Hindus

Social Harmony, RSS Transformative Blueprint

Educational initiatives, cultural engagement, community service and conflict resolution to be vehicles to achieve harmony Dr Shailendra Kumar Pathak In contemporary Bharat, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has emerged as pivot for Bharat’s socio-cultural fabric, advocating principles deeply rooted in fostering social harmony. At its core, RSS promotes a vision of unity transcending religious, linguistic and regional boundaries thereby emphasizing cohesive national identity. Central to its philosophy is the belief in innate unity of all Bharatiyas, irrespective of diversity, aiming to forge a collective strength through cultural rejuvenation and societal uplift. RSS endeavours to cultivate a society where mutual respect, understanding and cooperation prevail among different communities. Through its extensive network of Shakhas (basic units or branches) and socio-cultural initiatives, RSS promotes values of discipline, patriotism and social responsibility aimed at building a harmonious environment conducive to national progress. This commitment to social harmony is underpinned by its efforts in disaster relief, education and healthcare reflecting a holistic approach to building a strong and disciplined nation. Social harmony refers to peaceful and cooperative coexistence of diverse groups within a society. It encompasses mutual respect, understanding and integration of various cultural, religious, and social backgrounds. In a country as diverse as Bharat, achieving social harmony is both a challenge and a necessity. RSS, through its numerous initiatives, strives to bridge gaps between different communities, fostering a sense of national unity and collective identity. Social harmony refers to peaceful coexistence of various groups, characterized by mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation. It is essential for several reasons: Its importance notwithstanding, achieving social harmony is fraught with challenges: RSS, founded in 1925 by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar has always advocated for a united and strong Bharat. Historically, the organization has worked towards mitigating social divisions whether they are based on caste, region, religion, or ethnicity. Sangh’s emphasis on “Hindutva” is often misunderstood; it is not about religious dominance but rather about cultural inclusivity and national pride. Hindutva, in the RSS lexicon, seeks to bring together various cultural strands that make up Bharatiya identity. Since 1983, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has emphasized on concept of “Samarasata” (harmony). Veteran RSS member and thinker Dattopant Thengadi introduced the term in a social context, coining the phrase, “Samajik Samarasata” (social harmony). This led to formation of the Samajik Samarasata Manch in Maharashtra that promoted the idea of equality which was not possible without harmony. The term sparked debates with critics arguing that it perpetuated inequality and Manuvad. However, understanding RSS’s interpretation of Samarasata is crucial. Equality, freedom and fraternity, principles enshrined in Bharat’s Constitution are interconnected. The preamble originally lacked fraternity. But, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar added it, recognizing its importance for national unity. European and American revolutions focused on political freedom and equality, but their societal contexts differed from Bharat’s, where caste-based inequality prevailed. Ambedkar emphasized that mere legal provisions for equality and freedom are insufficient without fraternity—a sense of brotherhood fostering social equality. Fraternity, a state of mind, cannot be legislated but must be cultivated emotionally and metaphysical level, similar to family bonds. RSS aims to foster this sense of fraternity within Hindu society, historically divided by caste and language. Dr. Hedgewar, RSS founder, exemplified this through personal actions, promoting unity without preaching against untouchability. He demonstrated that genuine affinity could bridge social divides. Sri Guruji, second Sarsanghchalak and subsequent RSS leaders continued this mission emphasizing service to marginalized communities. They promoted the idea that Samarasata is not just a principle but a lived practice, embodying freedom, equality and fraternity. RSS focuses on practical experiences of equality and fraternity, rather than mere rhetoric, fostering a deep sense of unity and shared humanity. This lived sense of affinity, cornerstone of RSS’s work, is viewed as essential for true social harmony. RSS, through its various programmes and initiatives, aims to address these challenges and foster social harmony: Educational Initiatives Community Service Cultural Programmes Conflict Resolution RSS’s efforts have yielded positive results in various regions: At National Executive Council of RSS held during March 14-17, 2024, a pledge for fostering social harmony was taken along with four other transformational ideas. Social harmony is bedrock upon which other pillars of the RSS five-fold transformation stand: Centennial & Beyond As RSS heads for its centennial in 2025, it redoubles its commitment to these transformative ideals. Focus is not only on quantitative expansion reflected in increasing Shakhas or basic units but on qualitative growth. Dissemination of national thoughts, mobilization of righteous societal power and active engagement in democracy are central to this mission. Social harmony is not merely an idealistic goal for RSS; it is a necessity for sustainable development of Bharat. In the context of RSS five-fold transformative ideas, social harmony acts as foundation upon which other pillars—environmental conservation, self-reliance, family awakening and civic duty—can be built. While challenges remain, RSS multifaceted approach to fostering unity, respect, and cooperation among Bharat’s diverse communities offers hope to a more harmonious and integrated society. As Bharat continues to evolve, principles of social harmony advocated by RSS will play a crucial role in shaping a nation that is not only economically prosperous but socially cohesive and culturally inclusive. Through education, community engagement, social service and a commitment to shared values, RSS aims to build a society where every individual, irrespective of their background, can contribute to and benefit from collective progress of nation. (Author is a Delhi based researcher, Political Analyst & formerly an Assistant Professor of Political Science)

