In the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, let us ponder over the electoral mood of the national capital’s voters. The Emerging World’s analysis of all the recently held pre-poll surveys suggests all seven Delhi seats would go to the BJP if elections were held today. Now the question arises, Why do Delhi seats go to the BJP despite the AAP winning the Assembly polls decisively? Why does a state that has overwhelmingly voted for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in two consecutive Assembly polls give all the Lok Sabha seats to the BJP? Experts say there are several factors at play.
The AAP made its debut in the 2013 Delhi election and managed to get 28 of the 70 Assembly seats. It formed a government in alliance with the Congress that didn’t last a full five-year term. In the elections of 2015 and 2020, the AAP won 67 and 62 seats, respectively. The BJP, however, won all the seven Lok Sabha seats of Delhi in both 2014 and 2019. Despite a would-be Congress-AAP alliance, the pre-poll surveys show the BJP getting 57% of the vote share in Delhi. The AAP-Congress coalition if materializes, which would fare well in Punjab, fails to dent the BJP’s seats in Delhi.
“Punjab’s demographic composition is different from Delhi’s. It has always had an uneasy relationship with the Centre, even when the Congress party was in power in the 1970s and 80s,” Piyush Gautam, a poll analyst said. “This alliance [between the Congress and the AAP] in both Delhi and Punjab is not easy. Because in Punjab, AAP feels that they can gain these seats even without the Congress. So, you have seen the CM of Punjab making statements that we don’t need to have an alliance. And in Delhi, even if they come together, they will not be able to make any dent,” adds Gautam.
Why do two states give such different results with the same combination? One of the factors is different voting patterns in Assembly and parliamentary elections. “It’s a split vote, and it’s happening across India, across all the states. Every state, if you look into the vote share of the last assembly and the last Lok Sabha, you will see somewhere between 10% to 25% jump in favor of the BJP in Lok Sabha elections,” said Satyendra Singh, a political commentator.
There is an additional factor at work in Delhi that swings votes in favor of AAP in Assembly polls but doesn’t work for it in the Lok Sabha polls, according to political analyst Ramendra Dwivedi. “Delhi’s story is very simple. It is due to the Muslim vote that swings. In Assembly elections, Muslim votes tend to favor Arvind Kejriwal’s party, and in the Lok Sabha elections, they favor the Congress. So that is why there is a kind of mismatch,” Dwivedi said. Going by that logic, the seats of Chandni Chowk or East Delhi, where the minorities are in big numbers, could be foul areas of the Congress and the AAP. They can come together and put up a tough fight for the BJP.
However, what needs to be kept in mind is that the minority factor comes into play in Assembly elections because Assembly constituencies are smaller, and the numbers are enough to decide the fate of the seats. That isn’t the case in the Lok Sabha polls. Experts say that after the delimitation process of 2008, the entire composition of the Delhi seats has changed. In Delhi, there is not even a single Lok Sabha seat now that can be decided by voters of the minority community, according to the experts on The Emerging World.
Apart from that, the Modi factor plays an important role in the Lok Sabha election in Delhi like it does in most other places. That helps in the consolidation of votes for the BJP. The other reason could be that the people of Delhi still see the AAP as a regional party despite its efforts to grow in several states. So, multiple factors make Delhi seats go to the Aam Aadmi Party in Assembly polls but to the BJP in the Lok Sabha polls. That would even be the case if the 2024 Lok Sabha polls were held today or later on.
Another renowned political analyst Jeev Kant Jha said,’ Whether it will be a triangular fight or a direct contest with a single I.N.D.I.A candidate in each Lok Sabha seat in Delhi, the BJP is confident of maintaining its dominance over all seven Lok Sabha constituencies in the national capital for the third consecutive time.’ The party’s eagerness to maintain a 7-0 track record stems from its recent Assembly election victories and the discordant signals emerging from the rival I.N.D.I.A bloc on seat-sharing.
The AAP and the Congress are still determining the seats on which they will fight against the BJP, meaning that only one opposition candidate will face each BJP candidate. However, the buzz is that the AAP wants the Congress to fight on only two seats, while the Congress is keen on contesting at least three. If the seat-sharing talks fail, the two may be forced to go it alone on all seven seats. BJP national vice president and Delhi unit in charge Baijayant Panda said that the BJP’s win in the recent assembly elections in Hindi heartland states has created a positive atmosphere for the party, and there should be no doubts about the results of the Lok Sabha elections.
“We are winning all seven seats in Delhi, but we will have to make efforts to increase the victory margin, for which we will have to contact the beneficiaries of the Central government schemes and talk to them,” said Panda. A source inside the I.N.D.I.A bloc said, “The contrast seen between the alliances in the recent elections raises many questions about whether it will continue till the Lok Sabha election or not.” Psephologist Sanjay Dubey said that there is constant friction within the opposition alliance and the people who make decision for the I.N.D.I.A bloc has to take control of the alliance. Dubey added, “If they are agreeing upon it, then there should be further concrete steps. If there is a cricket team and there is no captain, who will give direction to the team?”
What’s the the chicest way to add the cherry on top of any look? Jewelry, of course! Bits, bobbles, bracelets, and earrings—there’s a lot to love about these swoon-worthy accessories. And lucky for you, we’ve been checking out all the stunning jewelry trends are going to be taking over 2022. Safe to say, you’re going to love what’s coming (trust).
From bright colors and bold statement earrings to cute and and seriously fun charms, there’s something for every jewel lover out there.
To give you a peek, we’ve rounded up the best jewelry trends you’ll be seeing everywhere next year.
Ranchi: Demanding a Supreme Court-monitored judicial inquiry in the espionage case regarding hacking of phones of opposition leaders, senior military officials, election commissioners, journalists and some other dignitaries through the Israeli spyware Pegasus leaders and workers of Jharkhand Pradesh Congress Committee demonstrated in front of the Raj Bhawan on Thursday demanding the resignation of Home Minister Amit Shah.
Under the leadership of State Congress President Dr Rameshwar Oraon a small protest was held in front of the Raj Bhawan. The party had postponed the march and procession in the wake of the instructions received regarding the corona guidelines.
Addressing the event state Congress President Dr Rameshwar Oraon said that monitoring of opponents and hacking of phones by the central government through the Israeli spyware Pegasus is completely unconstitutional and illegal, it also violates the powers conferred under Article 21. Central government had encroached into ones private space, therefore the Supreme Court should take suo moto cognizance of this matter and order a judicial inquiry, he said, adding that there is talk of investigation of such immoral acts in other countries as well.
