Indian Radical Humanist Association( IRHA) was constituted in 1969.
It aims at bringing renaissance in India with Humanist philosophy. Radical
Humanism was developed by M.N.Roy (1887-1954). Large number of
intellectuals discussed the philosophies, modern science, reason, and
revolution in various study camps and as a result Radical Humanism
emerged. It is also called Integral Humanism; New HumanismM.N.Roy was
elected as vice President of International Humanist and Ethical Union in
1952 in Amsterdam. Erich Fromm acclaimed and recommended the two volumes
of Roy`s magnum opus “Reason Romanticism and Revolution” so that people
can understand better about Renaissance. Fromm mentioned this in his book
“Sane Society”. M.N.Roy disbanded his party The Radical Democratic party
in 1948 in favor of Humanist movement. Roy was very critical of political
party system, which robs the soverignity of people. Roy elaborately
suggested decentralization of power, ethical norms, cooperative economic
system, and scientific education and pyramidical structure of
administration where power is always with people.
Several eminent
persons put their efforts to organize through Radical Humanist
association. Mr. Justice V.M .Tarkunde, Mr C.T.Daru, Mr. Justice Avula
Sambasivarao, Mr M.V.Ramamurthy, Ms Indumati Parikh,and Prof Jayanti Patel
worked as chairmen of the IRHA at various periods.V.M.Tarkunde resigned as
judge of Bombay High Court to work for Radical Democracy. He put all his
efforts for civil liberties, human rights and decentralization of power.
New executive for 2005:Indian Radical Humanist
Association(IRHA)
Mr Justice Raghavendra A. Jahagirdar, retired judge
from Bombay High Court was elected as president of IRHA on 16 december
2004 at Bombay, M.N.Roy Human Development campus.
Mr. Narisetti
Innaiah was elected as General Secretary of IRHA.
Ms Santa Singh,
political science professor was the joint secretary.
Radical
Humanist
Radical Humanist a monthly journal is edited by R M Pal. Its
Managing Editor is Sangeeta Mall. The Journal was founded by M.N.Roy. It
has long history in molding the intellectual opinion of the several people
in India. After Roy the journal was edited by Ellen Roy, V.B.Karnik, Shib
Narayan Ray, Professor A.B.Shah, Justice Jahagirdar Raghavendra, Justice
V.M.Tarkkunde, Sunil Bhattacharya.
Indumati Parekh built M N Roy campus
in Bandra East, Mumbai, India which has become center for humanist
activities. International humanist conferences were held here.
Professor Shib Narayan Ray edited the selected works of M N Roy which
were brought by Oxford Publishers in 4 volumes. The biographies of M N Roy
were written by V B Karnik, Shib Narayan Ray, Samaren Roy,
G.P.Bhattacharjee, N.Innaiah, J.B.H.Wadia, and several others. The
bibliography of M N.Roy works were compiled by Prof Ganguly in Kolkatta
and Mr N.Innaiah.
Thousands of books were written on Roy and his
philosophy throughout the world.
2005 activities:
IRHA commenced its activities in 2005 with
international convention on what is Secularism and contemporary
situation.
On 14 Jan Justice Raghavendra A Jahagirdar, the president of
Indian Radical Humanist Association, did the inauguration. He gave
prepared and extempore speech on Indian attitude towards
secularism.
Mr. Justice Jayachandra Reddi the chairman of Press council
India attended as chief guest and gave speech supporting the cause of
secularism.
Ms Santa Sinha, Magassasay awardee explained the need to
educate children in secular way and necessity to bring all children to
schools.
Lars Gule narrated the situation of secularism in Norway and
Europe.
Mr. Vikram exposed the miracles of god men by distributing the
holy ash and bringing Siva Lingam.
Jaya and Malini of Jana Vignana
Vedika , The humanist cultural group, Saraiah scientific forum students,
Manava Vikasa troupe sang secular songs.
Mr. Prakash Narain humanist
from Delhi presented paper on Secularism and Hindutva. Mr. V K Sinha
presided over.
In evening session Mr. Vijayam, atheist center, Mr.
Ramana murthy, editor vijaya viharam, B.Kirkhart, atheist leader from USA
spoke.
Sangeeta Mall managing editor of Radical Humanist presided
over.
Mr. Vikram exhibited the spoon bending frauds.
Cultural groups
sang songs.
Mr. N.Innaiah, Mr. G RR Babu conducted the convention as
directors.
The convention was well attended. Mr. Subbarao, M brought
out some booklets, which were released by Mr. V K Sinha. Book exhibition
was arranged.
Delegates from Andhra, Kerala, West Bengal, Gujarat,
Delhi, Bombay attended.
15 Jan 2005
On the second day the convention
commenced with the songs of Saraiah group and Mr. K.Kesavarao, the
president of Andhra Pradesh Congress committee spoke the need for
asserting secularization in India.
Mr. Roy Brown, the IHEU president
stressed the need for separation of church and state.
Ms Chandralatha,
novelist spoke on rural life in Andhra where Jim Herrick, the humanist
from UK dealt with secularizing the art.
Ms Subbamma, the humanist
narrated her achievements through secular movements.
N.Innaiah co
coordinated the meeting. B.Sambasivarao the secretary of Manava Vikasa
Vedika spoke.
GRR Babu warned the dangers of ruling party’s attitude
towards communal problems.
Prof Desai from Gujarat explained the
carnage in the state while Mr. Kuruvella Daniel revealed the secrets of
Makara jyothi in Sabara malai.
Question answer session followed.
The
media covered the convention. Andhra Jyothi published interviews of
prominent humanists on 16 (City Life).TV9, ETV2, Maatv, Teja, Citicable
covered the proceedings. Kuruvella Daniel interview on Sabarimalai fraud
was telecasted in TV9.
The convention opined that religion should be
separated from state and the people in power must keep their personal
religious faith as private matter without bringing into office. Government
should confine to administering the money matters but should not observe
religious performances at the time of inauguration, opening ceremonies,
oath taking, and so on so forth.
Press meet on faith healing
FARA, IRHA and JVV held a
press meet on 21 jan 2005 in JVV office.The CD of James Randi`s exposure
of Poppof was screened. A press note was circulated challenging the faith
healers to take up the case of Mr Jayapal redid, the minister for
information who is suffering with polio and if the faith healers can cure
him then all the rationalists will believe faith healing and join them.
The note explained how the emotionally surcharged atmosphere of
congregations created INFERON which might temporarily relieve pain but
will come back with double intensity.The Christian faith healers are
luring the poor people and cheating them with miracle cures through
prayers.
Memorandum
toMr Sushil Kumar Shinde, Governor of Andhra pradesh; Nr
M.S.Satyanarayana, Minister for Endowments and K.Janareddi, Minister for
Home Government of Andhra Pradesh, India
Indian
Radical Humanist Association, Federation of Atheist Rationalist Humanist
associations (FARA), Jana Vignana Vedika submits this memorandum for
immediate action.
The state of
Andhra Pradesh is infected with god men, holy women, Christian faith
healers; black magicians who thrive on the ignorance, innocence and faith
of people. We come across several instances of cheating, looting money
properties of people. They get exemptions from income tax, wealth tax, and
property tax in the name of religion. They also escape responsibility,
answerability to their ill-gotten wealth both from abroad and within the
country. Often some of them indulge in crimes and escape under the garb of
spiritualism. The sufferers are devotees.
Hence we request the
government to stop these nefarious activities in so-called
religious-spiritual dens. We request for the following action.