Geopolitics Human Rights Policy Security World

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Chinese Pangs Continue to Stifle Buddhists

US, India should devise a plan to stop President Xi from hijacking selection of next Dalai Lama and preserve Tibetan culture & resources Brahma Chellaney As Dalai Lama, spiritual leader visits US, to receive medical treatment for his knees, concerns over who will succeed him have become acute. While Tibetans around the world pray that 88-year-old Tenzin Gyatso, 14th Dalai Lama still has plenty of life ahead of him, China is eagerly awaiting his demise so that it can install a puppet successor. Tibetans regard Dalai Lama as living incarnation of Buddha with a total of 13 reincarnations since 1391. When one Dalai Lama dies, the search for next one begins, with a council of senior disciples taking responsibility for identifying the figure based on signs and visions. But in recent years, Chinese government has insisted that only it has the right to identify next Dalai Lama. This would not be first time China selected a leader of Tibetan Buddhism. In 1995, it anointed its own Panchen Lama, whose spiritual authority is second only to that of Dalai Lama, after abducting actual Panchen Lama — six-year-old boy who had already been confirmed by Dalai Lama. Almost three decades later, real Panchen Lama is among the world’s longest-serving political prisoners. China also appointed Karmapa, Tibetan Buddhism’s third most important spiritual leader and head of the Karma Kagyu sect. But in 1999, its appointee Ogyen Trinley Dorje fled to India. The ease with which 14-year-old Karmapa escaped China raised suspicions among Indians about his loyalties. After imposing travel restrictions on him, India decided in 2018 to no longer recognize China-anointed Karmapa as legitimate head of his sect. Now, he and his rival Karmapa Trinley Thaye Dorje have issued a joint statement pledging to cooperatively resolve leadership split in Karma Kagyu sect. But, Dalai Lama is China’s white whale. The incumbent — who was identified as Dalai Lama in 1937, at age two — has been a thorn in the side of Chinese Communist Party (CCP) since Beijing’s 1951 annexation of Tibet. With his relentless espousal of nonviolence, Dalai Lama who won Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 embodies Tibetan resistance to Chinese occupation. (Had Tibet remained self-governing like Taiwan, it would be the world’s tenth-largest country by area.) In his past incarnations, Dalai Lama was not only Tibet’s spiritual leader, but also its political leader, making him a kind of cross between a pope and a president. But the Dalai Lama ceded his political role in 2011 to a Tibetan government-in-exile which is democratically elected every five years by Tibetan refugees living in India and elsewhere. Dalai Lama has declared that he might choose not to be reborn — a decision that would undermine legitimacy of any Chinese-anointed successor. He knows that for China, a Dalai Lama devoted to CCP is much more useful than no Dalai Lama at all. He knows that while he has retained his mental acuity, his body is weakening. In 2016, he underwent radiation therapy for prostate cancer. He says he was “completely cured,” but continues to struggle with his knees. Given his advanced age, more health problems are to be expected. Dalai Lama’s frailty is one reason why his travel schedule has slowed considerably. But it is not the only one: Bowing to Chinese pressure, most countries — including European democracies and Asia’s Buddhist states (except Japan) — are unwilling to grant him entry. Fortunately, some countries have retained their backbones. US is hosting Dalai Lama for knee treatment and India has been his home for more than 65 years. India has officially designated Dalai Lama it’s “most esteemed and honoured guest,” while the Tibetan leader describes himself as a “son of India.” India is home to vast majority of Tibetan exiles and has played a central role in helping to preserve Tibetan culture including by supporting Tibetan-language schools. By contrast, China has been working actively to destroy Tibetan culture and identity, especially since Chinese leader Xi Jinping has been in charge. China’s appropriation of Tibetan natural resources has gone into overdrive with consequences that extend far beyond the Tibetan Plateau. Resource-rich Tibet is a source of fresh water for more than one-fifth of the world’s population and a global biodiversity hotspot. The plateau influences Asia’s weather and monsoonal patterns, as well as Northern Hemisphere’s “atmospheric general circulation” — the system of winds that helps transport warm air from the equator toward higher latitudes, creating different climate zones. US and India should work together to foil China’s plan to handpick next Dalai Lama. Already, America’s Tibetan Policy and Support Act which took effect in 2020, says that “the wishes of the 14th Dalai Lama, including any written instructions, should play a determinative role in the selection, education, and veneration of a future 15th Dalai Lama.” And it calls for sanctions on Chinese officials who interfere with Tibetan Buddhist succession practices. But more must be done. For starters, US President Joe Biden should take the opportunity presented by Dalai Lama’s knee treatment to fulfil a 2020 campaign promise to meet with the spiritual leader. More broadly, Washington should work together with India to devise a multilateral strategy to counter Xi’s plan to capture the more than 600-year-old institution of Dalai Lama. This must include efforts to persuade Dalai Lama to spell out, once and for all, rules that must be followed to identify his successor. (Author is professor emeritus of strategic studies at New Delhi-based Center for Policy Research; fellow at Robert Bosch Academy in Berlin. He is author of “Water, Peace, and War: Confronting the Global Water Crisis” (Rowman & Littlefield, 2013). © Project Syndicate, 2024. This write up was first published in Japan Times)

