AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi, during a significant debate in the Lok Sabha, asserted that associating. Patriotism with a single religion or identity goes against the fundamental tenets of India's Constitution. He emphasized that such practices would inevitably lead to increased division within society, thereby undermining national cohesion. Owaisi made these remarks while participating in a discussion on '150 years of the National Song Vande Mataram,' where he highlighted the Constitution's guarantee of equal rights to all citizens, stressing that these rights aren't tied to any religious identity.
Constitutional Principles of Equality and Freedom
In his address, Owaisi referenced the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, noting that. It begins with 'We the people,' rather than the name of any deity. This underscores the principle that India is a secular nation where all citizens are equal, regardless of their religious beliefs. He articulated that the Constitution bestows equal rights upon all citizens, and. These rights can't be linked to any specific religious identity or symbol. This principle forms the bedrock of India's democratic framework, ensuring the freedom of every individual to practice their faith and beliefs. Linking patriotism to a singular religious identity, he argued, directly contravenes these foundational principles, fostering an environment of exclusion and discrimination.
'Vande Mataram' as a Loyalty Test
The Hyderabad MP unequivocally stated that 'Vande Mataram' shouldn't be used as a test of loyalty, while he argued that while loving one's country is natural, connecting patriotism to a religious ritual or text is unconstitutional. Citing legal precedents, Owaisi stressed that 'Vande Mataram' shouldn't be forcibly imposed as a measure of one's allegiance. He believes that such coercion can breed distrust and alienation among citizens, which is detrimental to a strong and unified nation. The essence of patriotism, he implied, lies in adherence to constitutional values and not in ceremonial compliance.
Freedom of Thought and Worship: The Foundation of Democracy
Owaisi highlighted that the freedom of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship, enshrined in the Preamble of the Constitution, forms the very foundation of Indian democracy, while he asserted that the country can't be the property of any single religion but is a shared home for people of all faiths and identities. This freedom ensures that every citizen can express their ideas and beliefs. Without fear or compulsion, which is vital for a vibrant and inclusive society. To link patriotism with a specific religious identity, he reiterated, infringes. Upon these fundamental freedoms and weakens the social fabric of the nation.
Indian Muslims' Opposition to Jinnah
During his speech, Owaisi also shed light on the history of Indian Muslims, stating that they were staunch opponents of Muhammad Ali Jinnah. He emphasized that this was precisely why they chose to remain in India rather than migrate to Pakistan, a decision that served as a testament to their profound loyalty and patriotism towards India. He also pointed out that during the debates in the Constituent Assembly, changes related to 'Vande Mataram' were considered, but the proposal to begin the Preamble with the name of a deity was never accepted, further illustrating India's secular ethos.
Historical Context and Political Alliances
Owaisi also referenced a historical context from 1942, stating that some political ancestors of those who are often praised had formed coalition governments with Jinnah's Muslim League in the North-West Frontier Province, Sindh, and Bengal. He further added that these very governments recruited 1. 5 lakh Muslims and Hindus into the British Indian Army to fight for the British during World War II. By using this historical reference, Owaisi questioned the complex facets of patriotism and political allegiance, suggesting that history is often selectively presented. He underscored the necessity of drawing a clear distinction between loving one's country and linking patriotism to. A religious ritual or book, reiterating that the latter is unconstitutional and creates unnecessary divisions within society.
