What it means to be pseudo-secular?

(Before getting into the topic, the author expresses his helplessness over the present situation prevailing in his nation where the very utterance of 'religion', makes him a narrow minded fundamentalist. However, the author takes the freedom in the usage of the word and yet he claims that he doesn't belong to any of such group, on contrary to the notion of the general public and the political parties.

A self-proclaimed 'unbiased' (again, I am sure some of the readers might dispute) analysis about the strategy followed by some of the political 'leaders' (its unfortunate to call them so) and parties, who have faithfully taken it forward from their predecessors from Briton. As always, the author would be pleased to end the note with his usual statement: Healthy debates and discussions are always warmly welcome, either on emails/posts or over a coffee :D )

Being a pseudo-secular means a lot. Firstly, let us try to look at what it really means to be pseudo-secular and its implications. Then we shall the 'trade-offs' in being pseudo-secular, and ofcourse, I would end the article with how to be pseudo-secular. (Yes, you have seen it right!). This might become reference manual for all those who would like to get into a career of politics and who think they are 'beyond' any of the morality or ethical framework. So, I would be pleased if they would be obliged to pay me a royalty (atleast an acknowledgment would do!), given that they got benefited through my blog. ;)

To keep things simple, if we peep into an 'unconventional' source, Wikipedia calls Pseudo-secularism as the state of implicit non-secular trends in the face of pledged secularism. The term is used by groups who perceive a double standard exhibited within the established secular governing policy towards culturally different groups. Perhaps the very inclusion of the word 'Secular' in the Indian constitution seems a bit 'pseudo-secular'. It goes back to Mrs.Indira who took the initiative to include the word, 'secular' in Indian Constitution, through 42nd Amendment, 1976. We all would admit that, it was very admirable effort. However, our Congress Government has taken the best efforts to 'forget' defining what it means. Although, the Janata Government tried its hand in the process, the National Party which was in the brief opposition at that time, safely turned their efforts down. Now that we don't have the meaning of Secular in the constitution, anyone can define the way they wish. So, BJP is 'communal' as per Congress (while Muslim League is surprisingly not), and Congress is 'pseudo-secular' according to the Lotus party.

We all agree that Pseudo-secularism means double standards. Double standards about the religion or creed. For the readers who are less fortunate in knowing some deeper information about it, it is not a phenomenon in India alone. I feel that the monarchy of British, are the culprits for the idea inception into India. But let us be rational; enough of that tirade of praising Indian glory before their rule and cursing British for all that we are now. They did for their own benefit, I am sure they would also agree with that. But what is more hurting and embarrassing at the same time is that our leaders, were loyal enough to carry it forward even in the independent India for various reasons, the prime reason being - Vote bank politics (A different name for 'Divide and rule').

Now, being a pseudo-secular as we would see in further arguments, is an art. An art mastered by a few, and a few think its all in their 'blood'. My endeavors would be to develop a universal workbook for the pseudo-secular, I am sure its difficult to be all-inclusive. But it would in the best of my efforts to do so. Yes, its universal, so that it can be applicable in any part of the universe, as long as there are species with different religions or creeds co-existing. Lets list it down point wise, on the basic 'qualifications', if 'you' aim to be a pseudo-secular. Some of the 'role-models' who have excelled in those particular points, is mentioned. Due to my limited knowledge as well as energy, I couldn't mention all their chief proponents. I hope readers would have that kind heart to forgive me for my mistake.

1. One has to be either an atheist or 'very' secular. Preferably, his/her background must belong to the religion/creed, which is bearing the brunt in the end. Also, claim that you know a lot about it, as its your 'own' religion. Then, you would not have reprimands from media or critics that you are attacking another religion. (DMK Chief, Karunanidhi 'safely' questions the qualification of Lord Rama in building the Sethu and qualifies the Ramayana as work of fiction.)

2. Claim that he/she have suffered terribly because of a religion and a creed, and so that its now his/her turn. Forget about the dates. The question is whether your race/religion/creed was suppressed or not. (Antisemitism, anti-Hindu propaganda)

3. Blame the religion and its saints and seers for being narrow minded or fundamentalists. Include their 'misdeeds' (use your own creativity if they aren't enough) in your propaganda media. Be generous in using the school books or books from universities to reflect your ideas. This has been a wonderful strategy of many who are already successful in this pursuit. (In the case of school books in US, CBSE books in India about Hinduism)

There has been instances in US, where the kids (particularly of Jewish or Hindu origin) complained at home of being teased at the school. They are induced a psychological guilt, of holding an identity which is made infamous by the text books.

4. Portray yourself as an intellectual. If you already have an image of 'intellectual', your job is easier. That is because, intellectuals have the 'freedom of speech' and 'freedom of expression'. Ofcourse, I don't deny that everyone is entitled to it. But, as you can see, the intellectuals are 'more' equal. When, pressed by the accused religion or to give an explanation, express that your are not a hater of that particular religion, and there are various view-points towards it, as the history is very 'complex'. (Professor Michael Witzel, Wales Professor of Sanskrit in the Department of Sanskrit and Indian Studies at Harvard University; Romila Thapar, the 'famous' historian for instance).

5. Media is always there to help; Feel free to demand their services whenever necessary.

6. Finally into arts. Again, having a talent in any of the fields of art, music, filmography would help the business greatly. For example paint anything obscene on the culture, just because you see an 'aesthetic' beauty in it. Ofcourse, media is readily there to support your freedom of expression (You-know-who! :D). You can always shoot a film/'documentary' on your version of 'history'. But, don't forget to mention that in the foreword or at the end, so that it would add to your credibility.

7. With all this, you might feel that you are selling your soul. But if you already have the 'Saviour' syndrome, that helps you immensely and makes you feel that everything you do is for their own good. It would be great if you feel you are 'blessed' with more knowledge about God, by the God himself, while most of the others are 'pagans'. But, even after this, if there is any trace of guilt, remember Money and Power buys everything...almost everything that is!

There are many more strategies. As I have mentioned, this is definitely not an exhaustive list. I would add some more when I find some more time. But, I hope I have made the point, and made it quite loud and clear.