He said that this espionage work is possible only at the behest of the Prime Minister. The BJP-led central government, finding itself weak is engaged in spying on the opponents he said, adding that it was through this that work was done to break the governments in Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh whereas the Israeli government clearly says that it can be used only and only by the government to curb terrorist and criminal activities.
India witnessed an uncharacteristically dark day in its democratic history when the hallowed halls of Parliament turned into a battleground on Thursday. What should have been a space for discourse and constructive debate became a stage for chaos, allegations, and even physical scuffles. This wasn’t just a political brawl; it was a glaring symbol of the deterioration of democratic norms in the world’s largest democracy.
From controversial remarks to accusations of physical misconduct, the events of the day serve as a sobering reminder of the widening gulf between the ideals of democracy and the behavior of its supposed torchbearers.
The controversy began with a remark by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during a Rajya Sabha session. In his speech, Shah criticized the repeated invocation of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s name in political discourse, saying, “It has become a fashion to say Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar. If they had taken God’s name as often, they’d have secured a place in heaven across seven lifetimes.”
This statement, laced with sarcasm, was bound to provoke outrage. Dr. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution and a Dalit icon, holds a revered place in India’s political and social fabric. Shah’s comments were quickly labeled as insensitive, and the Congress accused the BJP of harboring an anti-Dalit mindset. What followed was an eruption of protests, with Opposition MPs demanding an apology and Shah’s resignation.
Shah later clarified that his remarks were being twisted to suit the Opposition’s narrative, accusing Congress of running a malicious campaign. However, the damage was done. The remark became the spark that set off a chain of events culminating in physical altercations and accusations.
The protests escalated outside the debating halls. In an incident that has left the nation stunned, BJP MP Pratap Sarangi sustained head injuries during a scuffle and had to be hospitalized. Sarangi alleged that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi pushed him, causing him to lose balance and fall. On the other hand, Rahul claimed that BJP MPs tried to block his way as he attempted to enter Parliament, resulting in the commotion.
Adding another layer of controversy, BJP MP Phangnon Konyak accused Rahul Gandhi of inappropriate behavior during the protests. She claimed that his physical proximity during the altercation made her uncomfortable, a charge she formally brought to the Rajya Sabha Chairman. The allegations turned what was already a volatile situation into a personal and political slugfest, with both parties hurling accusations at each other.
As expected, the political blame game began almost immediately. BJP leaders demanded a public apology from Rahul Gandhi, questioning his fitness to serve as the Leader of the Opposition. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, after visiting the injured MPs at the hospital, called the incident unprecedented and deeply condemnable. “In my 30 years of politics, I’ve never seen anything like this,” he remarked, adding fuel to the outrage.
Congress, on the other hand, accused the BJP of orchestrating the chaos to distract from the real issues plaguing the nation. They claimed the ruling party was using such incidents to silence the Opposition and avoid answering pressing questions about unemployment, inflation, and governance failures.
Caught in the crossfire were the citizens of India, left to wonder whether their elected representatives were genuinely interested in solving the country’s problems or merely engaged in an endless game of political one-upmanship.
This incident raises uncomfortable but necessary questions about the current state of Indian democracy. Parliament is supposed to be the temple of democracy—a place where ideas are debated, policies are discussed, and the future of the nation is shaped. Instead, it is increasingly becoming a theater for political drama, where shouting matches, adjournments, and walkouts dominate headlines over substantive discussions.
The session was particularly critical, with pressing issues such as economic policies, social welfare programs, and national security requiring urgent attention. Yet, instead of deliberating on these matters, Parliament spent its time witnessing chaos and adjournments.
This isn’t the first time such behavior has been on display. Every session sees disruptions and clashes, with both the ruling party and the Opposition equally culpable. The cumulative effect is a loss of public trust in democratic institutions, which should be a cause for concern for every Indian.
The irony of the situation is glaring. The very name of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a staunch advocate for equality and the rule of law, was at the center of a controversy that violated the principles he stood for. Both the BJP and Congress claimed to uphold Ambedkar’s legacy, yet their actions suggested otherwise.
Ambedkar’s vision for democracy was one of reasoned debate, inclusivity, and respect for differing viewpoints. What unfolded in Parliament was the antithesis of that vision. His name was reduced to a tool for political point-scoring, a trend that has become increasingly common in Indian politics.
At its core, the events of Thursday represent a failure of democratic governance. The scuffles, allegations, and counteraccusations are not just a reflection of individual lapses but a systemic issue. Indian democracy thrives on the principle of accountability, yet incidents like these erode public confidence in the system.
While politicians are busy trading punches—figurative and literal—the real issues facing the nation remain unaddressed. Farmers continue to struggle, inflation is squeezing the common man, and unemployment is a ticking time bomb. Yet, these topics rarely make it to the forefront of parliamentary debates, overshadowed by the noise of political theatrics.
The solution to this crisis is both simple and difficult: accountability. Political leaders must introspect and ask themselves whether they are truly serving the people or merely their egos. The sanctity of Parliament must be upheld at all costs. This requires not just rules and procedures but a fundamental shift in mindset—one that prioritizes dialogue over disruption and progress over petty rivalries.
Moreover, citizens have a crucial role to play. As voters, we must demand better from our representatives, holding them accountable not just during elections but throughout their term. This is not a fight between BJP and Congress; it’s a fight for the soul of Indian democracy.
Thursday will go down in history as a black day for Indian democracy, a day when the temple of democracy lost its sanctity. The scuffles, accusations, and counteraccusations were a stark reminder of how far we have strayed from the ideals of governance and public service.
But this dark day also offers a lesson. It’s a wake-up call for all stakeholders in Indian democracy—politicians, institutions, and citizens alike. We must collectively strive to restore dignity to our democratic processes, ensuring that Parliament once again becomes a place of reasoned debate and meaningful decision-making.
Until that happens, every incident like Thursday’s will land not just as a punch on an opponent but as a blow to the very foundation of our democracy.
