Untangling Ideological Landmines: How ‘Socialist’ and ‘Secular’ in the Preamble Impact Our Nation – Insights from a Leading RSS-Linked Weekly

The terms “socialist” and “secular” were added to India’s Preamble during the Emergency period. This move has sparked debate, with critics labeling it a “constitutional fraud” that undermines the country’s traditional values. Recently, the general secretary of the RSS, Dattatreya Hosabale, mentioned the need for a national discussion to reconsider these terms, stating they were never part of the original Constitution.

An opinion piece highlighted that the 42nd Amendment, which introduced these words, was passed during a time when dissent was stifled. Opposition leaders were imprisoned, and the media faced heavy restrictions. Dr. Niranjan B. Poojar, the piece’s author, argues that these terms contradict India’s civilizational identity and democratic ethos. He believes they serve more as political tools than genuine ideals.

The article asserts that removing “socialist” and “secular” is crucial for restoring “constitutional honesty.” It emphasizes that India is not inherently socialist nor an atheistic state but a diverse civilization grounded in spirituality and community.

Critics argue that the inclusion of “secular” has altered the Indian interpretation of secularism. Instead of neutrality, it’s perceived as favoring minority groups while imposing restrictions on Hindu practices. The article claims that secularism, originally conceptualized in Europe, has been misused in India to attack Hindutva and its values.

The discussion around socialism is equally critical. Economists like B.R. Shenoy warned that a socialist framework could lead India to economic stagnation, a prediction that appears to have materialized as bureaucratic control stifled innovation. Statistics show that India’s move towards liberalization in the 1990s exposed the limitations of socialist policies, leading to economic reforms that aimed to activate individual entrepreneurship.

Interestingly, a recent survey showed varied public opinions on these terms. While some advocate for their removal, others believe they reinforce the spirit of inclusivity in the Constitution. This ongoing debate reflects a broader discussion on India’s identity and future direction.

The editorial in the RSS-linked weekly “Panchjanya” encourages not just dialogue but action. It suggests that party leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, should revisit the constitutional amendments made during the Emergency. As the discourse unfolds, it may set the stage for significant changes in the understanding of India’s foundational principles.

As conversations continue, it’s clear that these terms carry historical weight and provoke strong feelings about the vision for India’s future. The push to affirm or revise the Constitution speaks to a deeper desire to define what modern India stands for.



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