It was disturbing to read the article, “ >Politics without opposition ” (Oct. 9). It was not Muslim invaders who introduced untouchability; rather, untouchability has been practised since the Vedic period. There has also been a rise in communal tensions and discrimination against the lower castes ever since the BJP came to power.
Rahul Chimurkar,
New Delhi
With the BJP government in power, the so-called fringe elements are making a bold attempt to represent mainstream society. A majoritarian agenda is being imposed on the country in a clandestine manner by projecting this as being a nationalist and pro-development ideology. The slogan of “unity in diversity” is fast fading, and attempts are on to portray any diversity as a sign of being anti-national. Though the idea of development is an inclusive one, we cannot forget that communal harmony is a prerequisite for material progress.
Kiran Jose,
Pala, Kerala
Like many Indians who had initially opposed Mr. Modi becoming the Prime Minister, I have eventually warmed up to his efficient and effective leadership. However, I am worried by the increasing promotion of India as an exclusively Hindu country and culture. We hear about Mr. Modi’s Hindu religious fasts, and talk of all of us having “Hindu” DNA, when science tells us we all have human DNA originating in Africa. In addition to all this, Doordarshan broadcasts live, a speech by the RSS leader. Whatever happened to India’s secularism enshrined in the Constitution? There is no point in having a Swachh (clean) India, if Indians are not Swatantra (free). To echo Rabindranath Tagore’s words, let India awake to a new heaven of freedom where the mind is without fear and the head is held high, regardless of one’s caste, religion and social status as determined by birth and gender.
Rajiv Thind,
Brisbane, Australia
