The next election is at hand. It may become a reality within a few months. Political analysts are trying to visualize what shape things will take if Modi succeeds for the third time. National Register of Citizens (NRC) may be imposed after BJP gets a clear majority. There are clear indications that the ruling party will make best use of its unchallengeable majority both in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. We have seen it in the Parliament how very important legislations, which will have far-reaching consequences, were passed without incisive discussions, on the basis of “voice vote”. It was very sad that the voice did not have wisdom behind it.
India’s constitution is based on justice, liberty, equality and fraternity. But BJP does not believe in equality of all sections of society. The people who have been practicing naked aggression against their own co-religionists, and even now are not ready to give equal respect to Dalits (former Untouchables), cannot change their views overnight. That is why they stoutly repeat the demand for cast census. Sometimes, under the pressure of circumstances, they felt forced to give the post of Deputy Chief Minister to a Dalit person. But he does not get the respect and power given to a Brahmin or high caste person.The hate and discrimination against Muslims, Christians and Dalits can be seen in almost every aspect of national life.
The NRC law may be used against minorities and large chunks of population which would not be able to show proper documents to prove their citizenship. That scenario would be very dangerous when Hindus would be covered under Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) but this privilege would not be available to Muslims who are 15% of population which is about 20 crore. These apprehensions cannot be brushed aside as fearful conjectures. This is a reality which we witness in every aspect of national life. It is quite possible that they may still swear by the Constitution, and may not change it. But they may make rules against the spirit of the Constitution.
They have already created a godi media that will support their moves and dance to their tunes. Judiciary is the best resort to preserve the fundamental rights of the citizens. But we have seen in scores of cases how some courts are delivering judgments according to the wishes of high-ups in places of power. This was seen in the Babri Masjid case, Hijab case and is feared in AMU case also. Even if judiciary take a clear stand for protection of basic rights and constitutional guarantees, an unscrupulous government can use its brute majority to bend the law to suit its prejudices.
The portents ahead are fraught with grave dangers to the democracy, unity and integrity of the country. Therefore, it is time for serious thinking and solid action and comprehensive efforts to protect and save the spirit of Constitution and soul of India. A moment’s delay and one wrong step may lead us to destruction.