My First impression about Thailand!-2

Morning 5:30 am Bangkok time, half dead, exhausted and sleepless body walks around the huge Suvarnabhumi Airport to find a local sim card or a paid internet access- just then I see my friend waiting for me to arrive, perhaps from an hour or so more. He had made all the arrangements as discussed prior to my initiating the trip itself. I got my sim card fixed, got the data working, got my luggage picked and thus a I breath a sign of relief. Straight from 13 to 30 temperature I was overdressed for the place. As we step out of the airport, along with the lady who was appointed to receive, I could feel a drop of sweat by my temples. The was my first smile is Thailand (I hadn’t sweat in couple of months or eased my dress while in #Delhichills- the winter) and so much to my bird brains I almost forgot what is it like to drink chilled water trickling its way into your oesophagus, lovely sunrise and bustling airport I get into the van- air cooled, fresh wet-towel and quick introduction by the lady about the location, the city and the hotel #Eastin Golf at #Thana city. It was a good 30 mins drive on the broad tarred roads of the city, running mostly over the flyovers and between tall skyscrapers, well-disciplined road manners at traffic congestion, sights of digital advertising hordes- unlike flex banners all over in India and drizzles of rains every now and then. The rains and the traffic reminded me of Mumbai- city that never sleeps in India and displays a very similar welcome to Bangkok city. As we get past through couple of toll booths on the highway (although most of the roads looked like highway in India), diversions to various locations ( most of them sound very Indian but spelt differently), also a diversion to second international airport and so on, the road slowly turns into an austere city side, hosting some of the best villas and bungalows, perhaps the posh Thai once lived there. My brains trying hard to find someone on the way or on any of the balconies, perhaps it was too early, but then seamlessly, we enter the hotel gateway, roundabout to the reception via the water fountain to find another receiving team expecting our arrival. It felt like as it the hotel was part of the Villa avenue that was so admirable.

Here we start with welcome drink, little formalities for we foreigners and the woo-doo of the staff who leave you speechless with their undaunting customer service. We are walked through the stairs down towards the swimming pool and a passage of tiny boutique stores, across the stores and massage center we see the alfresco restaurant, I could imagine myself relaxing there over my next morning breakfast with coffee. It’s about half a mile walk to Building #3 of the vast golf resort hotel, maybe couple degree lesser in temperature to that of what one feels in the city. The entire hotel has a smoking corner outside the building which strange. Why would one have a smoking corner, just before to step into the building? They must be having smoking rooms and people must be largely partying indoors. Quizzically I asked the porter and he politely replied that the entire hotel is “non-smoking”. As we enter our little resort apartment there was mild fragrance of lemon grass, a bottle of Australian Red Wine, a bowl of exotic fruits and room temperature maintained to complete our Red-Carpet welcome. As I launch myself of the cosy sofa and move the curtains, I was amazed to see the expanse of lush green golf field, a small water body (golfers water area) and in the corner stands a huge tree under which was a hallmark temple neatly planted, perhaps to emphasis on Thai Culture. My heart goes hummmmm like a baby who found a lost toy (Reminds me of my first visit to Galle face hotel (aka Taj Samudra maybe) Sri-Lanka a few years ago).

I scanned my room completely, desperately wanting my morning Chai… With some catching up of news and office on-goings, found nothing. In a minute a team of two arrived to assist me with the facilities and handed me a teacup, hot water, a tiny bottle with some powder and a wooden sieve (so pretty that I did not mind stealing it). Initially I kept my dumb mind aside and as she finished introducing the facilities, I asked her to assist me with tea. Very diligently, the petite lady did the deal and said, “Enjoy your herbal tea Ms. Makandar”! Haan… That is it! A nice cup of herbal tea, aromatic and fresh feel.