1. A survey
of all the ashrams, mutts, peetams, and church centered faith healing
places, wakf board frauds with full details .The details should include
the past life of the so called holy persons, their crime record,
properties acquired.
2. What are the present activities of these holy
persons, which includes collection of amounts from devotees, and abroad.
If so is there any accountability for that. Is there permission to receive
foreign money?
3. If the religious places involve in business activity
including manufacturing, sale, advertising, does it cover income tax,
wealth tax, property tax, and sales tax? If not will the government
immediately bring them under taxation.
4. Is the religious place open
for public always or do they maintain secrecy of admission, privacy for
certain persons? If so, what is the need for secrecy for spiritual
religious bodies which thrive on public money?
… Page
2…
5. Are the
ministers, officials, judges, visit these holy places at the cost of
government money or keep the visit as purely private affair. If government
money is involved, is it not violation of constitutional principles?
6.
When the holy persons claim to cure diseases with their drugs, prayers,
supernatural powers, does it not attract the act of drugs and magical
remedies? Will the government, especially the medical department take note
of this and take action?
7. The police department should take action
sue motto against these holy persons when they indulge in faith healing,
spreading superstitions, claiming cure for diseases with spiritual
supernatural powers so that innocent people are saved.
8. Will the
government consider avoiding public holidays for religious festivals so
that those who observe the religious day may avail the optional holiday
and others may work normally? Thus imposing religious faith on all people
may be avoided.
9. An act may be planned like prohibition of
superstitions (as contemplated in Maharastra)
10. Will the government
avoid inviting the holy religious persons to inaugurations, openings, and
oath taking ceremonies of official functions and keep them open to
all.
Here is the
list of persons, mutts, holy places, Christian faith healers, and ashrams
to be taken up by the government:
Satya Sai
Baba of Puttaparthi, Anantapur
China Jiyyar Swami,
Kalki Baba of
Chittoor district
Ganapathi Satchitananda Swamy (Datta
Peetadhipathi)
Vijayasri Devi of Nellore
Sundara
Chaitanya of Rajamundry
Viswanathaji
Kaleswara baba
Bala Sai Baba
of Kurnool
All Christian faith healers in the state
Rev Paravastu of
Rajamundry
John David of Gutti
Wakf Board
Bandlamma of
Kavali
Ramdhoot of Ongole
Shirdi Sai temple trustees
…Page
3…
Ayyappa
temples in the state
Mehar baba temples in the state
Shirdi Sai
temple trustees in the state
Chinmayananda ashrams in the
state
Maharshi Mahesh yogi properties in the state
Brahma kumaris in
the state
Ravi Shankar properties in the state
Matha Amrithananda
mayi properties in the state
Raghavendra swami temple in
Kurnool
Naked holy woman in Kurnool
Andal matha properties in
Hyderabad
Jillella mudi amma properties
Tajuddin baba
Aslam
baba
Desi guruvulu who travel in telengana from rayalaseema
Black
magicians in the old city of Hyderabad
Kurtal ashram
Siva bala yogi
of cuddapah
Christian missionary activities in the state
Note of
Explanation:
Satya Sai
Baba affairs: The State of Andhra Pradesh got bad name in the eyes of
world due to lack of action against Puttaparthi Prasanti Nilayam of Sai
Baba despite serious allegations of sexual abuse, murders, money affairs,
false claims of paranormal powers.
UNESCO advised the world not to send
delegates to the educational conference held under the auspices of
Puttaparthi ashram.
In view these things the state government ought to
have taken action.
Shirdi Sai
trustees:
Andhra Pradesh pilgrims are attracted to Shirdi in large
number. Temples emerged in the name of Shirdi Sai. They are not covered by
Endowments department. Devotees are cheated by Shirdi Sai Trustees in many
ways. There is no photo of Sai baba. They show the photo of Abdul baba, a
servant of Sai Baba and propagate as though it belongs to Sai baba. The
trustees did not publish the Sufi sayings of Sai baba lest the devotees
should think that he is not Hindu and thought that they may lose income.
Some trustees in Maharastra were arrested for indulging in corruption. The
temple trustee activities in Andhra Pradesh should be checked.
…Page
4…..
Bala Sai
baba
The newly emerged Bala Sai Baba in Kurnool was exposed by the
media for his corrupt activities. Proper inquiry should be conducted at
once.
Brahmakumris
Enormous properties were donated to Brahma
kumaris in Hyderabad by Telugu Desam government and also they enter into
government offices with full liberty.
Matha Amrithananada Mayi
This
hugging holy matha started acquiring properties in the state. Already one
estate was established in Mahendra hills, secunderabad. Her false claims
were already exposed by Srini Pattathanam, in Kerala.
China Jiyyar
Swami
Often he indulges in government affairs. He has already
accumulated enormous properties. He performed one Yagnam for late N T
Ramarao-Lakshmi Parvathi claiming that the result of yagnam will get them
son! He also involved in controversial matters in Tirumala.
Kalki
baba
He accumulated huge properties. He maintain website too.
Rationalists exposed his activities but the government did not take any
action.
Ram dhoot
He encroached the forest lands near ongole-kavali
high way. Rationalists complained about it. The previous Telugu Desam
government received complaint when Ayyanna Patrudu was forest minister who
visited the ashram site. But no action was taken.
Old city is full of
black magicians. Poor people are suffering under the influence of these
cheaters.
Ayyappa swami devotees are cheated
In Kerala on the day of
Makara Sankrati the Makara jyoti is lit with the help of electricity
department, forest department and endowments department of Kerala. No body
is allowed to the hill top so that the secret is kept out of reach.
Rationalists who exposed the truth of litting camphor and make belief
story is concocted as though divine light is coming on that day, were not
allowed to go to the other hill of Sabari Malai.
Several devotees are
not told the truth in Andhra but they still believe the false story of
divine light.
… Page
5…
Christian
faith healers
Several faith healers in the state often open
congregations and attract thousands of poor people with false claim of
curing diseases. Those patients are never tested by doctors before the
cure or after the cure. The cheating is going on.
The Christian
missionaries are getting enormous amounts from abroad. Some of them show
hostels, schools, hospitals and charity institutions as cover to their
nefarious activities. Tandur child murders were notorious incidents where
Christians are involved. These Christian missionaries attract persons in
power and get properties. They must be checked.
We are mentioning few
examples only but all holy loafers are to be observed and checked on time
to save people from their clutches.
N.INNAIAH
T.V.RAO
Co- Ordinator Secretary
FARA Jana Vignana Vedika
N.VIKRAM
B.SAMBA SIVARAO
M.SUBBA RAO
M.CHANDRA
SEKHAR
Alternative medicines:
Andhra Jyothi
Telugu daily published an item on 8 march 2005 in City Life column written
by N.Innaiah, General Secretary Indian Radical Humanist Association, with
the caption “ unscientific alternative medicines to be banned”. The
editors also welcomed discussion on it.
High-level committee of experts under the chairmanship of
Director General of Indian Council of Medical Research Dr N.K.Ganguly
examined and concluded that alternative medicines are unscientific and
should not be practiced. This was done due to directions given by the High
Court Delhi when Electropathy, Electro homeo people claimed for money from
government. In 1998 the committee was constituted. The report was
submitted in May 2003.
The essential
criteria for scientific test:
The system should have its own
fundamental principles of health and disease with a comprehensive system
of health care and not restricted to a
Few diseases only.
The system
should have substantial literature on concepts, etiology, diagnosis and
management of diseases like textbooks, including pharmacopoeia and
formularies.