Geopolitics Hindus Leadership Policy

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Hindu Manifesto 2024

On Saturday, June 8, the British Hindu community officially unveiled the Hindu Manifesto 2024. A long-overdue manifesto will emphasise a shared commitment to the advancement of not just British Hindus but the entire nation. Rohan GIRI With the United Kingdom’s (UK) general election set for July 4, 2024. British Hindus are at a critical juncture. Due to its historical unwillingness to engage in political discourse, the community frequently regarded politics as a taboo subject. Many people do not vote, whereas some vote without thinking about the long-term consequences for themselves, their community, and the nation at large. According to the 2021 UK Census, British Hindus make up about 1.7% of the UK population, or approximately one million people. Despite their small numbers, their contributions to the British economy are unparalleled. As a community, they are among the top taxpayers, and their contributions to UK’s National Health Service (NHS) are imperative, with a large number of doctors, nurses, engineers, and other professionals. Additionally, Indians employ tens of thousands of individuals. British Hindus are a well-educated community that is self-sufficient, independent, and prosperous. Their commitment to prosperity and the rule of law reflects their extremely low numbers in British prisons, accounting for less than 0.3 percent of the total prisoners. Despite the community’s alignment with British values and society, it has minimal influence in British politics. This arena, where policies are formulated, laws enacted, and narratives established, demands a significant voice to shape the future. Unfortunately, British Hindus are often underrepresented or misrepresented in education, academia, media, and politics, both locally and nationally. They frequently face attacks, vilification, and maligning, with no substantial collective response to defend their interests and set the record straight. The next general election presents a crucial opportunity for the community to voice their thoughts. Parliamentary candidates must understand that British Hindu votes cannot be taken for granted. The community seeks fair representation and recognition of its contributions, highlighting Sanātan Hindu Dharma as an asset to Britain. The next general election presents a crucial opportunity for the community to voice their thoughts. Parliamentary candidates must understand that British Hindu votes cannot be taken for granted. The community seeks fair representation and recognition of its contributions, highlighting Sanātan Hindu Dharma as an asset to Britain. It is time for British Hindus to claim their seat at the table, shaping and influencing the country’s future. This involvement is not just a right but also a duty, or Dharma. The Hindu Manifesto 2024, launched by the British Hindu community, contains seven crucial pledges that the community expects from parliamentary candidates and future governments. These assurances are designed to ensure the protection, promotion, and progress of Hindu values and interests within the broader British society. The Seven Assurances of the Hindu Manifesto UK 2024: “Recognising Anti-Hindu Hate as a Religious Hate Crime: This expectation demands the identification and prosecution of groups and individuals that perpetrate anti-Hindu hatred. Recognising such acts as religious hate crimes will ensure that they are taken appropriately and addressed accordingly. Protecting Places of Hindu Worship: Ensuring the safety and purity of Hindu temples and places of worship is critical. This promise aims to preserve these precious areas from damage and attacks. Access to Fairer Education: This involves advocacy for an education system that accurately represents Hindu culture and contributions, as well as ensuring that textbooks are inclusive and unbiased. Equal Representation and Opportunities for Hindus: This protection aims to address Hindus’ underrepresentation in numerous sectors by struggling for equal opportunities in employment, politics, and other areas. Streamlining Immigration: The need for fair and efficient immigration laws that make it easier for people looking to join family in the UK or contribute to the British economy. Healthcare and Social Care: Encourage and enhance access to healthcare and social care services for Hindus while also addressing their special needs and concerns. Acknowledging and Protecting Dharmic Values: It aims to understand and respect the Hindu Dharmic way of life by consulting with the community while legislating on intra-community issues affecting the UK Hindu community, by facilitating infrastructure for religious ceremonies such as marriage and cremation, by commissioning a memorial for Hindu soldiers who served and died for the UK, and by understanding that the connection between UK Hindus and India (Bharat) is spiritual rather than political.” The Hindu Manifesto is a call to all parliamentary candidates and political parties to engage with and support the Hindu community in their respective areas. It has already received endorsements from various parliamentary candidates who have declared their support for the manifesto and its goals. As the general election approaches, the Hindu Manifesto will act as a guide for British Hindus, reminding them of their ability to shape the political landscape and ensure their community’s interests are reflected and safeguarded. This election is a critical opportunity for British Hindus to establish their presence, demand fair representation, and contribute to determining the future of the UK in a way that recognises and appreciates their substantial contributions. The election is an opportunity for British Hindus to turn their contributions, concerns, and expectations into legitimate political influence. The substantial participation and widespread support for the Hindu Manifesto 2024 can demonstrate to political leaders that the community is a force to be reckoned with, worthy of representation and consideration in policies. The ramifications of this participation will extend far beyond election day, potentially ushering in an era where British Hindus’ voices are fundamental to national conversations, their needs are met, and their values are upheld in the halls of government. (Author: Rohan Giri is a journalism graduate from Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) New Delhi, and Manager Operations at CIHS.)