This day was defined as my “Party Day” in the itinerary. I quickly unpacked my bag to check if there was anything suitable for the evening at all (with a busy schedule I did not even pack my bags orderly. All help from people around me, I was certain to be perplexed by the time it is to party). Nonetheless, found more than one option in my suitcase and to my goodness also a decent pair of sandals, what a sign of relief as much as anxious I was to visit this party in a new land. There was sufficient time in my hand and the always-busy-person that I am in India, here I was wondering what to do? Maybe Swim, try some cuisine to avoid food in the party, to visit some trying to gather souvenirs or…. Yes! The THAI Massage. I slowly stepped out of my room, passed no information or update to any friends present in other rooms and booked myself for a nice Thai Massage. Afterall this is the most talked about from the Thai returns in India, so why not? As I lay there in the living room facing towards the golf course view, reading my book on Ms. Indira Gandhi by Pupul Jayakar (I know it sounds boring but the love for biographies of personalities is irresistible, especially at airport bookstores) in no time I get a call to confirm that I am at my free will to walk into the Massage parlour. A luxury I always like to treat myself with. Here I was- the Indian queen in Thailand getting pampered by her Thai masseurs. Very relaxed, smooth, soothing lavender oil, an experience I can’t forget, though I recall my Ananda days for the bestest of the massages in my past. Just as I was to end, I see numerous calls from friends trying to figure out the time and place to meet to enter the party. One after one I reach out to each one of them and fix up a time that suits me to get on floor. By 7pm Bangkok time, I had my peach frock on, with hair that fell free until the curls at the end, subtle lip-colour, silvery heals (no stilettos for me), touch of Charlie perfume and just my phone- as I walk to aisle of the passage way towards the main hall, we all exchange pleasantries and discuss our challenges and time spent to get there from different parts of the world, to world of #EastinThana. None of us preferred to use the golf-cart as we did not wish to miss the pleasant walk in the evening. Lovely!

Where is our host? The birthday boy? It took us a few minutes to figure out the exact venue as we got distracted by a local wedding party which was also on the same day but across another hall. We figure out a door with shiny strings glittering afar. We walk by and slide the strings across that formed a curtain to be welcomed by hugs, kisses, roses and welcome shot. The evening just went by swaying here and there, dancing the salsa and doing the disco. Early dinner, late evenings and a set of hand-picked friends from all over the world makes it all the more precious moment in one’s life. A few Indians, Russians, friends from the USA, the Europe, Bali and where not… all were part of one universe this moment- Party in Bangkok with Johnathan our man.

Little about John- wonderful, generous, happy going, bigggg hearted man that he is- one cannot afford to forget. May he be blessed many more years to come and may we party many more times on his birthdays.

https://www.eastinhotelsresidences.com/eastinthanacitygolfbangkok/

Thailand! My First Hand Experience- 1

If you thought it is all fun and frolic to be in Thailand, you are mistaken atleast to begin with; the later bit of Thailand is definitely what you expect and perhaps more; unless otherwise you have the wherewithal to be a priority flyer with pre-stamped VISA in your passport! 
My most painful was that despite all the preparations, such as E-VISA by VFS, tickets from India to Bangakok and back and pre-destined locations to visit with hotel reservations etc.,. I had to go through the mess of dealing with unknown horde of masses standing in line for their VISA-On-Arrival stamps. The reason for this turbulent experience is- "Don’t understand English!" Agape I stand with an Oh my god! expression- A country known for its tourism, thriving on its world-wide tourist visitors and a country that has everything naturally available in abundance, lacks in ENGLISH?… Obviously I wasn’t expecting them to know Hindi or any other commonly used international or Indian linguistic expertise. Nonetheless, I went through a complete 20 minutes drama for a first timer and most painful indeed. 20 minutes of non-stop request trying to explain them to look into my documents or give me internet or let me talk to superiors or better help me with a alternate channel blah blah..,. was futile eventually resorting to helplessly look around for someone from India or an English speaking folk or a frequent traveler perhaps who can guide me through. Had I only known that I would be ridiculed to seek such fundamental help as this! A group of  young friends, perhaps Punjabi folks could only manage to laugh at me with statements like “What!” or pout their lips and giggle or just walk away too. In all this I was nearly breaking down in tearful despair whilst scanning the place around me- until I found a delicate young mother with her two kids, sitting around the corner of one of the lots of chair benches, certainly waiting for the father of the child. Hesitantly and with tears filled to the brim of my eyes, I walked up to her, but couldn’t, gather enough courage to communicate- What if she was local too? and to add much to this lop-sided flop story she was indeed a traveler but from China who we all know could beat the world if only they spoke in English that their now famous "Mandarin". Within no moment her husband arrived and to my relief gave me a smile, I was touched and instantly thought I might get him to help me. With some ease of mind- just for the fact that someone acknowledges me as a human in distress was indeed a blessing, but for my bad luck he just happened to smile at me and sadly there was no help. My heart sunk in dark solitude amidst the bustling morning crowd, with some still rubbing off their eyes and trying to sense their arrival in the most famous holiday destination. As I sit there, I watch more and more visitors joining the line, certainly they are all "Just Arrived". From now where in my head there was a sudden swift through my life sitting there in the waiting area and I was amazed that I could breakdown so easily even at this point in life. A complete mental and emotional spin of how I had reached this far in life was truly awakening, the horizon - my lifetime goal- To Travel around the world. Oh wow! How could I breakdown? No way I'm giving up to these less realized people around me to bully me with their half-backed English and arrogant tantrums.  

