A continuing threat to Indian unity

Politicians continue to exploit social divisions for electoral gains, while foreign forces seek to undermine India’s unity.

The legacy of British colonialism in India remains a controversial issue, with far-reaching consequences that continue to impact the social fabric of the country. In the contemporary context, this is seen in the political practice of opposition parties, particularly the Indian National Congress (INC).

The colonial era strategically exploited India’s inherent social and cultural diversities, creating fault lines that persist today. These divisions, designed to serve the interests of the British Empire, became embedded in the Indian societal landscape, posing a significant challenge to national unity. After 1857, British authorities, scholars, and missionaries collaborated to divide the world’s Dalits, tribals, and Muslims. Hindu community. This agenda pushed scholars and missionaries to separate Dalits from tribes through conversion and social manipulation, as detailed in Arun Shourie’s seminal work, “Missionaries to India.”

By creating artificial distinctions and fueling social conflict, the British managed to foster alliances and divisions that persisted long after independence. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently highlighted that the Congress was deviating from its founding principles and instead adopting left-wing ideologies. Modi cited the Congress’s initial stand on issues such as Swadeshi, Swavalamban and Panchayat Raj, as well as Mahatma Gandhi’s opposition to religious conversion and cow slaughter.

Gandhi’s post-1920 emphasis on eradicating untouchability, casteism, alcoholism and the oppression of women, as well as promoting national unity, gave way to rhetoric of division. The current Congress leadership, exemplified by Rahul Gandhi, has moved away from these ideals.

Gandhi’s recent visit to the United States sparked controversy as he claimed that Sikhs were facing identity crises in India, despite a lack of evidence. His comments fueled separatist sentiments among Khalistan supporters, echoing tactics employed by British colonialists.

Meanwhile, in Sikh communities, Max Arthur Macauliffe sowed the seeds of separation, as detailed in Khushwant Singh’s book “The Sikh Gurus, Sacred Writings and Authors.” These foreign interventions have fabricated logic, distorted literature, and spread misinformation to implement their divide-and-conquer policies.

Gandhi’s position echoes the British-era concept that India is not a nation but a union of states. This contradicts ancient Indian philosophy, affirming India’s nationhood. The Vedas proclaim “Vayam Rashtra Jagryam Purahitah” (We are the guardians of the nation). Even former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru’s wish to see his ashes immersed in the Ganges reflects his dedication to Mother India. The British exploited these divisions, maintaining persistent fault lines evident in the direct action orchestrated by the Muslim League, culminating in the brutal massacre of 16,000 Hindus in Calcutta alone.

Notable figures like Jaipal Singh Munda and Jogendra Nath Mandal eventually left the Muslim League, recognizing the sinister intentions. Mandal resigned from the Pakistani government and returned to India, highlighting the atrocities faced by Dalits and tribals.

Today, India must acknowledge this history and learn from it, recognizing the artificial divisions created by British colonialism and guarding against similar tactics employed by contemporary forces seeking to exploit these fault lines for political gain. . Citizens and political parties must remain vigilant, prioritizing national unity over sectarian interests.

The Jharkhand Conference, Chota Nagpur in Pakistan in 1946 and the alliance of Jogendra Nath Mandal with the Muslim League illustrate this strategy. British authorities stoked fears among Dalits and tribals, claiming that the “Hindu Raj” would oppress them. This manipulation ignored the historical social cohesion and common struggles of various Indian communities.

Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of a unified India contrasts sharply with the divisive agenda of some contemporary politicians, who seek to resurrect the fault lines of the British era. Gandhi’s emphasis on eradicating social ills and promoting national unity gave way to identity politics and vote bank manipulation.

India’s democratic fabric requires citizens and leaders to recognize and resist these divisive forces, thereby fostering national unity and social cohesion. The country must recognize its complex history and address the lingering consequences of colonialism. In doing so, India can overcome the artificial divisions imposed on it and chart a path towards true unity and progress.

Despite the progress made, India faces significant challenges in overcoming the legacy of colonialism. Politicians continue to exploit social divisions for electoral gains, while foreign forces seek to undermine India’s unity. The rise of social media has amplified divisive narratives, facilitating the spread of misinformation and stoking tensions. The divisive legacy of British colonialism remains a pressing concern for India. By recognizing this history and resisting the forces of division, India can build a more unified future. Citizens must prioritize national interests over sectarian agendas, and leaders must work towards inclusive governance.

(The author is the Joint National General Secretary of the BJP Organisation; views are personal)