Republic Day holds profound significance as it marks the pivotal juncture when the Republic of India was officially established, signifying the enactment of the Constitution on January 26, 1950. The essence of this foundational document is encapsulated in the Constitution’s Preamble, which boldly pronounces India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic.
At its heart, the Constitution lays out an ambitious framework, outlining a visionary set of objectives. Its primary goals are to ensure justice, liberty, and equality for every citizen, while simultaneously fostering a sense of fraternity to bolster the unity and integrity of the nation. The principles embedded in the Constitution serve as the guiding light for the governance and functioning of our democratic society.
As we celebrate the 75th Republic Day, what are young people saying about how their rights are protected by the constitution?
1. “This Fascist Regime Forced Me To Pause My Life As A Queer Muslim Woman”
Kinza shares a personal narrative rooted in the complexities of living in Meerut, a city with historical significance and a turbulent communal past. She sheds light on the pervasive Islamophobia, detailing instances of discrimination faced by their family. Living in constant fear and uncertainty, the author reveals the emotional toll of existing in an environment where every decision is influenced by political considerations.
“My university was chosen according to the sense of safety my parents felt at that time. I could have had access to the best colleges in Delhi if my parents weren’t a minority, but yes, the 2013 election changed a lot for us; even his business changed; the right-wing wave of hate hit a lot of minorities’ businesses, and my father wasn’t the only one to suffer,” she writes.
2. “Another Sexual Assault In BHU And No Action Taken, As A BHU Student I Want Answers”
Chetna and Roshan discuss a shocking incident of sexual assault on a female student that occurred within the campus premises of Benaras Hindu University. The article sheds light on the absence of gender sensitization committees and the disregard for guidelines aimed at preventing sexual harassment. Chetna and Roshan call for justice for the survivor, holding the administration accountable, and implementing comprehensive security measures without imposing further restrictions on students.
“The idea of university is about liberal atmosphere, critical thinking and free lifestyles where there is no space for captivity and separation. Walls never ensure anyone’s safety. The frequency of such cases in campuses are a result of many factors but the impunity given to the perpetrators is one of the most crucial factors,” they write.
3. Struggle In Obtaining Term Insurance As Queer Couples
As we step into 2023, it is disheartening to observe that the battle for equality and recognition of LGBTQIA+ couples in India persists. This piece follows a personal journey of a gay man attempting to register their partner as a nominee for term insurance. The story unfolded as a series of rejections and disappointments for them as a gay couple.
“The struggle faced by queer couples in obtaining term insurance in India serves as a reminder of the urgent need for legal, societal, and institutional changes. It is time for the insurance industry to break free from outdated norms, acknowledge diverse relationships, and respect the rights and well-being of the LGBTQIA+ community throughout the year,” they write.
4. “Exploring My Intersections As Dalit Queer Neurodivergent”
The author reflects on their various marginalized identities, including being born into a paranoid Dalit family, experiencing abuse within the family, and struggling with societal expectations. They describe the challenges faced due to their gender, caste, and neurodivergence, highlighting instances of abuse and societal discrimination.
“To fit into that itself is a lot for a woman and having to access this neurotypical heteronornamative men designed spaces with layers of my neurodivergence, my queerness, my dalitness and all the risks and illness that’s accumulated because of my caste and society’s conditions is a very unique path,” Pallavi writes.
5. “Fundamental Rights Don’t Exist Here”: Woes of Kashmiri Students
Chaitali reflects on her recent visit to Kashmir where she witnessed the impact of conflict on the lives of Kashmiris. Her conversations with Kashmiri students reveal a pervasive sense of hopelessness and a desire to leave the region due to a lack of trust from mainland Indians. The narrative underscores the complexity and challenges faced by Kashmiris, urging for understanding, empathy, and a reevaluation of preconceived notions.
“They (Kashmiris) were not angry, but hopeless. They no longer have dreams because they feel there is no point in dreaming, as they won’t ever get fulfilled. They all want to go away, out of the country because “Indians” don’t trust them. And I don’t blame them but us,” she writes.
6. I May Not Be Marriage Material, But Law Of Land Shouldn’t Say That
The author notes the societal contradiction in India, where the importance of marriage is ingrained from childhood, yet the same society rejects adults who express a desire to be with someone of their choice. The burden to radicalize oppressive institutions is questioned, and the desire for equal rights is highlighted. The piece concludes with a call for not depriving queer Indians of basic rights, emphasizing the importance of legal recognition.