The system should be recognized in the country of its
origin or in any other country, where it was currently practiced.
The
system should have documented information on the uniqueness of modalities
of treatment may it be drug, devices or any other method such as diet,
massage, and exercise?
The system should have standardized methods of
preparation of drugs/devices with clear-cut quality control
procedures.
The experts panes scrutinized systems: Reiki, acupuncture,
magnetotherapy, pranic healing, hypnotherapy, colour therapy, aroma
therapy, music therapy, reflexology, gems and stone therapy,
electrotherapy, electro-homeopathy, urine therapy, auto-urine
therapy.
These systems failed to satisfy the basic requirements of
scientific methods.
Union Health ministry( Sushma Swaraj) was the
minister) approved the recommendations of the expert’s panel.
No
institute should offer courses in these systems and confer degrees or
diplomas.
No body that practices these systems should call themselves
as “doctor”.
The Supreme Court asked the Central government to
legislate on the conclusions of experts panel.
Justice Y.K.Sabharwal
and Justice D.M.Dharmadhikari directed the Central government on 25 Nov
2004 that the legislation should be done within two months.
Humanists
and Rationalists demanded
The state
government to immediately implement the conclusions of the experts and
wide publicity should be given so that people will become conscious about
the unscientific nature of the alternative systems. Care should be taken
to prevent the fake doctors to close their clinics and help the patients
not to become victims in the hands of these quacks.
M.N.Memorial
lectures: 2005
M.N.Roy`s
birthday falls on 21 March. To commemorate his birthday few lectures are
organized.
Dr A.D.Sawant, Pro Vice Chancellor of University of Mumbai
gave talk on Environmental Problems of India. Justice Raghavendra R
Jahagirdar, president of IRHA presided over on 21 march 2005 in western
regional instrumentation center, Bombay University Kalina
campus.
Hyderabad: Dr
N.Jayaprakash Narayan, national co ordinator of Lok Satta delivered a talk
on The State, The market and the citizen. Dr N.Innaiah, general Secretary
of IRHA presided over on 2o march 2005 in Press club, Hyderabad.
New
Delhi
Professor Tahir Mahmood, former chairman of Minorities commission
of India spoke on Religion and law in the modern world-21 st century
scenario, march 21 2005.Justice Rajinder Sachar retired judge presided
over.
West Bengal
RH committee 2005
biennial general meeting of IRHA WB was held on 26
and 27 March 2005 and a new executive committee had been formed. In this
committee, Mr. Ajit Bhattachayya is the President, Mr. Salil Dasgupta and
Mr. Sushil Kar are Joint Secretaries and Mr. Krishna Chandra Som is the
Treasurer. There are other EC members /
IRHA is
registered and audited accounts. The No. is Registered under Societies
Registration Act - 1860. Mumbai Reg. No.9199, G.B.B.S.D.
|
Farah
commenced its activities in 2005 with international convention on what is
Secularism and contemporary situation.
On 14 Jan Justice Raghavendra A
Jahagirdar, the president of Indian Radical Humanist Association, did the
inauguration. He gave prepared and extempore speech on Indian attitude
towards secularism.
Mr. Justice Jayachandra Reddi the chairman of Press
council India attended as chief guest and gave speech supporting the cause
of secularism.
Ms Santa Sinha, Magassasay awardee explained the need to
educate children in secular way and necessity to bring all children to
schools.
Lars Gule narrated the situation of secularism in Norway and
Europe.
Mr. Vikram exposed the miracles of god men by distributing the
holy ash and bringing Siva Lingam.
Jaya and Malini of Jana Vignana
Vedika , The humanist cultural group, Saraiah scientific forum students,
Manava Vikasa troupe sang secular songs.
Mr. Prakash Narain humanist
from Delhi presented paper on Secularism and Hindutva. Mr. V K Sinha
presided over.
In evening session Mr. Vijayam, atheist center, Mr.
Ramana murthy, editor vijaya viharam, B.Kirkhart, atheist leader from USA
spoke.
Sangeeta Mall managing editor of Radical Humanist presided
over.
Mr. Vikram exhibited the spoon bending frauds.
Cultural groups
sang songs.
Mr. N.Innaiah, Mr. G RR Babu conducted the convention as
directors.
The convention was well attended. Mr. Subbarao, M brought
out some booklets, which were released by Mr. V K Sinha. Book exhibition
was arranged.
Delegates from Andhra, Kerala, West Bengal, Gujarat,
Delhi, Bombay attended.
15 Jan 2005
On the second day the convention
commenced with the songs of Saraiah group and Mr. K.Kesavarao, the
president of Andhra Pradesh Congress committee spoke the need for
asserting secularization in India.
Mr. Roy Brown, the IHEU president
stressed the need for separation of church and state.
Ms Chandralatha,
novelist spoke on rural life in Andhra where Jim Herrick, the humanist
from UK dealt with secularizing the art.
Ms Subbamma, the humanist
narrated her achievements through secular movements.
N.Innaiah co
coordinated the meeting. B.Sambasivarao the secretary of Manava Vikasa
Vedika spoke.
GRR Babu warned the dangers of ruling party’s attitude
towards communal problems.
Prof Desai from Gujarat explained the
carnage in the state while Mr. Kuruvella Daniel revealed the secrets of
Makara jyothi in Sabara malai.
Question answer session followed.
The
media covered the convention. Andhra Jyothi published interviews of
prominent humanists on 16 (City Life).TV9, ETV2, Maatv, Teja, Citicable
covered the proceedings. Kuruvella Daniel interview on Sabarimalai fraud
was telecasted in TV9.
The convention opined that religion should be
separated from state and the people in power must keep their personal
religious faith as private matter without bringing into office. Government
should confine to administering the money matters but should not observe
religious performances at the time of inauguration, opening ceremonies,
oath taking, and so on so forth.
Press meet on faith healing
FARA, IRHA and JVV held a
press meet on 21 Jan 2005 in JVV office. The CD of James Randy’s exposure
of Poppof was screened. A press note was circulated challenging the faith
healers to take up the case of Mr. Jaipal reddi, the minister for
information who is suffering with polio and if the faith healers can cure
him then all the rationalists will believe faith healing and join them.
The note explained how the emotionally surcharged atmosphere of
congregations created INFERON, which might temporarily relieve pain but
will come back with double intensity. The Christian faith healers are
luring the poor people and cheating them with miracle cures through
prayers.
Memorandum to The Governor of Andhra Pradesh, Minister for
Endowments, Minister for Home, Government of Andhra Pradesh,
India
Indian
Radical Humanist Association, Federation of Atheist Rationalist Humanist
associations (FARA), Jana Vignana Vedika submits this memorandum for
immediate action.
The state of
Andhra Pradesh is infected with god men, holy women, Christian faith
healers; black magicians who thrive on the ignorance, innocence and faith
of people. We come across several instances of cheating, looting money
properties of people. They get exemptions from income tax, wealth tax, and
property tax in the name of religion. They also escape responsibility,
answerability to their ill-gotten wealth both from abroad and within the
country. Often some of them indulge in crimes and escape under the garb of
spiritualism. The sufferers are devotees.
Hence we request the
government to stop these nefarious activities in so-called
religious-spiritual dens. We request for the following action.
1. A survey
of all the ashrams, mutts, peetams, and church centered faith healing
places, wakf board frauds with full details .The details should include
the past life of the so called holy persons, their crime record,
properties acquired.
2. What are the present activities of these holy
persons, which include collection of amounts from devotees abroad. If so
is there any accountability for that. Is there permission to receive
foreign money?
