ARE-WE-REALLY-FREE

India - the largest democracy in the world, a secular state, that ought to provide every religion or cultural belief equal rights and respect has failed to do so. A country which grants its citizens fundamental rights is somehow incapable of providing safety to its very own people who dare to question or try to exercise the very fundamental rights provided to them by the constitution. The consequences a person faces when she/he questions are irrevocable and might even lead to their death.

Recent occurrences have had a disturbing impact on our society. Just to quote some instances-like the murder of Dr. Kalburgi by right wing activists, since he opposed certain long established religious practices, or the smearing of black paint on a politician who was trying to strengthen our ties with another counterpart or banning people from savoring a particular meat because it offends a particular community. All the people who were victimized by senseless extremists tried to stand out and express what they felt was right, which were mostly against “certain religious beliefs or practices” and these extremists felt that their areas have been transgressed.

It is imperative to think before we act; just because something has been laid down in our ancient relics does not mean that it still holds good and should be blindly followed. Infact, the underlying meaning should be adapted to the current times with modifications. With changing times, people should also broaden their perspectives and try to respect others’ views. Education should make a person more receptive and unclog the mind but the present scenario showcases otherwise. The erratic behavior and increase in violence are acting as agents which curb our ‘freedom’- a fundamental right for which our forefathers sacrificed their lives. The present situation leaves me wondering if all the great sacrifices made by them are of any use when we act like imbeciles.

I would want every individual to introspect and ask themselves this question “Will we ever be able to break free the shackles surrounding us and try to initiate change so that our fundamental rights are implemented properly freeing us from this stifling environment?”

                                                                                                                                                                 PNL ANJANI

                                                                                                                                                                 MBA Final