Revisiting Independence: A Critical Examination of Freedom and Tolerance in India

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Seventy-five years ago, we urged the British to Quit India. Now, seven decades since we attained absolute independence, it's essential to reflect on whether we've truly achieved freedom. Do we enjoy the liberty to express our views openly, especially on sensitive topics like religion, superstitions, and certain violent traditional practices, without the looming fear of arrest or worse, violence? Regrettably, the answer to that question seems painfully clear.

Women’s Safety

"The day a woman can walk freely at night, that day we can say that India has achieved independence."

~Mahatma Gandhi

Tragically, Gandhiji's dream remains distant. Shocking statistics reveal that a woman falls victim to rape in India every 20 minutes. Ensuring the safety of our women should be a top priority, yet not enough is being done by our governments and law enforcement agencies to protect them. From college girls to single mothers, women across all strata of society face harassment, molestation, rape, and even murder under the pretext of family honour. Moreover, incidents of acid attacks, human trafficking, domestic violence, and domestic rapes add to the grim reality.

Will we ever realise Gandhiji's dream of making India a safe haven for its women?

Attack on Rationalists

In recent years, particularly since the ascension of the new government in 2014, there has been a concerning surge in attacks on free speech in India. Those daring to challenge such practices have been systematically silenced.

In 2015, M.M. Kalburgi was fatally shot on his doorstep for his longstanding criticism of idol worship among Hindus. Similarly, rationalists like Govind Pansare and Narendra Dabholkar met similar fates for questioning religious superstitions prevalent in India.

Secularism lies at the heart of India's greatness, differentiating it from its neighbours. However, these attacks pose a serious threat to India's secular fabric, marking a dangerous trend.

Cow-related Violence and Jallikattu

I have been a lifelong vegetarian and proud animal lover, yet I have never imposed my beliefs on others. Every law-abiding citizen should have the freedom to follow their dietary preferences without scrutiny. While cow vigilantes claim to protect cows and prevent their slaughter, the reality tells a different story. The alarming number of Muslims and Dalits targeted and killed under the guise of cow vigilantism speaks volumes. The 2015 Dadri mob lynching exemplifies this, where a Muslim man was lynched based on a mere rumour of storing beef.

Respecting each individual's religious, cultural, and traditional beliefs is vital. However, harming and exploiting animals in the name of tradition is unacceptable. We must advocate for the voiceless and refrain from exploiting them to perpetuate personal superstitions.

Censorship in India

Censorship, particularly in the realm of film and television, has taken a concerning turn in recent years. While the role of the Censor Board is to certify movies based on their content, the intrusion of religious and political biases by its leadership threatens freedom of expression. Numerous instances underscore this troubling trend.

Parting Thoughts

India can truly progress towards independence and prosperity if:

- Women are treated as equals and provided equal opportunities.

- Everyone enjoys the freedom to express their beliefs without fear of backlash.

- Personal choices regarding love, attire, and life partners are respected.

- Individuals are treated with kindness and dignity regardless of gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, religion, or caste.

Seventy-five years ago, we demanded the British to Quit India. Now, it's time to proclaim, "Intolerance, Quit India," and strive for a more inclusive and tolerant society.