3. If the religious places involve in business activity
including manufacturing, sale, advertising, does it cover income tax,
wealth tax, property tax, and sales tax? If not will the government
immediately bring them under taxation.
4. Is the religious place open
for public always or do they maintain secrecy of admission, privacy for
certain persons? If so, what is the need for secrecy for spiritual
religious bodies which thrive on public money?
… Page
2…
5. Are the
ministers, officials, judges, visit these holy places at the cost of
government money or keep the visit as purely private affair. If government
money is involved, is it not violation of constitutional principles?
6.
When the holy persons claim to cure diseases with their drugs, prayers,
supernatural powers, does it not attract the act of drugs and magical
remedies? Will the government, especially the medical department take note
of this and take action?
7. The police department should take action
sue motto against these holy persons when they indulge in faith healing,
spreading superstitions, claiming cure for diseases with spiritual
supernatural powers so that innocent people are saved.
8. Will the
government consider avoiding public holidays for religious festivals so
that those who observe the religious day may avail the optional holiday
and others may work normally? Thus imposing religious faith on all people
may be avoided.
9. An act may be planned like prohibition of
superstitions (as contemplated in Maharastra)
10. Will the government
avoid inviting the holy religious persons to inaugurations, openings, and
oath taking ceremonies of official functions and keep them open to
all.
Here is the
partial list of persons, mutts, holy places, Christian faith healers, and
ashrams to be taken up by the government:
Satya Sai
Baba of Puttaparthi, Anantapur
China Jiyyar Swami,
Kalki Baba of
Chittoor district
Ganapathi Satchitananda Swamy (Datta
Peetadhipathi)
Vijayasri Devi of Nellore
Sundara
Chaitanya of Rajamundry
Viswanathaji
Kaleswara baba
Bala Sai Baba
of Kurnool
All Christian faith healers in the state
Rev Paravastu of
Rajamundry
John David of Gutti
Wakf Board
Bandlamma of
Kavali
Ramdhoot of Ongole
Shirdi Sai temple trustees
…Page
3…
Ayyappa
temples in the state
Mehar baba temples in the state
Shirdi Sai
temple trustees in the state
Chinmayananda ashrams in the
state
Maharshi Mahesh yogi properties in the state
Brahma kumaris in
the state
Ravi Shankar properties in the state
Matha Amrithananda
mayi properties in the state
Raghavendra swami temple affairs (like
practicing untouchbility) in Kurnool
Naked holy woman Mangamma in
Anantapur
Andal matha properties in Hyderabad
Jillella mudi amma
properties
Tajuddin baba
Aslam baba
Desi guruvulu who travel in
telengana from rayalaseema
Black magicians in the old city of
Hyderabad
Kurtal ashram
Siva bala yogi of cuddapah
Christian
missionary activities in the state
Note of
Explanation:
Satya Sai
Baba affairs: The State of Andhra Pradesh got bad name in the eyes of
world due to lack of action against Puttaparthi Prasanti Nilayam of Sai
Baba despite serious allegations of sexual abuse, murders, money affairs,
false claims of paranormal powers.6 murders took place in Puttaparthi
Prasanthi Nilayam,but no action was taken by the state
government.
UNESCO advised the world not to send delegates to the
educational conference held under the auspices of Puttaparthi
ashram.
In view of these things the state government should take
action.
Shirdi Sai
trustees:
Andhra Pradesh pilgrims are attracted to Shirdi in large
number. Temples emerged in the name of Shirdi Sai. They are not covered by
Endowments department. Devotees are cheated by Shirdi Sai Trustees in many
ways. There is no photo of Sai baba. They show the photo of Abdul baba, a
servant of Sai Baba and propagate as though it belongs to Sai baba. The
trustees did not publish the Sufi sayings of Sai baba lest the devotees
should think that he is not Hindu and thought that they may lose income.
Some trustees in Maharastra were arrested for indulging in corruption. The
temple trustee activities in Andhra Pradesh should be checked.
…Page
4…..
Bala Sai
baba
The media for his corrupt activities exposed the newly emerged
Bala Sai Baba in Kurnool. Proper inquiry should be conducted at once. He
created one university in Chattisgarh and named himself as
prochancellor.
Brahmakumris
30 acres land was donated near sports
village in Hyderabad to Brahma kumaris by Telugu Desam government. They
had access in government offices with full liberty to propagate their
cult. They lure even the journalists to Mount Abu to get wide publicity.
Matha Amrithananada Mayi
This hugging holy matha started acquiring
properties in the state. Already one estate was established in Mahendra
hills, secunderabad. Her false claims were already exposed by Srini
Pattathanam, in Kerala.The mysterious deaths in Kollam ashram were not
inquired into.All the paranormal claims of Matha were disputed.
China
Jiyyar Swami
Often he indulges in government affairs. He has already
accumulated enormous properties. He performed one Yagnam for late N T
Ramarao-Lakshmi Parvathi claiming that the result of yagnam will get them
son! He also involved in controversial matters in Tirumala especially with
Kanchi Jayendra.
Kalki baba
He accumulated huge properties. He
maintain website too. Rationalists exposed his activities but the
government did not take any action.
Ram dhoot
He encroached the
forest lands near ongole-kavali high way. Rationalists complained about
it. The previous Telugu Desam government received complaint when Ayyanna
Patrudu was forest minister who visited the ashram site. But no action was
taken.
Old city is full of black magicians. Poor people are suffering
under the influence of these cheaters.
Ayyappa swami devotees are
cheated
In Kerala on the day of Makara Sankrati the Makara jyoti is lit
with the help of electricity department, forest department and endowments
department of Kerala. No body is allowed to the hilltop so that the secret
is kept out of reach. Rationalists who exposed the truth of litting
camphor and make belief story is concocted as though divine light is
coming on that day, were not allowed to go to the other hill of Sabari
Malai.
Several devotees are not told the truth in Andhra but they still
believe the false story of divine light.
… Page
5…
Christian
faith healers
Several faith healers in the state often open
congregations and attract thousands of poor people with false claim of
curing diseases. Doctors before the cure or after the cure never test
those patients. The cheating is going on.
The Christian missionaries
are getting enormous amounts from abroad. Some of them show hostels,
schools, hospitals and charity institutions as cover to their nefarious
activities. Tandur child murders were notorious incidents where Christians
are involved. These Christian missionaries attract persons in power and
get properties. They must be checked.
We are mentioning few examples
only but all holy loafers are to be observed and checked on time to save
people from their clutches.
There were numerous complaints regarding
the corrupt practices in Muslim wakf board properties and these affairs
must be enquired into
N.INNAIAH
T.V.RAO
Co- Coordinator Secretary
FARA Jana Vignana
Vedika
N.VIKRAM
B.SAMBA SIVARAO
M.SUBBA RAO
M.CHANDRA
SEKHAR
Memorandum to Minister for Home Mr. K Janareddi
Government of
Andhra Pradesh, India on 2 Feb 2005
Federation of
Atheist Rationalist Humanist
Associations (FARA),
Sai Baba:
The
reports of Mr. A P Rajan and Lokendar Sarma, police
officers who
investigated and submitted report on
murders in Satya sai Ashram were
to be revealed and
action should be followed up.
Deaths occurred in
Anantapur when the dome of Sai Baba
Museum collapsed and architect as
well as few workers
died, must be probed into and action must
follow.
Deaths that took place when the wall of water
canal
Collapsed in Puttaparti ashram and few workers died
must be
enquired into and action to be taken.