Hindus Judiciary Policy

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THE BHOJSHALA

Located within the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh, India, Bhojshala stands as an ancient Hindu institution devoted to Devi Vagdevi (Saraswati). In recent times, it has become the center of heated debate, with the Archaeological Survey of India conducting a thorough scientific survey of the site. Bhojshala’s significance lies in its multitude of layers, which encompass historical, theological, and cultural dimensions. It stands as a profound exemplar, showcasing the intricate intersections between historical legacy and Bharat’s contemporary faith-based and nationalistic foundations. Introduction Bhojshala stands as a poignant symbol of India’s rich tapestry of religious and cultural heritage. Established in the 11th century by the renowned Raja Bhoja of the Paramara dynasty, it was envisioned as a bastion of Sanskrit learning and Vedic wisdom, epitomising the intellectual zenith of medieval India. However, in the 13th century, the arrival of the Delhi Sultanate, led by the Islamic invader Alauddin Khilji, marked a dark chapter in Bhojshala’s history. The esteemed center of knowledge underwent significant destruction, partly transforming into the Kamal Maula Mosque, an Islamic structure. This event profoundly shaped the religious and cultural landscape of the region. Today, Bhojshala finds itself embroiled in a contentious altercation between Hindu and Muslim communities, each vying for religious rights and laying claim to the site’s historical significance. The annual Hindu festival of Basant Panchami often becomes a flashpoint, with tensions escalating as Muslim groups assert their right to worship at the revered location. Particularly volatile situations arise when Basant Panchami coincides with a Friday, frequently resulting in clashes. Amidst this turmoil, the Archaeological Survey of India, which is currently conducting a comprehensive survey of this heritage site. Yet, as Bhojshala remains a focal point of debate, it represents the broader dynamics of demolition of cultural heritage in India. Historical Background Bhojshala offers a captivating glimpse into India’s opulent medieval era, epitomised by the reign of Raja Bhoja, a luminary among the educated monarchs of the Paramara dynasty. Celebrated for his patronage of the arts, literature, and architecture, Raja Bhoja established Bhojshala as a prestigious center of learning, dedicated to the goddess of wisdom, Saraswati. It flourished as a vibrant hub where scholars and students from diverse backgrounds converged to delve into the study of Sanskrit and the Vedas, leaving an indelible mark on the intellectual and social fabric of the time. However, Bhojshala underwent a significant transformation with the advent of Islamic invaders in the region. During the 13th century, Alauddin Khilji’s expansion into the Indian subcontinent precipitated a notable decline in Bhojshala’s prominence and identity. Once revered for its educational and religious significance, the site was partially repurposed into a mosque, known as the Kamal Maula Mosque. This era marked the onset of a complex stratification of cultural and religious identities, as reflected in the alteration of Bhojshala’s architecture and spiritual essence. The architectural remnants of Bhojshala today bear witness to its storied past. Its design elements echo the Hindu architectural styles of its inception, while Islamic motifs were incorporated