A Sovereign, Socialist, Secular Republic ?????????
We declare that “India is a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular Republic” said our forefathers in the beginning of constitution. India has a come a long way since 26th Jan 1950.However I have started doubting all the 3 characteristics in which union republic of India has been described. Events in last few days have added to my suspicion.
First let us take a look at Sovereignity. The French warship Le Clemenceau clarified my all doubts about the sovereignty which we all are so proud off. When it was crystal clear that the warship was full of asbestos (a carcinogenic material),our government could not order it back. A country like Egypt did’nt allowed it through Suez canal. PIL was filed, supreme court had to step in, but the result was one more committee set up. Only when French court ordered it, the issue was resolved.
When queen Elizabeth II visited India she did’nt had any visa for India visit and it is said the it was not required.
The convicts in Purulia arms drop case, were released by central government when Russian president requested (???) to do so.
There are many such instances when a sane person will really doubt the sovereign state.
Even Dr Ambedkar in his speech to the constituent assembly said that we have designed a document for India’s future. But the question is whether India’s independence after a war torn history of almost a millennium continues or it is again subjugated by foreign yoke.
Starting from Muhammad Bin Kasim’s sindh invasion in 712 AD to 1947 AD, there have been more moments of sorrow than happiness. The liberty which we take for granted has come after a long struggle and sacrifices. We as citizen of India might be seeing the longest period of “Free India.”
Although you might doubt imperialism in 21st century but we are living near 2 American colonies (Afghanistan & Iraq) and the tendency to subjugate others (American or Islamic) still exists and has a following.
So “Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty”
Will discuss the other 2 in next blog.