The police records about the
deaths, molestations,
Sexual abuse in Puttaparthi ashram must be
studied and
Action to be taken.
The Larsen and Toubro company that
gave 400 crores of
Rupees for water scheme ought to have paid income
tax
Worth rs 120 crores. But they avoided .It must be
Probed. There
should be an answer as to why the water
Works scheme in Puttaparthi
ashram was handed over to
Panchayat raj?
The complaint against
Puttaparthi ashram and Sai baba
By UNESCO and the petition circulated
worldwide must
Be taken seriously by the government and action
should
Be taken. The state of Andhra Pradesh was put to shame
With
the actions of Sai baba and the ashramites.
A copy of Mr. Robert
Priddy`s latest book "End of The
Dream-The fall of Sathya Sai Baba" was
presented to
The minister along with the copy of public petition
For
official investigation of satya sai Bab and his
Worldwide
organization.
The Minister promised to place the facts before
the
Cabinet and the chief minister. He also assured that
The home
department will take suitable action.
Kalki Baba affairs:
Land was
allotted to him unto 120 acres near Sriharikota space center, Nellore
district where a road is being constructed. Also a building is being
constructed near Thada, Nellore-Chittoor boarder that is kept secret for
outsiders. Kalki Baba is originally vijaya kumar a clerk in insurance
company. Married. His wife also pretends to be holy woman and charges for
visit.
Jagdish, a young fellow became follower of Kalki and pretends to
be the junior baba .
Kalki has land in Chittoor district. Police cases
are booked against him in Tamilnadu.
N.Innaiah
=====
Issued a statement through Andhra Jyothi daily on 22
feb 2005, warning people against Christian faith healers especially
scientologists who came from USA claiming to console and cure the sick
persons who suffered in Tsunami disaster. A batch of 28 persons came from
USA, distributed literature in coastal areas of Tsunami affected areas.
The use touches therapy for the sick people and pray for the cure. Though
they say that their aim is not to convert people into Christianity, their
motive is to convert through dubious attractions.
Exposed the
false degrees confirmed by Mr. Roy B Oliver of Las Altos in California
State USA who gave doctorates to several persons in the name of
International university of California. Innaiah called on him in USA and
found that the university is non-existent. Mr. Roy Oliver is living in two
bed room house and through his agents in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka collect
money from persons and send them attractive certificates. His agent in
Chennai, India is Mr. Thyagarajan who collects Rs 15000 to one Lakh rupees
for certificates.D.Anjaneyulu, alapati Ravindranath got doctorates in
similar fashion.(Andhra Jyothi daily published the news provided by
N.Innaiah on 22 feb 2005)
Called on
Governor Mr. Sushil Kumar Shinde
On behalf of FARA, IRHA we met the
governor Mr. Sushil Kumar Shinde and submitted a memorandum regarding Sai
Baba of Puttaparthi, Kalki baba and other holy persons. A copy of
Premanand`s book Murders in Sai Baba Bed Room, BBC telecast Secret swamy
in June 2004 and seduced by sai baba were given to the governor. He wanted
to see the details and study the problem. We pleaded with the governor
that personal faith should not be brought into government. We also
requested him that the state should not give official reception to Matha
Amrithananda Mayi when she visits Hyderabad. The governor said that he
follows M N.Roy`s thought.
N.Innaiah, CLN Gandhi and V.Venkataratnam
were in the delegation.
|
Federation of Atheist, Rationalist and Humanist associations in
Andhra Pradesh, India formed during 2002 with Dr Innaiah Narisetti as co
coordinator. The associations joined in the federation are: Andhra Pradesh
Radical Humanist Association, Rationalist Association of India-Andhra
Pradesh; Atheist Association,Vijayawada; Indian Atheist Association,
Anantapur Rationalist Association, Humanist center, Inkole; Manava Vikas
Samajam;
Several activities were taken up to educate the public and
media.
2004 FARAH activities
Farah the
federation of atheist rationalist Humanist association started its
activities in 2004 with a media meet on 7 January in Working Journalists
Union meeting hall in Basheer Bagh, Hyderabad. Mr. Larry Jones, vice
chairman of International Humanist and Ethical Union, New York and
Gogineni Ramanath Babu executive director of IHEU, N.Innaiah co
coordinator Farah addressed the press meet. Three books were released on
this occasion.
Living without religion by Paul Kurtz, translated into
Telugu by N.Innaiah
This book was dedicated to Mr. Kotapati Murahari
rao and Mr. Narra Kotaiah
They were also present to receive the
book.
The second book is Memoirs of Cat by M.N.Roy, translated into
Telugu by venigalla komala.
The third book is by M.Subbarao on curbing
the menace of fundamentalism. Mr. Larry Jones released this where as the
other Mr. G.R.R.babu released two.
Mr.
M.Subbarao explained the activities of Hyderabad rationalist forum and
Rationalist voice magazine.
Mr. N.Innaiah explained the thrust of Farah
on separation of religion and politics.
Mr. G.R R Babu criticized the
state and central governments for indulging in the promotion of cults like
Brahma kumaris and babas like Satya Sai. He wanted the implementation
human rights, which will cut across all religions. He also cited the
example of Pakistan, which has gone into barbaric state through Sharia and
denied the rights of expression. He gave the example of dr Younus Sherif
who was punished for criticizing Islamic law.
Mr. Larry Jones said that
USA is going fundamentalist way under Bush regime and felt that
superstition is on the rise.
Mr. I.Muralidhar proposed vote of
thanks.
Interview by Andhra Jyothi
Mr. Larry Jones and Mr. G R R
Babu were interviewed by Andhra Jyothi and published in daily on 8 Jan
2004.They had a meeting with Mr. K.Ramachandra Murthy editor of Andhra
Jyothi and exchanged views on various aspects.
Mr. N.Vikram, Ravela
Somaiah, M.Chandrasekhar attended the Farah press meet.
Fara second
state conference
The second
conference of Farah was held at Tenali on 12, 13 January 2004.
M.Basavapunnarao organized and welcomed the delegates in N.G.O Hall on 12
January.
Earlier N.Innaiah addressed the press and explained the
objectives of the conference.
N.Innaiah presided over the
convention.
Larry Jones inaugurated the conference and shared his
experiences of Humanist studies in United States.
Dr Vijayam
translated the speech of Larry Jones into Telugu.
Vincent Lloyd editor
of Common sense magazine from USA spoke briefly the participation of youth
in humanist movement in States.
Babu Gogineni explained the activities
of International humanist organization.
Premanand stressed the need for
united effort and narrated the unity effort of rationalist
organizations.
N.Vikram, Kondalarao performed the psychic surgery and
explained the bogus claims of quacks like Orbito Elex from
Phillipphines.
They also demonstrated a street performance in Tenali
street corner which attracted youth.
Kiran Nanavati, secretary of
Humanist organization from Ahmedabad appealed for the promotion of secular
parties against Hindutva promoters.
He narrated the communal atmosphere
of Gujarat.
Mr. I.Muralidhara gave suggestions for functioning of
Farah.
Andres Marshall, Time Asia correspondent from Bangkok and Time
Photographer Frederic came to report the activities of Rationalist
organizations. They interviewed Chandra Latha, the author of Drisya
Drisyalu, a Telugu novel on ecological problems.
On the night of 12
January Farah representatives had discussions on future of organization
and various suggestions emerged. IHEU leaders and Time magazine
correspondent also participated in it. I.Muralidhar, N.Vikram,
C.Bhaskararao, Thotakura Venkateswarlu(editor of Charvaka monthly)
N.Innaiah, G.R.R.babu, Larry Jones, Vincent Lloyd, participated. Marshall
Andrews observed the discussions with keen interest.