Under the leadership of Jharkhand’s Rural Development Minister, Deepika Pandey Singh, a three-member delegation met with a minor rape survivor from Jharkhand in Vadodara, Gujarat, to assess her condition and offer support. The minister and her team not only inquired about the survivor’s well-being but also extended financial assistance by handing over a cheque of ₹4 lakh to her family. The delegation demanded strict action from the Gujarat government to ensure the harshest punishment for the accused. Minister Deepika Pandey Singh was accompanied by IG Suman Gupta and Social Welfare Director Kiran Pansi during the visit.
The Incident
The incident occurred in the Jhagadia GIDC area of Bharuch, Gujarat, where a minor girl from Jharkhand was raped. Following the crime, the survivor received initial treatment at Ankleshwar Hospital and was later transferred to Bharuch Civil Hospital and finally to SSG Hospital in Vadodara.After learning about the incident, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren directed Minister Deepika Pandey Singh to lead a team to provide immediate assistance to the survivor and her family. The state government, known for its sensitivity toward migrant Jharkhand residents, ensured prompt support. The local police have already arrested the accused, and further legal proceedings are underway. The Jharkhand government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the victim and her family while ensuring justice in the case.
The state of higher education in India is facing a significant crisis as central universities continue to operate without permanent Vice-Chancellors (VCs), creating a leadership vacuum that severely impacts their governance, academic efficiency, and overall progress…….
Despite the government’s claims of having taken action, these fake universities continue to operate and deceive unsuspecting students
Prof. Gobinda Singh Rajwar
In recent times, India’s education system has been at the forefront of national debates. The issues raised during Parliament sessions have thrown a stark light on the crumbling state of education, especially in higher education. A key moment occurred when Deputy Minister Sukanta Mazumdar addressed the serious issue of teacher vacancies, revealing disconcerting data. As of the latest government report, approximately 35.3% of teaching positions in central institutions, including universities like the IITs and IIMs, remain unfilled. This equates to more than 11,000 faculty positions across these institutions. To make matters worse, many of these vacancies are in critical reserved category positions, with over 50% of senior faculty roles in these categories still vacant.
The statistics underscore a deep structural flaw in the country’s higher education system. Central universities report a vacancy rate of 32.6%, while IITs and IIMs are at 40.3% and 31.5%, respectively. The question that arises is why these positions remain unfilled despite the constant rise in demand for higher education and research in India. Is this merely an oversight, or does it reflect a broader lack of commitment to quality education?
In recent decades, India has seen its higher education system expand rapidly. However, this growth has often outpaced the infrastructure and human resources necessary to support it. As institutions like the IITs and IIMs continue to grow in prestige, their capacity to offer quality education is compromised due to a lack of qualified faculty. The government has now mandated that these vacancies be filled on a mission-mode basis, with monthly monitoring mechanisms in place. But such measures often fail to address the root causes of the issue—poor governance, underinvestment, and a systemic lack of attention to faculty development.
Aurobindo Ghosh once famously said, “Education is the foundation of all human progress and must be given utmost attention by any nation.” However, India’s neglect of its education system over the last decade stands in stark contrast to this ideal. The current administration, despite its aggressive push for nationalistic reforms, seems to have sidelined education in favor of religious and political issues. As a result, the nation risks losing its competitive edge on the global stage in critical sectors such as technology, management, and scientific research.
The Rising Tide of Fake Universities
While the vacancies in Indian universities raise concerns about the quality of education, a far more dangerous issue has been the rise of fake universities operating across the country. As noted by Sukanta Mazumdar, 21 such universities were flagged by the government. Out of these, 12 have already been shut down, but the remaining institutions continue to operate, often under the radar. Shockingly, many of these fake universities are located in the national capital, Delhi, a city that should ideally set an example of educational excellence.
Despite the government’s claims of having taken action, these fake universities continue to operate and deceive unsuspecting students. The UGC (University Grants Commission) website, which should be a critical tool in the regulation of higher education, lists these institutions as legitimate. This is both a failure of governance and an indictment of the current education regulatory framework. In a country where education is increasingly becoming a critical pathway to personal and professional growth, such systemic lapses are deeply concerning.
This rise in fake universities highlights a disturbing trend—India’s education system is being commodified, and many unscrupulous actors are capitalizing on the ignorance and desperation of students and their families. These institutions prey on the lack of awareness among students, offering degrees and courses that have no academic value. This not only jeopardizes the future of countless students but also tarnishes the reputation of India’s entire higher education system.
As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The true function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education.” It is apparent that this ideal is far from being realized in the current education system, where fake degrees often supersede genuine learning, and the focus is on numbers rather than quality. The unregulated proliferation of such institutions undermines the integrity of the system, leaving students disillusioned and misled.
The question remains: how long will the government continue to ignore this crisis? The education system is the foundation of any nation’s growth and stability, yet we are failing to build that foundation solidly. If the trend of fake institutions continues unchecked, the future of India’s youth and its global standing in education will remain at risk.
Focus on Religious Nationalism and Its Impact on Education
As the vacancies in educational institutions and the rise of fake universities point to a deeper crisis, one cannot help but ask: where has the government’s focus been over the last decade? Under the current regime, the country’s priorities have shifted dramatically. While there has been a surge in focus on issues like religious nationalism, the education system has been largely sidelined. The BJP government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has pushed a narrative centered around “mandir” (temples) and “masjid” (mosques) rather than focusing on empowering institutions of learning.
The government’s agenda has been dominated by issues related to religious identity and nationalistic symbolism. From the Ram Mandir movement to the contentious debates over the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC), the administration has largely ignored the pressing needs of the education sector. Education, once the bedrock of nation-building, is now relegated to the backseat.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a visionary in Indian education, once argued that “Educate, Agitate, Organize”—a powerful slogan that emphasized the transformative power of education. Yet, the current policy environment seems to have strayed far from this ideal. In a nation as diverse as India, where the aspirations of millions rest on education, the neglect of this vital sector is unforgivable. The lack of a clear, sustained focus on education—combined with the government’s focus on religious identity—has stunted the growth of India’s intellectual capital.
Moreover, the government’s attempts to centralize control over education through measures like the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 are indicative of an inclination to dictate the ideological direction of education, rather than fostering critical thinking. This has been seen as a tool for reinforcing the dominance of certain ideological groups, rather than ensuring a diverse, inclusive educational environment. By sidelining important academic debates in favor of religious agendas, the government risks the future of India’s youth.
