Secular framework eroded Hindu institutions: Sai Deepak

Mangaluru: The secular framework not only eroded Hindu institutions, but also distanced the country from its cultural heritage, creating a cultural divide that persists to this day, said J Sai Deepak, senior advocate at the Supreme Court of India.
He delivered a talk on ‘Civilization, Constitution, and the Myth of Secularism' organised by the Citizens Council Mangaluru chapter in the city on Saturday. Deepak critiqued the version of secularism introduced in India, particularly its European roots. He elaborated on the idea of Hindu governance, wherein the king was seen as a protector of dharma, a principle that contrasts with the secular framework introduced in India's Constitution.
He also critiqued the secularism narrative, asserting that the imposition of secularism led to a disconnect between India's religious practices and its political structure. This, he argued, contributed to the weakening of India's traditional institutions and a loss of cultural identity, especially when the state began appropriating temple properties and religious resources.
The talk also delved into the impact of secularism on India's educational system. Another key area of focus was the narrowing of the discourse around free thought and expression in India. Deepak expressed concern over how the range of acceptable discourse has become constrained in the country. This, he argued, stifles the free exchange of ideas, which is essential to the health of any democracy. He also questioned whether India's democracy truly represents every ideology or if it merely reflects the will of the majority. Using corporate governance as an analogy, Deepak explained the need for a republic that protects minority viewpoints, ensuring a fair and balanced society.
Justice P Krishna Bhat, retired high court judge of Karnataka, and Vasudev Kamath, president of Citizens Council Mangaluru, were present.