been met with resistance from secular and minority communities. This tension is evident in the socio-political landscape of Bengal, where discussions around secularism remain contentious.

Looking Ahead

As India continues to grapple with the challenges of secularism, it is crucial to acknowledge the complex interplay between political ideologies, religious tensions, and socio-economic factors. While the pandemic has diverted immediate attention, the long-term implications of these dynamics are profound.

As societies around the world navigate the complexities of religious and secular identities, the story of secularism in India serves as a cautionary tale. It underscores the importance of upholding democratic principles and the protection of minority rights, especially in a rapidly evolving political landscape.