during its conversion into a mosque. This amalgamation serves as a poignant symbol of the enduring and far-reaching impact of history and culture on the Indian subcontinent. Bhojshala’s historical significance as a center of learning and religious devotion serves as a poignant testament to Bharat’s cultural richness and the enduring legacy of its ancient civilisation. The ongoing struggle over worship rights at Bhojshala underscores the complex interplay between contemporary religious identities and historical legacies, providing a compelling illustration of the intricate dynamics between history, religion, and politics in shaping the destiny of cultural treasures. Hindu Struggle for Bhojshala The battle to reclaim and safeguard Bhojshala stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Hindus, a struggle ignited in 1305 when the Islamic invader Alauddin Khilji besieged Malwa in present-day Madhya Pradesh. This brutal onslaught ravaged numerous revered Hindu institutions, including Bhojshala. Yet, in the face of adversity, the courageous acharyas (educators) and students stood unwavering, engaging in fierce combat. When 1200 esteemed scholars were presented with the dire ultimatum of conversion or death, their steadfast refusal to abandon their Sanatan Dharma in favour of Islam led to their brutal massacre, their bodies desecrated within the sacred precincts of Bhojshala. The aggression did not cease there. In 1401, under the guise of empire-building, Dilawar Khaw Ghori audaciously attempted to convert Vijay Mandir (Surya Martand Temple), now known as Lat Masjid, and sections of Saraswati Mandir Bhojshala into Islamic structures. This sacrilegious endeavour was further pursued in 1514 by Mehmud Shah Khilji II, who sought to obliterate Bhojshala and eradicate its Hindu legacy by transforming it into a mosque. The tomb of Kamal Maulana (who died in 1310) was erected 204 years posthumously as part of a sinister plot to usurp the Saraswati Temple Bhojshala.Even the British colonialists played a role in this cultural plunder. In 1902, Lord Curzon dispatched the revered statue of Maa Vagdevi to England, a priceless relic of our heritage now confined to the London Museum. In the modern era, the state administration not only turned a deaf ear to cries for justice but actively opposed efforts to liberate Bhojshala and restore the statue of Mata Vagdevi. In a blatant act of suppression, 273 activists were detained in 1996. In May 1997, then-Chief Minister Digvijay Singh controversially issued a decree permitting the performance of Namaz within Bhojshala’s sacred precincts every Friday, sparking widespread democratic protests and demonstrations by the Hindu community. This served as a testament to their unwavering resolve to defend their cultural and religious sanctity. The struggle for Bhojshala transcends mere territorial disputes; it embodies a fervent crusade to revive an ancient bastion of knowledge, science, art, culture, and spirituality. It symbolises the broader battle to reclaim countless Indian and Hindu institutions still unlawfully encroached upon. This is a clarion call to resist cultural erasure and stand steadfast against forces seeking to diminish our rich heritage. Government and Legal Interventions In 1904, recognising the rich historical legacy and illustrious past of Bhojshala, the imperialist British administration granted it

Education Hindus Leadership World

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Ayodhya Unifies Hindus World Over!