“Given that marriages and weddings are such an essential, undeniable part of the Indian socio-cultural fabric, imagine what being excluded from such an all-pervasive institution and celebration leads to… Shouldn’t two consenting adults have the right to declare their love to the world if they so wish to?” Prithvi asks.
7. “इस देश के राष्ट्रवाद के खांचे में रोहित के सपनों की कोई जगह नहीं थी”
This article took a look back at the institutional killing of Rohith Vemula and the lack of freedom for Dalit students on India’s campuses. The author Abhinava raises questions on the popular notion of nationalism and asks if it allows someone like Rohith Vemula to aspire to have the same opportunities and agency to dream a future for themselves.
Abhinava writes, “रोहित की आत्महत्या और उसके आख़िरी ख़त ने हमारे 66 साल के लोकतंत्र के सामने एक बहुत बड़ी लकीर खींच दी है. निस्संदेह, ऐसे अनेक मौके आये हैं जब विभिन्न समूह/लोग न्याय से महरूम कर दिये गये हैं लेकिन न्याय का न मिल पाना एक बात है और न्याय से नाउम्मीद हो जाना दूसरी बात। अगर 28 साल के एक शोधरत दलित नौजवान के न्याय की उम्मीद और सपनें इस कदर टूट जायें कि उसे लिखना पड़े “मैं एक लेखक बनना चाहता था, कार्ल सगान की तरह सायेंस का लेखक, लेकिन अंत में मैं सिर्फ एक ख़त लिख पा रहा हूं… तो हमें मान लेना चाहिये कि हम एक बेहद खतरनाक दौर में प्रवेश कर चुके हैं।”
8. As An Ex JNU Student, The Banning Of Protests On Campus Worries Me
In the context of ongoing attacks on dissent and freedom of expression by authorities, the author emphasizes the crucial role of dissent in democracy, whether within university spaces or across the country. Ishita argues that suppressing dissent impedes students’ development as active citizens and threatens the democratic essence of educational institutions.
“JNU’s doors wouldn’t have been open to students from all walks of life. And do you know what stopped JNU from becoming another private money-sucking black hole? The resistance shown by students and the protests led by students and professors. When you take away the right to dissent, you ruin the ability of students to become active citizens,” she writes.
9. APU Student Suicide Exposes The Disturbing Mental Health Realities In Campuses
The article discusses a tragic incident at Azim Premji University in Bengaluru where a B.Sc. student named Ashwin Nambiar died by suicide. The student’s brother, Ashish Nambiar, took to Twitter to express concerns about the university’s lack of communication with the family after 17 days of the incident. The incident raises questions about the campus’s support infrastructure and the broader issue of mental health neglect in Indian universities. It also calls for accountability and open conversations about mental health in educational institutions.
“This appalling incident exposes a grim reality around how Indian campuses blatantly disregard students’ mental well-being. Despite their hollow claims of providing mental health resources, the truth surfaces when students in genuine distress seek help and they are callously ignored and left to fend for themselves. It’s a disgraceful betrayal of the very promises institutions make to their students,” Ishika writes.
10. Sakshi Malik’s Tearful Exit: A Struggle For Justice In India
Olympic champion Sakshi Malik announced her retirement from wrestling, marking a symbolic stand against the lack of justice for female athletes facing harassment in India. Malik’s retirement underscores the challenges faced by women seeking justice when accused individuals hold political influence, raising questions about institutional commitment to protecting female athletes in India.
“Malik’s retirement poses a troubling question about the state of justice for women in India, particularly when the accused wields high prestige and political influence. Despite Singh’s resignation from the WFI, the image of him adorned with garlands, triumphantly flashing the victory sign beside the new president, sheds light on the persisting power dynamics,” Ayesha explains.
As we celebrate the 75th Republic Day, it is imperative to reflect on the diverse issues encapsulated in the personal narratives and societal challenges discussed. From struggles against fascism, sexual assault, and discrimination faced by marginalized communities to battles for LGBTQIA+ rights, mental health neglect on campuses, and the fight against harassment in sports, these stories mirror the complex tapestry of India’s democratic landscape.
The Constitution’s ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, as highlighted on this historic day, serve as a stark reminder that the journey towards a truly democratic India demands addressing these multifaceted issues. The narratives underscore the urgent need for a collective commitment to ensuring the protection and empowerment of every citizen, regardless of their identity. Republic Day should inspire a renewed dedication to fostering a society where justice prevails, rights are upheld, and the democratic spirit thrives in its truest sense. Only by addressing these challenges can India truly embody the principles enshrined in its Constitution.