Sitting there, I took my moment to view the surroundings yet again, but with an open eye and confidence. I observed what people where doing; I walked up to all the officers check point one after the other and understood what are the duties they performed; still further I tried to figure out who were the other few desperate souls like me who dared to travel to other nations alone? Who is that other Shakila around me? 
Just then my eyes picked a handful, not really alone but guys who made friends while “in-line” or “during wait”. We exchanged glances of glee and smiles. I then managed to get to the usual process and walk past a shorter line called “Pay for online VISA”. Once I got there, I told her to try and find my details online through my passport, she couldn’t help me yet again and I was sent to another officer for E-VISA (I thought maybe something different to online VISA). The technology buff that I am I know the basic difference between E-Governance and M-Governance, but in an unknown land, you dare not expose your knowledge unless you know who you are dealing with. Thankfully, that counter had too many windows I was sent to one for discussion immediately guided by an officer . However, the man I was talking across too had no clue about what I said or rather asked, but this time around I got lucky, with a young working Indian along with his friend on an other line (paid) was going through this long process made space for me with dignity and chivalry, waited for me to finish my discussion until the officer thoroughly scanned all my documents- thanks to a few good ones still holding on to their chivalry and manners.
Thus I felt like I've made some progress- an eagerly waiting anxious girl hoping for some good news in form of quick resolution to the now 30 minutes drama. But there was yet another irritating part coming ahead- He scans through the documents (everything from bills, to tickets to printed VISA copies to hotel bookings etc, etc.,.) knows fully well that I carried an E-VISA valid from VFS (Only valid source) and was one the traveler who is all meticulously planned and prepared for the trip, however he clearly denied to pass it to the right team and said “This counter VISA on ARRIVAL only”. You know, sometimes you don’t want to be abusive but your mind says “WTF” and your body is like “Who the hell are you?”….. But mind you, I was alone and not the least of help except for myself in the most holy land for Buddhism and Hindu primitives ofcourse. I pushed it hard on myself to keep mum in the given scenario and subtly yet with grit asked him "how long?" He said “wait!” sternly, as if I was eating up on his time or his morning coffee- whatever! I starred right through his eyes and said- “Where?”… He showed me to the waiting area for my passport.
The most stressed moment at this point in time. What if I never got my passport back for starring at him? Good Lord, I would never achieve my goal for lifetime and the least, wont even be sent back to India perhaps. Just about a handful people know where exactly I was at that moment of my life. My desperation to get my passport was more than my desperation to see India again. The fear of losing myself in this Thai speaking nation, the non-vegetarian foodies, close to Indian culture but nothing close to Indian women's helplessness, no common communicating language and to beat it all no one willing to help, what would be my future? Would it all end on the Soi in Thailand?
Yet again, our eyes met- The boy who conversed and waited along with me giving me all that yes and no for my statement while at the counter made place for me to to be seated awaiting his passport to be returned too, I now had a company. However before I could sense the company with me he got his passport and went to join one of many lines for immigration. I got panicked and immediately went to the desk and said, “give my passport I wish to pay again and get in there”. He said “No”!... Yet another scary moment, I surely did not want to argue, no matter how much I wanted to really shout, scream and create a ruckus over there. Shake the entire airport management and call for some Indian embassy's help for the hot headed chick that I can be. But, I kept my cool, managed to compose myself and did not want to behave rude- simply because I dreaded that they will then capture me, check on me, question my countrymen for being obnoxious Indian, especially women and to top it women entrepreneurs… I laugh at it now.
Really, I could actually think on toes and while one non-communicating set of brutes dealt with me the way they did. Whatever happened to my “Get your supervisor” attitude? Hahaha… Eventually, my passport was in my hand and still in my head I was the one holding a valid VISA and waited in the line that said “E-VISA”. Trying my luck if at all- “Maybe my name would appear in her system that says- Miss Shakila Makandar, our mistake ma’am, please come this way” and gave a cup of hot coffee/tea perhaps! My bad, no airport drama of that sorts happened, she was just as rude in her body language as were the lower level officers at the entry. Nonetheless, got my VISA-on-Arrival from E-VISA, counter number 4. Right at that moment, while I made my best effort to get through the immigration, to my relief I see a friend of mine, passing by. Oh my God!
I told myself, this S**T actually happens in real live, not just in Bollywood fictions. That is it. Stupid process in THAILAND, they need to re-model their immigration into integrated systems… But, I’m not the one tying the bell to the cat, indeed not! I was through the immigration and said S̄wạs̄dī to Thailand in Thai to myself!