For hoi polloi, Bhagwan Ram embodies an ideal leader to emulate. Ram mandir attracts people from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds Ayodhya, an ancient city in Uttar Pradesh, Bharat, has been in focus of religious and political discourse due to Babri structure constructed by Mughal invader Babar over the site of Ram Janmabhoomi, birthplace of Bhagwan Ram, a revered Hindu deity. After years of legal battles and societal tensions, the landmark verdict by Supreme Court of India finally handed over the Ram Janmabhoomi to Hindus and allotted separate land to Muslims, paving the way for the construction of a grand Ram Mandir (temple). This monumental decision has not only brought a sense of closure to a longstanding issue but served as a unifying force for Hindus across the globe. The construction of Ram Mandir has arisen as an illustration of unity among Hindus, transcending regional and cultural boundaries. Devotees from all corners of Bharat as well as globe representing diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds have come together to contribute to construction of the grand temple viewing it as a sacred endeavour that reaffirms their faith and heritage. Ram Mandir is one of the most sacred places in Bharat. Every day, 200,000 devotees have begun to flock Ayodhya to worship Bhagwan Ram Lalla following ‘pran pratishta’ on January 22 this year. From southern sun-soaked states, this holy place strengthens the already strong bond among people of the Bharat in a spiritual harmony. This huge number of devotees also marks a big change in Ayodhya’s growth and devotees thank the government efforts for turning Ram Mandir into a reality. One remarkable aspect of Ram Mandir is that it united Hindus from diverse backgrounds. Devotees from every corner of Bharat, regardless of linguistic, regional or cultural backgrounds have contributed to construction of the temple underscoring the universal appeal of Bhagwan Ram. This unity in diversity is exemplified by the participation of devotees of North to South who have come together in the spirit of shared devotion and purpose. Devotees like Sridhar from Tamil Nadu and Revanthi from Telangana who visited Ayodhya for darshan of Ram Lala, highlight that “the temple transcends regional boundaries. This dispels the myth of a north-south divide and emphasizes the shared cultural heritage of Bharat.” Every Ram devotee regardless of language or geography of south and north actively participated in campaigns such as fundraising, volunteer work and religious ceremonies associated with construction of the Bhagwan Ram temple. This cross-regional association highlights the supreme power of faith and emphasizes the significance of the Ram Mandir as a unifying symbol for Hindus globally. A Maharashtrian family believes the temple transcends state boundaries and uplifts the entire nation. They express a desire for the restoration of temples in Kashi and Mathura destroyed in the past, hoping for their revival under the current leadership. As per Maharishi Valmiki’s Ramayana, Ram is an institution of faith, hope, unity, justice, harmony, discipline, family, etc. and the Ram mandir is a medium to teach those irreplaceable values. Beyond the borders, the construction of the Ram Mandir has garnered immense support and participation from the Hindus globally. A Hindu non-resident Indian family from USA expressed their joy and gratitude for witnessing the reinstallation of Ram Lulla’s idol. A family from Jharkhand with roots in Mithila sees the temple as a source of national pride uniting Hindus worldwide. Hindu diaspora in countries such as United States of America, Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia have contributed financially and emotionally in the Ram Mandir construction and Pran Pratishtha believing it as a historic moment that reaffirms their cultural identity and religious heritage. Ram Mandir stands not only as a physical structure but demonstrates lasting faith and collective aspirations of Hindus across the globe. The Bhartiya system which teaches values and principle of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbkam” envisions whole world as a big family and “Sarve bhavantu sukhinah, Sarve santu niramayah, Sarve bhadrani pasyantu, Ma kaschit duhkhabhag bhavet” translated as “May all beings be happy, may all be free from disease, may all see auspiciousness, may none be afflicted with suffering.” These shlokas convey that human aspirations for prosperity and happiness are universal and there is a common goal that transcends culture and location. At its core, the Ram Mandir is not only a sign of faith but a symbol of hope for communal harmony and shared prosperity. The construction of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya marks a milestone in Bharat’s cultural and religious history. Apart from its grandeur, the temple also symbolizes the collective determination and commitment of Hindus from all over the globe. By bridging the regional divides and creating a sense of harmony among different communities, the Ram mandir symbolizes the eternal legacy of Bhagwan Ram and timeless values that he stands for. Estimated seven million devotees have reportedly had darshan of Ram Lulla in first few weeks it self. (Author Vivek Raina is Manager Outreach & Dissemination at Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies)

Disinformation Fact Sheet Human Rights Misinformation

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Depressed Subgroups Under Notified Indian Minorities

Rohan Giri / New Delhi Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Jains, and Zoroastrians (Parsis) are among the five religious groups or sects that are granted minority religion status under the Indian Constitution. These designated Indian minorities do, however, contain depressed subgroups that experience prejudice on a daily basis from their own community members. This report reflects on the state of affairs of such depressed minorities under notified Indian minorities. (Rohan is a journalism graduate from Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) New Delhi, and Manager Operations at CIHS.)

Disinformation Hindus Human Rights Misinformation

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Persecution of minority Hindu, Sikh and Christian Women and Girls in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan