An overwhelming majority of respondents appeared to support the idea that India belongs to all religions equally, not just Hindus
By NIRMANYU CHOUHAN,SANJEER ALAM
India has been a multi-religious society for centuries. Different religions have coexisted and created for themselves cultural niches in the social space. Religious pluralism has survived historical accidents and political maelstroms. But some sociopolitical events and a growing chorus to turn the country into a ‘Hindu Rashtra’ have created doubts. Is the long-cherished ideal of religious tolerance still close to people’s hearts? Is India’s secular social fabric under grave threat? The the pre-poll survey helps clear these doubts.
Lokniti CSDS pre-poll survey for 2024 Lok Sabha elections
The findings reveal that an overwhelming majority of respondents (79%) appeared to support the idea that India belongs to all religions equally and not just Hindus; that it must remain a country where people following different religions can live and practice their faith freely. This remarkable support for religious pluralism shows that religious tolerance continues to be a defining element of the social fabric.
It is natural for religious minorities to lay emphasis on religious pluralism. But the view that India belongs to followers of all religions is also held by members of the majority religion. Nearly eight in every 10 Hindus said that they have faith in religious pluralism. Only 11% of Hindus said that they think that India is nation of Hindus.
This story was originally published in thehindu.com. Read the full story here.