On 13 January the
Farah convention discussed the problem of Child abuse by
religions.
N.Innaiah initiated discussion by giving details of UNESCO
role, various religious abuses of children and the need for scientific
education for children from primary level.
Mr. Narne Venkatasubbaiah
presided over the second day deliberations.
MrBasavapunnarao explained
the role of local bodies.
Mr. Krantikar fr om Khammam spoke. Mr. Ancha
Seetharamaiah spoke.
Saraiah group sang several rationalistic songs in
the conference.
Book exhibition also attracted several delegates.Mr
Premanand spoke on the second day.
Submitted
charter of demands to political parties
The Farah
charter of demands passed in Tenali conference were submitted to political
parties at Hyderabad on 24 Jan. N.Innaiah, I.Muralidhar, N.Vikram,
M.Chandrasekhararao, Mr. T.V.Rao(janavignana vedika) went round to
Telangana rakshaka samithi( Prof Srinivas redid), Telugu Desam( Umareddi
Venkateswarlu), Congress (K.Rosaiah), CPM (Raghavulu) CPI ( Suravaram
Sudhakar reddi) BJP( Kishan Reddi).All of them received well and expressed
their views on various points. They also accepted to distribute the
charter among their party members for discussion.
Press
Meet
Mr. N.Innaiah, co ordinator and Mr. G R R Babu, Executive director
of IHEU addressed the media on 27 January 2004 in Press club, Hyderabad.
Innaiah briefed the press regarding the charter of demands of FARA, which
was submitted, to political party leader for implementation.
He
explained the implication of the charter of demands.
Mr. Babu
extensively briefed the media about the freedom of dr Shaik Younus who was
in Europe after release from Pakistan jail. He narrated the efforts of
IHEU in releasing the providing asylum for Dr Shaik. He also gave details
of various efforts of IHEU in saving the freedom of writers and
fighters.
Mr. I.Muralidhar, Mr Hanumantharao, Mr Vikram, Mr.
M.Chandrasekhararao, Mr. Veeranana attended the press meet.
Fara protest
to Amrithanandamayi devotees
On 8 feb Fara
held a media meet in Press club, Hyderabad and protested to the government
of Kerala and the devotees of Matha Amrithanandamayi for trying to
prosecute Mr. Sreeni Pattathanam. The book written by Pattathanam is the
basis for prosecution. State government permitted mr A.T.Ajan an advocate
of Kollam to proceed against Pattathanam. FARA exhibited the hugging
mother photos and demanded probe into her funds received from abroad. They
also asked to remove all exemptions on Ashram funds since they are running
it as business concern. The hugging humbug was also criticized by
FARA.
Mr. In.Innaiah, Mr. I Muralidhar, Mr. M Subbarao, Mr
Hanumantharao, Mr M Chandrasekhar participated in it. Eenadu, Vaartha
published the news. There was TV coverage. The book written by Mr.
Pattathanam in Malayalam was exhibited to the media along with the gist in
English, published in Rationalist voice.
Protest to PM
and CM
On behalf of
FARA protest emails were sent to Prime Minister Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee,
Chief Minister Nara Chandra Babu Naidu for visiting officially to the
Puttaparthi Sai Baba on 11 Feb 2004. They violated the secular norms by
encouraging such cult babas.
Sai Baba sex
exposed
FARA held a
press meet on 7 march 2004 in Press club, Basheer Bagh, Hyderabad and
screened the CD of Denmark devotees of Sai Baba. It shows the sexual
perversion of Sai Baba. UNESCO withdrew from the educational conference
organized by Prasanti Nilayam in 2001 and advised visitors not to go since
sexual abuse complaints are rampant. Conney, a Swedish actor narrated his
own experiences with Sai baba and established a society in Sweden to help
the victims of Sai Baba Ashram.
Some other revelations also were shown
like false claims of divinity, miracle cures, taking things out of
nowhere.
N.Innaiah addressed the press and demanded inquiry into funds
of Ashram, constitute committee to probe into sex complaints and account
for enormous amounts received from abroad.
Mr Muralaidhar, Mr. Subbarao
M and Mr Chandra sekhar attended. Mr. Vikram through his magic shown how
ATMA Lingam is taken out from mouth which Sai Baba fakes and cheats his
disciples.Mr M.Subbarao exhibited the book of Premanand “Murders in Sai
Bab`s Bedroom” to the media.
Press meet on
Shirdi Sai and trust affairs
A press meet
was held on 28 march 2004 in Regional Trasport commissioner office,
Hyderabad. Mr CLN Gandhi arranged the screening of Shirdi Sai photos for
press.
Mr. N.Innaiah addressed the media saying that the photos
exhibited for devotees are not original Sai Baba. The photos of Shirdi Sai
do not exist at all. All the photos are of Abdul Baba who served Shirdi
Sai. The Shirdi Sai trust was created after 5 years of the death of Sai in
1917. Mr. Rahim Baba who is 70 now served his grand father Abdul Baba and
revealed the truth about the photos to Mr. Prabhakar Nanawaty, Pune when
he interviewed in Shirdi.
Mr Abdul Baba also noted the sayings of
Shirdi Sai in urdu. The manuscript consist of 110 pages. Three photocopies
were exhibited to the media. They were not published by the Shirdi Sai
trust because they belong to Sufi sayings and Koran. Shirdi Trust wanted
to do business on Sai by propagating Hindu customs and attract more
devotees to get money. The trust involved in corrupt practices and some of
the trustees were jailed also. One Mr. K.R.Sampath IAS was appointed as
approver. The Maharastra government wanted to issue ordinanance and take
over the trust under the chief ministership of Vilasarao Deshmukh.But some
officials who happened to be the devotees stopped the attempt.
Mr.
Yoginder Sikander of Islamic Institute of Leiden, Netherlands also wrote
article in Feb and March issues of Radical Humanist in 2004. Mr.
P.K.Nanawaty`s article was published in Rationalist Voice in 2003.
The
Temples constructed in Andhra Pradesh are not controlled by Endowments
department since the Supreme Court accepted the plea that shirdi sai is
not Hindu. The individuals in Andhra Pradesh are constructing the temples
of sai and making money.
Malladi Subbamma lamented the exploitation of
women in the name of Shirdi sai pilgrimage. Mr. B.Sambasavarao, president
Bharat Nastik Samaj said that there is not word Sai but originally it is
Shahi, who fled from the sepoy mutiny fight during 1857. Later he was
shown as Shirdi Sai.
Mr. I.Muralidhar said that the research articles
of Sikander, and Nanawaty revealed the truth about Shirdi sai. He also
narrated how some individuals indulge in earning through Shirdi sai
temples in Nellore.
Mr. Vikram demonstrated through magic how the
miracles of Shirdi sai took place, such as lighting the lamp with Water
and creating holy ash.
TV9 channel telecasted the news
prominently.
Mr. Chandrasekhar, Ms Nandita were present.
Defections
among politicians:
Fara
organized a media meet to expose the defectors in politics in Andhra
Pradesh. The photos of prominent defectors were exhibited to the media.
The meeting was held in Jana Vignana center Khairatabad, Hyderabad on 11
April. N.Innaiah explained the weakness of politicians who aim at
capturing power and defect parties to achieve that goal.He narrated the
long tradition of defections starting with late Tanguturi Prakasam, Prof
N.G.Ranga, dr M.Channareddi and 100 others.
The conference urged
voters to be cautious with such defectors.
FARA also suggested the
political parties should observe internal democracy, decentralization in
selecting candidates. The candidates should be elected by the each
political party in the constituency but not in Hyderabad, or Delhi.
Fara suggested that recall system should be introduced to show the
power of voter.
Child abuse
in elections:
FARA issued a press statement asking all political
parties to stop involving children for canvassing, carrying buntings,
flags, raising slogans and using them in advertisements. Election
commission was urged to take note of the child abuse during elections.
Mercury
menace in Ashram
Datta Ashram of Anksapur, Vempalli mandal, Nizamabad
district in Andhra Pradesh installed 411 kilos mercury Phallic Lingam. The
material was brought from Benaras. It is said that some herbs and
chemicals were mixed in it. The radius of mercury solidified material is
3feet and height one and half feet.
Fara and Jana vignana vedika held
a press meet on 28 april where Innaiah warned the health dangers of
mercury. He demanded that the concerned holy persons should obtain
permission from pollution control board and it is against the hazardous
material act to use mercury in temple.
Mr. Baburao scientist explained
the consequences of mercury leakage into water, soil and inhaling
vapor.
Eenadu, Andhra Jyothi dailies published the item, and TV9
telecasted with visuals.
Challenge to
Astrologers
Fara issued a statement through Eenadu on may 8 challenging
the astrologers to predict the party wise winners of assembly and Lok
sabha elections, which will be counted on 11, may. Malladi Subbamma,
Kotapati Muraharirao and N.Innaiah addresses were given with phone
numbers. Several phones came throughout the state from astrologers asking
to note down their predictions. But we insisted on written statements and
gave time until 10 may.
Vaastu
criticized
A press meet
was held on 9 may in Press club, Basheerbagh Hyderabad where N.Innaiah, Dr
K Krishnaiah and Mr. A V Reddi engineer addressed on Vaastu and its
criminality in connecting diseases to wrong constructions.
New Chief
Minister Y S Rajasekharareddi- Letter to ask for observing secularism
A
congratulatory letter was addressed to the Chief Minister Dr Y S
Rajasekhar reddy asking him to observe secularism and avoid mixing
personal beliefs with administration. Also asked to separate religion from
politics and confine personal beliefs to home and not to bring them to
government offices.
Challenge to
Astrology predictions
A press meet
was arranged to exposed the failure of astrologers in Andhra Pradesh in
predicting the accurate figure of winning figure of political parties in
state and center. The letters written by various astrologers were
exhibited to the media. Also one lakh rupees cheque donated by Mr. Gadded
Ramakrishna was shown to the media in press club, Basher Bagh, Hyderabad
on 15 th May .
TV9, ETV2 telecasted the program. The media Hindu,
Eenadu, Andhra Jyothi, Vaartha published the news on 16 May.
Malladi
Subbmma, M Subbarao, I Muralidhar, Vikram, Veeranna G, participated. Later
Mr. Narne Venkatasubbaiah, M.Satyanarayana also attended.
Mr.M.Nageswararao of Eenadu journalism school especially present in the
press meet.
Another press meet was held on 21 may in Press club.
Addressed again on fish medicine along with Jana vignana vedika persons.
Issued a statement on fraudulent nature of fish medicine cure of asthma.
Astrology experiment
Astrological predictions were conducted in
three schools. In Malladi Subbamma junior college girl students and
Prakasam school in Khairatabad students were given horoscope predictions
after obtaining their date of birth, place of birth, birth sign etc.
Similarly 17 lady teachers were selected in Jubilee hills public school
(20th dec 2004) and their horoscope were distributed to each individual.
In all the three schools the participants were given astrological
predictions in envelops and asked to read silently and after going through
the text, asked them to keep the paper in the envelop. Then opinions were
obtained about the accuracy of the predictions. Majority of the
participants said that the text was accurate; some said that it was 90%
accurate. But none said that the predictions were wrong.
Then the
participants were asked to give the envelop to the person sitting behind
him/her and the last row participants were asked to give their envelops to
the front row persons. Then they were asked to go through the text. Every
body was taken aback and surprised that the text is the same for everyone.
What is the accuracy is the question! At that juncture Indian astrology
was explained through question answer session, the non existent planets,
the difference between sun and planet, the inaccuracy of calculation at
the time of birth; no influence of planet on persons; ignorance about the
stars;
Most of the participants accepted the falsehood of astrology
and its predictions.
In each case, N.Innaiah explained in detail about
the scientific attitude to understand the difference between astrology and
astronomy.
Then followed the magic show of Mr. Vikram where he
exhibited the distribution of holy ash, bringing out Siva Lingam from
stomach, which was followed by explanation. The teachers participated in
the discussions.
\VAASTU
Vaastu was repeatedly challenged by FARA
and Jana Vignana Vedika in meetings and discussions.
Mr. Gouri
Thirupathi Reddi books were condemned as committing social crime and
harassing persons with his false claims. Similar discussions were held in
TV9 and ETV2 channels too. Mr Pandarinath, Mr. Gouri Thirupathi redid
failed to argue scientifically. Mr. N.Innaiah, Mr. TV Rao Mr.
I.Muralidhar, Mr. B.Sambasivarao participated on behalf of JVV and
FARA.
|
India is following its own peculiar secularism. Often the political
parties, especially the religious oriented dub Secularism as
“Western”.
It all started with the perverted interpretation of
Secularism by Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan ( the president of India and
interpreter of Hinduism)
Dr Radhakrishnan defined secularism as equal
respect to all religions and never should be considered as irreligious.
Political parties in power follow this definition and take advantage of
the situation to their advantage.
Mahatma Gandhi realized in the last
days of his life the need for separation of religion from politics,
especially the state. Gandhiji always practiced religion in politics
through prayers. He followed the principle of equal respect to all
religions. At the fag end of his life Gandhi wanted non-interference of
State in the religious matters. He also emphasized the separation of
religion so that it can be practiced only at personal level. But that was
too late. He did not live longer to propagate the separation of religion
from politics.
Jawaharlal Nehru as first prime minister of India always
stood for secularism. But he could not take it to the logical end due to
pressures from political and religious lobbies. He even failed to bring
uniform civil code in the country.
Indian
Constitution:
The founding fathers of Indian Constitution makers
clearly stated, “ that nothing in this article shall affect the operation
of any existing law or prevent the state from making any law regulating or
restricting any economic, financial, political or other secular activity
which may be associated with religious practice.”(Article 25 (2) (a)
constitution.
Through 42nd amendment to the Constitution in 1976, the
preamble clearly stated:” We the people of India having solemnly resolved
to constitute India into a Sovereign Secular Democratic Republic”.
Yet
the political parties who oppose the secular principle and who support the
practice of Secularism dare not interpret in proper perspective.
Congress Party:
Usually the Congress party is considered to be
secular-by and large. Barring Jawaharlal Nehru, all the congress prime
ministers, ministers, and others at various levels followed religious
practices “officially”. The invite Hindu priests on the occasion of oath
taking ceremonies, inaugurations, opening of new projects, laying
foundations, etc. To avoid criticism they involve Christian priests and
Muslim Mullahs too. They visit temples and receive honors “officially”.
They exhibit their faith publicly at the cost of government funds, which
means peoples money. The government officially declares holidays to all
religious festivals. Temples, Masjid and churches are allowed in the
premises of government offices. During office hours the prayers are
allowed. Persons bring their own individual Guru’s pictures, images into
the offices. Government officially patronage the pilgrimages, provide all
facilities and extend financial concessions. Government lands are allotted
to religious purposes.
Each religion took advantage of the weakness of
political parties and gained much to benefit in several ways. Religious
establishments became powerful institutions with huge amounts accumulated.
All religions get exemptions from taxes. There is no accountability either
for the illegal money or business affairs conducted in the name spiritual
activity.
Cult Babas, holy women gather around politicians and built
empires of ashrams. Even criminal activity of holy persons goes undetected
except in rare cases.
Dhirendra Brahmachari a cult holy persons was
very powerful during Mrs. Indira Gandhi`s tenure of Prime Minister ship.
Chanda Swami, a cult person emerged as spiritual ambassador during the
time of Mr. P .V.Narasimharao`s premiership. In each state several holy
cult persons amassed wealth and established powerful empires. They
developed connections with politicians who always come to their support in
need.
Presidents of India prostrated before the holy persons and
visited several of them “officially”. Similarly prime ministers,
ministers, judges, officials made their religious visits official. All
these practices made secularism more difficult in public life.
The
confusion about secularism percolated to all levels. The compulsion of
elections, made the political parties impotent before cults, religious
holy persons.
Communist parties
too!
The left parties are supposed to be secular and non-religious, if
not irreligious. But this is not so. Communists gained power in states
several times. They did not practice secularism. Take the example of
Kerala. Communists ruled the south Indian state quite for some time. There
is Ayyappa cult in Kerala. People annually visit the Ayyappa temple
located on the top of a hill Sabarmalai. Neighboring state devoted visit
in thousands. On the last day of the visit during January month, the
government officially involves electricity department, forest department,
and temple administration in the function. On the other hill near
Sabarimalai, the government arranges to light camphor so that devotees see
the light. It is described as Divine Light. Of course it is make belief.
This practice is going every year. Communists also practice this anti
secular make belief.
When there were protests, the chief minister of
communist party defended the practice saying that the state gains much
through revenue from pilgrims and hence there should be no protest.
Communist party (Marxist) is in power in West Bengal state. Every year
Durga cult religious sacrifices were performed for 9 days with all pomp.
The State government makes all arrangements and encourages the religious
practice. The communist government described this practice as “cultural”
and continues to gain popularity among people. This is another
compromising attitude to perpetuate political power. Communists never
tried to educate people about wrong notions of Durga cult, lest they
should lose cheap popularity.
Mr. Surjit Singh, communist party leader
from Punjab state wear Sikh turban, grows beard and moustache. He looks
like typical Sikh religious person. Sikh religion insists that hair should
not be cut; turban is must and so on and so forth. The communist leader
never resisted this Sikh religious practice nor tried to educate the Sikhs
that dress is personal. On the other hand they defend these cult practices
in dress, food as “cultural” and follow them!
Scientist President
Kalam`s Secularism
Mr. Kalam is the scientist from South India. When he
was elected as president of India, secularists felt happy and expected
genuine secular practice from the highest dignitary. But Mr. Kalam started
visiting cult holy persons like Satya Sai Baba, Matha Amrithananda Mayi
and Brahma Kumaris. This practice of encouraging holy persons started with
the first President of India Mr. Rajendra Prasad. The first president not
only visited the religious persons but also even went to the extent of
washing their feet in public. The Presidents Sankar Dayal Sarma,
Venkataraman officially exhibited their faith.
The Bharatiya Janata
Party was in power for some time in the center and in some states. They
stood for religion and hence there is no expectation from them to practice
secularism. The disappointment came from Congress party and left parties.
Muslims and Christians, Sikhs etc took advantage of misinterpretation
of secularism and gained much for their religious practices. Muslims
started ignoring the rulings of Supreme Court regarding noise pollution at
the time of prayers. Muslims use mikes and loud speakers causing nuisance
to residents, students during examination time. Christians and Hindus also
imitate them and started using mikes and loud speakers as though god is
deaf! Religious churches, masjids, Hindu mandirs are built obstructing the
roads and traffic. In the name of religion it is shown as though anything
and everything is possible.
Thousands of holy persons emerge to earn
illegal money, property since exemptions are there and accountability is
absent. Most religious places involve in business that has become very
lucrative and powerful centers. Tirumala-Tirupati has become largest
pilgrimage center with enormous amounts of income. The money source at
this temple is not questioned. Hence much illegal amount reaches the holy
place and government accepts this practice in the name of religion. All
such illegal and anti secular activity is rampant throughout the country,
shared by all the political parties.
Future of Secularism
in India
India has to begin
the practice of Secularism, somewhere. To start with there should be clear
understanding that Secularism means separation of State and religion in
all matters. Religion is faith based and hence confine to individual
belief related to god and supernatural spirituality. In the matters of
state the law should be equal to all irrespective of religion. There
should be no exemptions to the principle that all are equal before law.
Some people including religious persons should not be kept above law under
any circumstance.
In India some judges visit holy persons “publicly”.
This creates problems. It would be difficult for victims of holy persons
to fight against injustice when judges openly prostrate before the holy
persons. Justice cannot be expected from such persons.
Similarly law
officers, Police should not exhibit their personal faith openly. Holy
persons who indulge criminal activity take shelter with the support of
police devotees. These things are happening continuously in India.
Religious crimes also are crimes. There should be no exemptions to
spiritual and religious persons so far as crimes, mis appropriation of
funds, sexual abuses are concerned.
Religious practices of
untouchbility, castes, child marriages, burning of wife when husband dies,
oppression of minorities, discrimination against women, child labor should
not be tolerated and there should be no exemption to those who practice
them.
In the field of education, scientific method should be inculcated
from primary level. Religious instruction should not be included in texts,
curriculum since that belongs to faith and belief.
Holy loafers should
not get any exemption from law, answerability and
accountability.
Rights of minorities so far as religion is concerned
should be confined to personal level. This includes prayer, holidays,
dress, food habits and civil law. They must not be brought to the
streets.
In India Religion encroached into politics and public life.
Thus religious belief system vitiated the moral life of the people.
Religious morality should not be confused with values and ethics.
Religious values, morality are strictly confined to divine laws and
supernatural realm. There is no verification, nor proof for religious
belief systems and religious values including moral faith. They should not
be confused with human rights, human values and human morals.
Secular
values are moral, and human. Secular values are not in any way connected
with supernatural and para normal systems.
Human rights and religions
often don’t go together. When human rights and values emphasize that all
are equal, men and women have the same rights, religions don’t accept.
That is the crux of the point. In such cases religions wish to follow
their holy texts like Gita, Koran, Bible which preach inequality between
men and women. Secularism stands for sincere equality and genuine practice
human rights and values.
India needs secular practices in all walks of
life. That will put India in futuristic stance.
All state and Central
governments can observe secular holidays leaving the religious holidays to
those who observe them. That will make a good beginning for secular
practice in India
The fighters for Dalits, depressed groups, scheduled
castes think that temple entry on equal footing with Hindus will solve the
problem. Some reformers mistakenly think that if Dalits can be taught to
become temple priests and marriage performance priests, that will uplift
them. They are mistaken. In fact they are leading blindly into the Hindu
caste system, gradation method and accepting Karma theory! Exactly that is
the reason why B R Ambedkar wanted the Dalits to leave Hinduism so that
they can bid good-bye to untouchbility, caste degradation. Temples,
priesthood and religion will not uplift the Dalits and suppressed classes.
On the other hand those deceitful practices lure the weak minds to accept
suppression.
Secular practices with human dignity, human values and
human morality will alone bring them into great
future.
N.Innaiah
PH.D
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