Why Do Indians Disapprove of Secular and Liberal Terms?
Recent discourse in India has seen a significant shift in how certain terms such as 'secular' and 'liberal' are perceived. Many Indians are now expressing their disdain for these words, a sentiment fueled by a mix of historical context, political discourse, and cultural perceptions.
The Context of Misinterpretation
The disapproval of these terms stems largely from their perceived misinterpretation and misuse, particularly in the context of minority appeasement. The historical and present-day experiences of political and social contestants in India have led to a deep skepticism towards these labels. To many, secularism and liberalism are seen as double standards or as tools to justify actions that are insensitive to the majority community.
A Critique of Minority Appearances and Historical Context
One of the main reasons for this disapproval is the perceived selective application of secularism and liberalism. Instead of promoting justice and equality, these terms have often been used to appease and protect minorities, while turning a blind eye to instances of communal violence and injustice against Hindus. For example, the silence on Hindu killings in Kashmir, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, where the focus is often on the treatment of minorities, has contributed to this mistrust.
Additionally, the historical and ongoing influence of Christianity and its institutions in Eastern regions of India has led to instances of religious persecution. In many instances, churches have been involved in sponsoring violent acts and terrorizing Hindu populations. This combination of misinterpretation and real-world incidents has fostered a deep-seated resistance to these terms.
Political and Social Undercurrents
Over the decades, many political parties in India have been accused of fake secularism and communalism. They have been criticized for focusing disproportionately on minority appeasement while ignoring broader socio-political issues. This has led to a perception that these terms are not genuinely meant to uphold justice and equality but are instead tools to maintain power and control.
Furthermore, there is a sense that these parties and their leaders have become more aligned with external forces opposed to India, particularly in diaspora communities. This has further eroded the trust that people have in the promotion of secular and liberal values by these groups.
Rejection of Simplistic Labeling
Many Indians argue that the terms 'secular' and 'liberal' are often misused and misinterpreted. They suggest that these terms should be scrutinized in the context of their true meanings. Secularism, for example, is mistakenly equated with appeasing minority communities without addressing the core principles of religious neutrality in governance. Similarly, liberalism is often misunderstood as simply promoting certain political ideologies without deeper analysis.
The challenge is to find more fitting terms that capture the essence of left-leaning ideologies without the baggage of their current connotations. Terms such as 'pluralist' and 'reformist' are presented as more accurate descriptors that better reflect the complex realities of Indian society.
Conclusion
The disapproval of 'secular' and 'liberal' terms in India is a complex issue rooted in a mix of historical context, political discourse, and cultural perceptions. It reflects a broader dissatisfaction with the manner in which these concepts have been applied and the outcomes they have produced. As India continues to evolve, it is crucial to reassess these terms and find more effective ways to promote social and political reforms.