This shift in priorities is evident when we compare the education policies of past leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Madan Mohan Malaviya, who understood the power of education in shaping a free and democratic society. Nehru’s emphasis on building institutions like IITs and IIMs was based on a belief that education should be used to empower the nation, not merely to fuel religious agendas. Malaviya, who envisioned Banaras Hindu University (BHU) as a space of academic excellence and intellectual freedom, championed education as the key to social transformation.
In contrast, today’s government seems to have strayed from these ideals. The result is a generation of students who are more attuned to political slogans than to intellectual engagement. This shift has further eroded the quality of education, as students are encouraged to engage in ideological battles rather than focusing on academic excellence.
The promotion of private universities in India over the past few decades raises important questions about the state’s role in providing quality education and maintaining a robust public education system. While government institutions have traditionally been the backbone of higher education in India, the increasing shift towards private universities reflects a deep structural failure within the public sector. The reality is that many private universities, despite their lofty promises, often fall short in terms of providing high-quality education, yet they charge exorbitant fees. The cost of attending these institutions is comparable to or even exceeds that of foreign universities, with little assurance of job placements or employability. In the current climate, education in India has essentially become a lucrative market—a business rather than a service to the nation’s youth.
One of the primary reasons for this growing reliance on private universities is the government’s inability to fill vacancies in public institutions. With more than 35% of faculty positions unfilled in central universities, IITs, and IIMs, the public sector is increasingly unable to offer students the educational experience they deserve. Instead, students, particularly those from middle and lower-income backgrounds, are forced to turn to private institutions that promise access to world-class infrastructure and teaching—at a cost that often leaves them financially burdened. Ironically, these private universities, despite charging exorbitant fees, fail to provide their students with the real benefits of higher education, such as a guaranteed job or a pathway to growth in the professional world.
The fact that private institutions have become an education market is a reflection of the government’s failure to maintain a system that serves the public good. India’s education system, once grounded in values of knowledge, inquiry, and holistic development, has slowly transformed into a corporate sector where profits often outweigh the quality of education provided. This commercialization of education is alarming, as it undermines the very essence of learning, which has historically been a tool for individual growth and societal betterment. In ancient India, education was deeply intertwined with values, spirituality, and the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake, not for financial gain.
The Vedas, one of the oldest and most revered scriptures in Indian history, place immense emphasis on knowledge and education as means of attaining wisdom and spiritual enlightenment. The Rigveda states, “Tamaso ma jyotirgamaya”, meaning “Lead me from darkness to light,” underscoring the transformative power of knowledge. The Upanishads also stress the importance of education in the search for truth and the nature of existence. In the Chandogya Upanishad, the teacher Uddalaka instructs his son, “Tat tvam asi,” meaning “Thou art that,” indicating the integral connection between the individual and the ultimate knowledge. In this ancient framework, education was not merely about acquiring degrees or certifications but about cultivating wisdom that could lead to a higher understanding of life and the universe.
In contrast, the modern-day educational market in India has moved far away from these philosophical principles. The state’s failure to support public education has created an environment where private universities can thrive unchecked, often operating with little regard for quality. As the government continues to neglect the public sector, students are left with no choice but to pay hefty fees for a questionable return on investment. This reflects not just a failure in policy but also a deep disconnection from the core values of education that were once so central to Indian civilization.
The situation is symptomatic of a larger trend where education, instead of being viewed as a public service, has become commodified. This raises fundamental questions about the role of the government in ensuring equal access to quality education for all its citizens, irrespective of their financial background. The state’s inability to prioritize and invest in public institutions has led to a situation where private universities are now seen as the only alternative. This is a dangerous trend, one that undermines the very idea of education as a tool for empowerment, and it is a legacy that must be addressed before it becomes too ingrained in India’s educational framework.
In conclusion, the state of education in India over the last decade reflects a systemic decline exacerbated by political priorities that place more emphasis on religious and nationalistic concerns than on academic and intellectual growth. The figures—whether it’s the alarming vacancy rates in higher education institutions or the proliferation of fake universities—tell a stark story of negligence. The failure to address these issues has long-term consequences not just for India’s education system, but for its future as a knowledge-driven economy.
As India stands at the crossroads of economic transformation, education remains the key to unlocking the potential of its vast human resources. The question remains: will the government refocus on building a strong, equitable, and quality education system, or will the country’s youth continue to be left behind as political and religious agendas dominate the discourse? Until such questions are answered, India’s educational future will remain uncertain.
Andhra Pradesh Christ New Testament Deemed University, #32-32-2003, 7th Lane, Kakumanuvarithoto, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh-522002 and another address of Christ New Testament Deemed University, Fit No. 301, Grace Villa Apts., 7/5, Srinagar, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh-522002 Andhra Pradesh Bible Open University of India, H.No. 49-35-26, N.G.O’s Colony, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh-530016
Delhi All India Institute of Public & Physical Health Sciences (AIIPHS) State Government University, Office Kh. No. 608-609, 1st Floor, Sant Kripal Singh Public Trust Building, Near BDO Office, Alipur, Delhi-110036 Delhi Commercial University Ltd., Daryaganj, Delhi. Delhi United Nations University, Delhi Vocational University, Delhi ADR-Centric Juridical University, ADR House, 8J, Gopala Tower, 25 Rajendra Place, New Delhi – 110 008 Indian Institute of Science and Engineering, New Delhi Viswakarma Open University for Self-Employment, Rozgar Sewasadan, 672, Sanjay Enclave, Opp. GTK Depot, Delhi-110033 Adhyatmik Vishwavidyalaya (Spiritual University), 351-352, Phase-I, Block-A, Vijay Vihar, Rithala, Rohini, Delhi-110085
Karnataka Badaganvi Sarkar World Open University Education Society, Gokak, Belgaum, Karnataka
Kerala St. John’s University, Kishanattam, Kerala International Islamic University of Prophetic Medicine (IIUPM), Kunnamangalam Kozhikode, Kerala-673571
Maharashtra Raja Arabic University, Nagpur, Maharashtra
Puducherry Sree Bodhi Academy of Higher Education, No. 186, Thilaspet, Vazhuthavoor Road, Puducherry-605009
West Bengal Indian Institute of Alternative Medicine, Kolkatta. Institute of Alternative Medicine and Research,8-A, Diamond Harbour Road, Builtech inn, 2nd Floor, Thakurpurkur, Kolkatta – 700063
(The author is a distinguished biodiversity researcher, a Linnean Society fellow, a global advocate for the Himalayas, and a visiting professor at several prestigious universities both in India and abroad.)
