A BRIEF HISTORY OF INDIAS PRESENT

1. Introduction

In the tumultuous landscape of India's recent history, a series of riots and acts of violence have marred its social fabric. This disturbing trend, marked by selective enforcement of laws and the rise of extremist ideologies, raises questions about the nation's future. Examining the legacy of Nathuram Godse, the co-founder of Hindu Mahasabha and an advocate of radical Hinduism, sheds light on the underlying factors contributing to the current state of affairs. As we grapple with the consequences of hate-driven politics and violence, it becomes imperative to envision a more inclusive and harmonious path forward.

2. Historical Context and Selective Application of Laws

• The recurring cycles of riots and communal violence in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and other regions have become a grim feature of India's recent history.
• Despite the existence of laws such as Section 144 of the Indian Penal Code to maintain order, the enforcement has often been partial, reflecting political motivations.
• Sections 153A and 295A, designed to prevent religious sentiments from being hurt, and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act have been wielded selectively.
• Such actions undermine the credibility of the legal system and breed further mistrust among communities.

3. The Role of Extremist Ideologies

• Nathuram Godse's influence and his vision of a Hindu Rashtra continue to cast a long shadow over Indian politics.
• Inspired by leaders like V.D. Savarkar, Godse sought to "Militarise Hinduism and Hinduise the Military," aiming to establish a Hindu-dominated nation.
• His newspapers, marked by divisive content, foreshadowed his violent act of assassinating Mahatma Gandhi.
• Godse's demand for an India devoid of Muslims and his drive to reshape the nation along extremist lines have left a lasting impact on the nation's trajectory.

4. Shifts in Political Allegiances and Lack of Accountability

• The political landscape is marred by a lack of consistency and accountability. Key figures have been observed shifting allegiances for short-term gains, leading to a climate of uncertainty and mistrust.
• Parliamentary debates have become fragmented, with "interruptions" and "comments expunged" disrupting the flow of discourse. This erosion of transparency and credibility makes it difficult to gauge the intentions and motivations of political leaders.

5. Historical Heritage and Manipulation

The manipulation of historical monuments and artifacts reflects a troubling narrative. While some archaeological efforts have unearthed selective layers of history, others have ignored significant aspects, such as the Buddhist era. This approach raises questions about the preservation of India's diverse heritage and the potential biases that shape its interpretation.

6. Envisioning a Path Forward

• To move beyond the current climate of extremism and hate, India must reclaim its commitment to unity in diversity.
• Strengthening democratic institutions and reinforcing the rule of law can help restore faith in governance. A renewed emphasis on education that promotes critical thinking and pluralism can counter the propagation of divisive ideologies.
• In addition, promoting inter-community dialogue and fostering a culture of empathy and tolerance are essential to heal wounds and build a more harmonious society.

7. Conclusion

The specter of hate and extremism that looms over India's recent history necessitates a collective effort to reshape the nation's trajectory. By confronting the legacy of figures like Nathuram Godse, acknowledging the shortcomings of selective law enforcement, and fostering an inclusive vision for the future, India can emerge as a beacon of diversity, unity, and progress. Only through a concerted commitment to these ideals can the nation overcome its present challenges and usher in an era of lasting harmony.