Assets Distributed Among Beneficiaries at Block Office
Sanjay Pandey, Palamu: State Finance, Commercial Tax, Planning & Development, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Radhakrishna Kishor laid the foundation stone for the Dhumkudia Bhawan construction project in Jharinimiya village, under Meral Panchayat of Patan block. Addressing the gathering, he stated that Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s vision is to preserve tribal culture. The Dhumkudia Bhawan will serve as a center for preserving and showcasing the traditions and customs of the tribal community. He added that discussions and ceremonies related to tribal life have historically been conducted in Dhumkudia, and maintaining this tradition is everyone’s responsibility. Minister Kishor also assured that the unpaved road leading to the site will soon be converted into a paved road. Later, at Naudiha Panchayat Secretariat, Minister Kishor laid the foundation stone for the Sub-Health Center Building, emphasizing that this center will strengthen healthcare facilities in the surrounding villages. At the Patan Block Office premises, Minister Kishor participated in the inauguration and foundation stone-laying ceremony for multiple projects. He inaugurated an open gym and an energy pillar, while also laying the foundation stones for a cycle stand-cum-parking shed and Birsa Harit Gram Yojana-based mango orchards. Additionally, he participated in a tree plantation drive under the Linear Plantation Scheme. During the program, assets were distributed to beneficiaries: Approval letters were issued under the Abua Awas Yojana. ₹1.26 crore loans were distributed to 42 self-help groups under the Cash Credit Linkage scheme. Soil Health Cards were distributed to over 20 beneficiaries. Bicycles were distributed among schoolgirls to support their education. The event began with a lamp-lighting ceremony led by the Minister, Deputy Development Commissioner, and other public representatives. The Minister was warmly welcomed by the public along the route from Patan Mor to the Block Office. The stage was anchored by VLW Alok Kumar Pandey. On-the-Spot Approval for Transformer Installation During the program, Block Development Officer (BDO) requested the installation of a 200 KVA transformer in the office premises to facilitate skill development and empower local women through sewing machine-based employment. Responding immediately, Minister Kishor called the department’s GM on the spot and directed the installation of the transformer within 15 days. Jharkhand CM Maiyan Samman Yojana: No Economic Burden on the Government Minister reiterated that the Jharkhand CM Maiyan Samman Yojana does not impose any economic burden on the state. He affirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring timely financial assistance to all mothers and sisters. Grievance Boxes to Address Block and Circle-Level Complaints: To enhance transparency and address issues efficiently, Minister Kishor announced the installation of two grievance boxes at the block office: One for block-related complaints. Another for circle-related issues. He urged the public to actively use these boxes, adding that the received grievances will be regularly reviewed and resolved. The event witnessed the presence of Deputy Development Commissioner Shabbir Ahmed, Patan BDO-CO, Zila Parishad members, Panchayat leaders, former Mukhiya, social workers, public representatives, and a large number of residents.
Special Focus on Emergency Ward Cleanliness and SOP for “Brought Dead” Cases
EW Correspondent, Ranchi: A coordination meeting was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Manjunath Bhajantri at the administrative building auditorium of Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS). The meeting included discussions with district administration officials, RIMS Superintendent, administrative officers, and heads of various departments. The primary agenda of the meeting was to ensure that patients visiting RIMS receive proper treatment without any hurdles. Deputy Commissioner Bhajantri emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness in the Trauma Center and Emergency Ward at regular intervals and instructed that cleaning be carried out every few hours. To address the bed availability issue, it was decided that a live display board will be installed, enabling the attendants of patients to check the real-time availability of beds. The Deputy Commissioner also directed that essential medicines and surgical items should always remain in stock to avoid inconvenience. A proposal was made to verify the attendance of doctors, nurses, and other staff in OPD through magistrates as per the duty roster. This step will ensure punctuality and smooth functioning of OPD services, ultimately benefiting the patients. Deputy Commissioner Bhajantri stressed that doctors must attend OPD sessions on time, ensuring timely consultation and reducing patient waiting time. SOP for Brought Dead Cases Addressing another significant matter, the Deputy Commissioner instructed the RIMS administration to draft a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for cases where patients are declared “brought dead” in the emergency ward. The SOP will aim to streamline the process and provide support to the relatives of deceased patients. Discussions were also held regarding the appointment of hospital managers to enhance administrative efficiency at RIMS. The Deputy Commissioner reviewed shortcomings observed during a recent surprise inspection of the Emergency/Trauma Center and Blood Bank. He provided necessary directions to address these issues promptly. Additionally, instructions were given to the concerned officials to ensure that the approach roads to the Emergency and Trauma Center remain encroachment-free, allowing smooth and unhindered access for patients. The meeting highlighted a comprehensive plan to improve medical services, ensuring better treatment facilities and smoother administrative processes for patients and their families at RIMS.
India’s reliance on coal and other fossil fuels is a major contributor to air pollution. Investing in renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydrogen can significantly reduce emissions. The government must incentivize industries to adopt cleaner technologies and phase out polluting ones
Kumar Narendra Singh
Air. It’s invisible, essential, and now, in India, lethal. The statistics paint a picture so grim that it’s almost surreal. Yet, here we are, with another report confirming what we already know but refuse to act upon. The latest study published in Lancet Planetary Health reveals a chilling reality: India’s air pollution levels have reached such catastrophic proportions that we are now faced with a stark choice—existence or extinction. The air we breathe is no longer just a part of our environment; it has become a weapon of mass destruction, and we are its unwitting victims.
The study lays bare some hard truths. There isn’t a single location in India where yearly average pollution levels fall within the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended limits. Think about that for a moment. Every breath we take, whether in bustling cities or quiet villages, carries toxic particles—PM2.5 being the deadliest among them. These microscopic particles are so small they penetrate deep into our lungs and bloodstream, wreaking havoc on our bodies. The numbers are staggering: 1.5 million deaths annually in India are attributed to air pollution. To put that into perspective, it’s equivalent to losing the entire population of cities like Pune or Jaipur every single year.
What’s worse, 82% of Indians live in areas where the air doesn’t even meet India’s National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), which are far more lenient than WHO guidelines. If our national benchmarks fail to protect us, imagine how far we are from global safety standards. Every 10 micrograms per cubic meter increase in PM2.5 levels results in an 8.6% increase in mortality. The data is not just numbers; it’s a death sentence for millions.
Air pollution is not just a respiratory issue; it’s a systemic assault on human health. PM2.5 particles increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure. They impair cognitive development in children and lead to developmental delays. Pregnant women exposed to high pollution levels are more likely to give birth to underweight babies. The economic cost is equally devastating. Poor air quality burdens healthcare systems, reduces productivity, and shortens life expectancy. Yet, despite these dire consequences, air pollution remains a problem we acknowledge but rarely address with urgency.
Why Are We Failing?
India’s fight against air pollution is riddled with challenges. Let’s start with vehicles. Urban areas are choked with traffic, and diesel-powered engines emit significant quantities of PM2.5. The problem is compounded by the lack of public transport options, forcing more people to rely on private vehicles. Then there’s the issue of industries. Northern and eastern India, in particular, are home to countless factories that release pollutants with little to no regulatory oversight. Crop burning—a seasonal nightmare in states like Punjab and Haryana—adds to the already toxic air, creating the infamous winter smog that blankets cities like Delhi.
But the real culprit? Weak enforcement of regulations. Environmental laws exist, but compliance is abysmal. Many small-scale industries operate without proper permits, and penalties for violations are rare. The political will to tackle this issue head-on is often missing, as short-term economic interests take precedence over long-term public health.
Launched in 2017, the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) aimed to reduce PM2.5 levels by 20-30% by 2024. On paper, it was a step in the right direction. In reality, its impact has been limited. PM2.5 levels have continued to rise in many areas, exposing the programme’s shortcomings. The NCAP suffers from inadequate funding, lack of coordination between state and central governments, and vague accountability mechanisms. Without a robust framework to monitor progress and enforce action, even the best-laid plans fall apart.
Solutions That Could Save Lives
The good news? Solutions exist. The bad news? Implementing them requires unprecedented commitment and collaboration. Here’s what needs to change:
Tighter Regulations and Enforcement: Stricter emission norms for vehicles and industries are non-negotiable. But regulations mean nothing without enforcement. Authorities must impose heavy penalties for non-compliance and shut down repeat offenders.
Transition to Clean Energy: India’s reliance on coal and other fossil fuels is a major contributor to air pollution. Investing in renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydrogen can significantly reduce emissions. The government must incentivize industries to adopt cleaner technologies and phase out polluting ones.
Revamping Urban Transport: Expanding public transportation networks and promoting electric vehicles (EVs) are crucial. Subsidies for EVs, coupled with the development of charging infrastructure, can encourage more people to make the switch.
Curbing Crop Burning: Farmers need viable alternatives to burning crop stubble. Subsidizing equipment like happy seeders and promoting awareness about the health impacts of stubble burning can help mitigate the problem.
Raising Public Awareness: Air pollution isn’t just an environmental issue; it’s a public health emergency. Educating citizens about the risks and encouraging them to adopt eco-friendly practices can create a ripple effect.
Investing in Innovation: Research and development of low-carbon technologies must be prioritized. From air purifiers for urban centers to biogas plants in rural areas, innovation can drive sustainable solutions.
This isn’t just about air pollution; it’s about the kind of future we want for ourselves and our children. Economic growth at the cost of public health is a false bargain. A sick population cannot drive prosperity. Addressing air pollution is not just an environmental imperative; it’s a moral obligation.
Other countries have shown that progress is possible. China, once infamous for its smog-filled skies, has made significant strides in improving air quality through strict regulations, massive investments in renewable energy, and public awareness campaigns. If they can do it, so can we.
Air pollution in India is not an isolated problem; it’s a collective failure. Governments, industries, and citizens all share the responsibility of finding solutions. Policymakers must prioritize health over politics. Industries must embrace cleaner practices. And citizens must demand better and make changes in their own lives—be it through carpooling, reducing waste, or planting trees.
The air we breathe is killing us, but it’s not too late to change course. We have the knowledge, the technology, and the means to combat this crisis. What’s missing is the urgency. Let’s not wait for the next alarming report or another million deaths to take action. The choice is ours: do we fight for our existence, or do we let extinction win?
The time for complacency is over. It’s time to reclaim the air, our health, and our future. Because if we don’t, the headlines about air pollution won’t just be statistics; they’ll be obituaries.
Our education system isn’t job-ready. Fancy degrees are no substitute for real-world skills.
The unorganised sector dominates. Most workers don’t get stable incomes or social security.
We romanticise government jobs. While the private sector struggles to attract talent, the lure of sarkari naukris keeps millions fixated on a pipe dream.
Self-employment isn’t easy. Fear of loans and lack of resources discourage potential entrepreneurs
Sanjay pandey
Imagine this scene: a young man, MA degree in hand, standing in line for a clerk’s post. Or a PhD holder competing for a peon’s job. Sounds absurd, right? Yet, it’s the reality in India today. A nation of over 1.4 billion people, home to some of the brightest minds in the world, is struggling to provide its youth with decent employment. What’s going wrong? Let’s break it down.
According to official stats, India’s unemployment rate is just 3%. Sounds great, doesn’t it? But dig a little deeper, and the picture gets murkier. Here’s the trick: if you’ve worked for just one hour in a week, congratulations—you’re “employed.” On paper, at least. Compare that to countries like the US, where you’re only considered employed if you’re actively seeking work and ready to join in two weeks. Clearly, we’ve set the bar low enough to trip over.
But unemployment isn’t just about numbers. It’s about lives, dignity, and dreams. When millions are underemployed or stuck in low-paying, unstable jobs, you realize the crisis runs much deeper than statistics can capture.
Degrees vs. Skills: The Great Mismatch
The traditional belief that a degree guarantees success is increasingly being challenged by the realities of India’s job market. While education is often seen as the pathway to better opportunities, data reveals a startling contradiction. As per recent statistics, 59.6% of uneducated individuals have jobs, compared to just 57.5% of graduates and postgraduates. This counterintuitive trend highlights a deeper issue—our education system is not aligned with the demands of the modern labor market.
The India Employment Report 2024 further exposes this gap. Unemployment among highly educated youth has reached a concerning 28.7%, while less-educated individuals face an unemployment rate of just 3.2%. This disparity reveals a structural mismatch: graduates and postgraduates are entering the workforce with degrees that often lack relevance in a rapidly evolving economy.
The issue lies not in the pursuit of education itself but in its outdated framework. The focus remains on theoretical knowledge and rote learning, leaving students ill-equipped with the practical, technical, and interpersonal skills employers value. As a result, industries face a skills shortage even as millions of degree holders remain unemployed or underemployed.
This growing disconnect demands urgent reform. Institutions need to shift from merely conferring degrees to developing market-relevant skills. Emphasizing vocational training, internships, and industry collaboration can help bridge the gap between education and employment. Additionally, integrating emerging fields such as AI, data analytics, and green technologies into curricula can ensure that graduates are prepared for the jobs of tomorrow.
If education is to remain a ladder to success, it must evolve to meet the realities of a competitive and dynamic job market. Without this transformation, degrees risk becoming symbols of lost potential rather than stepping stones to prosperity.
“Working Hard, Earning Meagerly”
Let’s dive into the harsh realities of income disparity in India. According to recent data, 78% of workers earn less than ₹14,000 a month—a figure that barely meets basic living costs in urban areas and highlights the persistent challenge of low wages. The situation is even more precarious for the self-employed, who, despite working longer hours and often shouldering higher risks, earn ₹7,423 less on average compared to salaried employees. This economic struggle fuels the mad rush for government jobs, which not only provide financial stability but also come with additional perks like pensions, healthcare, and societal prestige. However, the demand far outweighs the supply, with only a few thousand vacancies each year and millions of aspirants competing. This makes government jobs an elusive aspiration for many, underscoring the urgent need for broader economic reforms to improve income security and job quality across sectors.
Rural vs. Urban
Unemployment in India varies significantly between rural and urban areas, but both face distinct challenges rooted in systemic issues. In rural regions, employment is predominantly tied to agriculture, which is highly seasonal and vulnerable to external factors like erratic monsoons and market fluctuations. As a result, many workers are left with unstable incomes and limited opportunities for year-round employment. Non-farm job creation in rural areas remains insufficient, further deepening economic insecurity.
In urban centers, the nature of unemployment shifts dramatically. Here, the issue is less about seasonal work and more about the lack of quality jobs that align with the growing number of educated aspirants. Overcrowded job markets lead to underemployment, where individuals work in roles that do not match their qualifications or aspirations.
Adding to the complexity is the persistent gender gap in employment. Women’s labor force participation is one of the lowest in the world, driven by societal norms, inadequate childcare support, safety concerns, and limited opportunities in both rural and urban settings. This gender disparity not only reflects inequity but also holds back the economy from realizing its full potential.
Whether in rural areas or urban centers, unemployment in India underscores a critical need for targeted policy interventions to boost job creation, diversify rural livelihoods, and close the gender gap in the labor market. Addressing these issues is essential for fostering inclusive and sustainable economic growth..
What’s Really Wrong?
From Crisis to Opportunity
Fixing unemployment isn’t rocket science. It just needs focus, innovation, and a bit of courage. Here’s what we can do: • Reinvent education. Make it skill-orientated. Introduce vocational training and ensure students graduate job-ready. • Support self-employment. Simplify access to loans, provide mentorship, and celebrate entrepreneurship. Let’s make startups aspirational, not intimidating. • Boost the unorganised sector. Ensure minimum wages, offer social security, and protect workers from exploitation. • Empower women. Flexible work options, childcare facilities, and special schemes can help women join the workforce in larger numbers. •Go digital. Equip the youth with modern skills like coding, data analysis, and AI. The future is tech-driven, and we need to catch up.
Unemployment in India isn’t just about joblessness. It’s about shattered dreams, unfulfilled potential, and a society struggling to keep up with its aspirations. But here’s the thing: crises often pave the way for innovation. If we address the root causes—education, skills, and inequality—India can transform this challenge into an opportunity.
As they say, Rome wasn’t built in a day. But if we start today, we can ensure that tomorrow’s India is a land of opportunities—not just for a lucky few, but for everyone. After all, in a country of a billion dreams, no one deserves to be left behind.
(Writer is the Political Editor of The Emerging World)
According to a government report, India’s toll-free mental health helpline, Tele-Manas, has received over 3.5 lakh calls since its launch in October 2022
Sourav Ray
In modern India, the youth have a desire to do something different and special for their society and family. With a unique zeal and passion, they move forward so that they can stand on their own feet in the future. In the present scenario, government jobs are given great importance from a social point of view, and a youth’s social status is judged by his job. From childhood days, parents want their children to become government officers or doctors-engineers, whether their children wish or not. Ultimately, due to family pressure and increasing competition, the youth start preparing for government jobs.
One of the major competitive examinations in the country is UPSC, after successfully passing which you become a government officer. In recent years, preparing for UPSC has become a trend among the youth. This can be considered a way to increase the prestige of oneself and one’s family in the society. In big cities like Delhi, youth from different states come to prepare for this exam.
The trend of youth towards other competitive exams like UPSC has also increased. One of the main reasons for this is their ambitions. In this competitive environment, every youth is special in his own way—some have a postgraduate degree, some have obtained a doctorate degree. Now comes the question of a good job, which is considered a government job in the society.
If we talk about the India of the past, the popularity of competitive exams was less than today. In modern India, the popularity of competitive exams has increased a lot due to social media and coaching institutes. Coaching institutes charge huge fees and in return show dreams that if you work hard, the life of you and your family will improve and you will get a foothold in the society. When the youth jump into this world of dreams, even if they do not want to, they realize that it is a swamp from which it is difficult to get out. Due to this, the youth lose the most important decade of their life.
When youth can’t succeed in competitive exams despite several attempts, the fear of losing respect for themselves and their family troubles them.
Nowadays youth aspire for higher positions by getting higher education, but due to limited opportunities, competition has become intense. Many youth are forced to remain unemployed for years, which is affecting their mental health. This disappointment directly affects the mental health of the youth. After not being successful in the competition, they feel guilty, which results in depression.
According to the National Mental Health Program (NMHP), it is estimated that 6-7% of the population suffers from mental health disorders. Most of the mental health problems are faced by the youth, 35 students commit suicide every day in the country. This figure is very shocking, youth is the future of the country and if the youth becomes a victim of depression, then somewhere along with the family, the entire society suffers.
According to a government report, India’s toll-free mental health helpline, Tele-Manas, has received over 3.5 lakh calls since its launch in October 2022. Men calling the helpline account for 56% of the total calls. Most of these callers (72%) are in the age group of 18 to 45, which shows that cases of mental health disorders are increasing rapidly among the young population.
Psychologist Dr Rupa Ghosh says that a large number of youth are becoming victims of depression. It is important to be aware of your future, but excessive worry affects mental health. For this, some precautions need to be taken like sharing your thoughts openly with your family or friends, stop finding faults in yourself, give yourself time, get adequate sleep, along with this, it is very important to get complete sleep, try to sleep at least 8 hours at night. These days, youth consume intoxicants to relieve stress, which acts as a sweet poison. Intoxicants also become the cause of depression, so it is important to exercise to keep yourself healthy, only then you will be mentally and physically fit.
Increasing depression among youth is a major problem for the whole country, but neither the government nor the society is aware of it. Many political parties promise that bumper vacancies will be issued and jobs will be given to the youth, but this does not happen. A large section of youth remains unemployed, due to which problems like depression arise. The government should run awareness campaigns to prevent this, while society needs to play an important role. Family members need to take care that they do not compare their relatives with anyone else because when comparisons are made, depression increases.
Ranchi psychologist Dr. Rupa Ghosh says that a large number of youth are becoming victims of depression. It is important to be aware about your future, but excessive worry affects mental health. For this, some precautions should be taken, such as sharing thoughts openly with your family and friends, stopping self-criticism, giving time to yourself and getting enough sleep. Getting enough sleep is very important; try to get at least 8 hours of sleep at night. These days, youth consume drugs to relieve stress, which acts as ‘sweet poison’
The contrasting example of France underscores India’s failure to balance secularism with cultural preservation
Dr. Viswanath Pandey
India’s secularism, much like the land it governs, is paradoxical. It professes equality among religions but operates with the unequal precision of a colonial hangover. Hindu temples, in particular, find themselves enmeshed in a unique bind—both symbol and casualty of a peculiar interpretation of secular governance. Their fate, regulated by the state to a degree unmatched by other religious institutions, is emblematic of a broader imbalance that undermines both cultural preservation and constitutional equity.
Across the globe, a different secular principle plays out. France, a nation where religion and state are famously separate, reopened Notre Dame Cathedral after a painstaking restoration following its 2019 fire. The effort, costing over €700 million, was largely funded by the state and public donations—not as an act of faith but as one of heritage. In India, however, the state’s relationship with Hindu temples is not one of reverence or preservation but of regulation and, often, exploitation.
Legacy of Unequal Secularism
To understand the present, one must journey into the past. During British rule, the Madras Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, 1925, was introduced ostensibly to regulate all religious institutions. Yet, the British swiftly amended it to exclude Christian and Islamic institutions after protests, leaving only Hindu temples under state oversight. This selective interference weakened Hindu institutions, curtailing their influence on society while consolidating colonial power. Post-independence, this framework evolved but retained its essential inequity.
Today, state laws like the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (TNHRCE) Act, 1959, continue this legacy, placing Hindu temples under government control. By contrast, Sikh Gurdwaras and Islamic Wakfs enjoy autonomy under the Sikh Gurdwara Act, 1925, and the Wakf Act, 1995. This disparity in governance is not merely bureaucratic; it reflects a deeper, systemic bias.
The governance of Hindu temples differs starkly from that of other religious institutions:
The Sikh Gurdwara Act and the Wakf Act empower community-led boards to manage their institutions. Hindu temples, however, are administered by state-appointed officials, alienating them from their local communities. This lack of representation often results in decisions that prioritize state interests over religious or cultural concerns.
Hindu temples generate substantial revenue from donations and offerings. Yet, under state control, much of this income is diverted to government accounts for secular purposes, such as infrastructure projects. This raises constitutional and ethical questions about the appropriation of religious funds. By contrast, Gurdwaras and Wakfs retain control over their finances, using them for community welfare and religious activities.
State authorities can assume control of Hindu temples under vague accusations of “mismanagement,” often without community consent or clear criteria. These takeovers can last indefinitely, eroding transparency and accountability. Conversely, the Wakf Act limits state interference to specific cases of proven mismanagement, capped at five years.
While Gurdwaras and Wakfs enjoy legal safeguards for their properties, the TNHRCE Act permits state authorities to sell or repurpose temple lands, often without adequate compensation or consultation with the temple community.
The Paradox of Heritage and Secularism
The contrasting example of France underscores India’s failure to balance secularism with cultural preservation. France’s secularism, laïcité, strictly separates church and state yet allows for the protection of religious structures as part of national heritage. In restoring Notre Dame, France demonstrated that secularism need not mean indifference to religious culture. India, however, employs secularism as a tool for uneven governance, where the autonomy of some religions coexists with the state’s paternalistic control over others.
This paradox reveals the flawed premise of Indian secularism: rather than ensuring equal treatment, it often distorts the principle into unequal application. For Hindu temples, this has meant state control without the benefits of state preservation.
To correct this imbalance, India must redefine its approach to secularism, aligning it with both constitutional values and the realities of a pluralistic society: Enact laws granting Hindu temples the same autonomy as Gurdwaras and Wakfs. Community-elected boards, not state-appointed officials, should manage temple affairs. Ensure that temple revenues are used exclusively for religious and community purposes, with transparent mechanisms to prevent misuse.Recognize Hindu temples as heritage sites deserving state support for maintenance and restoration, much like Notre Dame.Restrict state intervention to exceptional cases of proven mismanagement, with clear guidelines and time limits. Foster greater participation of local communities in temple administration, ensuring decisions reflect their values and traditions.
India’s current approach to Hindu temples is a vestige of colonial policy, perpetuating inequality under the guise of regulation. True secularism demands fairness, not favoritism; it requires the state to protect all religions equally while respecting their autonomy.
The restoration of Notre Dame serves as a reminder that secularism and cultural preservation can coexist. India, a land of unparalleled religious and cultural diversity, must aspire to a model that treats all faiths with equal respect. By granting Hindu temples autonomy and ensuring equitable governance for all religious institutions, India can uphold its constitutional commitment to justice and fairness.
In doing so, the nation will not only honor its pluralistic heritage but also reaffirm its promise of secularism—not as an imposition, but as a principle of true equality.
(The author, former PRO of BHU, is renowned globally for his research book on Mahamana Madan Mohan Malaviya’s legacy).