Talaq, Talaq, Talaq V/S Qubul, Qubul, Qubul!?

Talaq, Talaq, Talaq V/S Qubul, Qubul, Qubul!?

The Muslim Women bill

(Also referred to as- Protection of right on marriage bill)

“I wasn’t conceived religiously- my existence is a proof of love, but now I am questioned on identity based on religion, why? Is a Hindu daughter different to Muslim daughter? Are individual concerns based on religion? Is divorce meant to ease the tormented life or devastate the mutual co-existence? Is divorce in today’s given situation a solution to a problem, or a problem to a solution? Is it a legislative boon or a curse? Is it so religiously different that we needed only “Muslim Women Bill”? ”- Shakila

The Muslim Women Bill- was it pursued in the right light or was it a fast-track solution to disturb a thin fabric of the nation’s religious sentiments? My politically jinxed mind likes to know the moto behind the bill; why is it "Muslim Women Bill" and why not- "Indian Women Bill"?  

Questioning from common man’s perspective

Women, Marriage and Problems! That’s the series of action to complete a women’s life irrespective of religious background or societal status. A female adolescent at Indian homes means noise within the community, relative, close society and alike. It becomes imperative to let out this ‘burdensome-ripening-fruit’ into the market for the eventuality- Marriage the most vulnerable and uncertain outcome.  The failure of which is equally brutal and painful than Talaq (Islamic Divorce) for both man and woman. The universal truth- a couple in any relationship is a mere agreement whether wilfully or forcefully put together; once they agree to this engagement (either by guardians or themselves) the later proceedings are completely decisive on individual choices. It was the case in the former India too and it is much vivid in this present scenario as well. So, what have we achieved by passing a "Muslim Women Bill"?

Practicality in Muslim Marriages:

In truth, marriages aren’t split by uttering “Talaq, Talaq & Talaq”, it is perhaps misunderstood or misrepresented to the non-Muslim community by large. Neither just “Qubul, Qubul, Qubul” nor just “Talaq, Talaq & Talaq” represent the act. The practical, legal and ethical process is followed as much as in other commonly known marriages. The utterance of “Qubul (I agree/ accept)” is similar to “I DO” in Christians or walking 7 steps (Saptapadi) in Hindus. Similarly, “Talaq” also will be commissioned and legalised to re-marry; even though it is in Muslim family! Talaq or Khulasa (Women seeking divorce) for that matter without counselling or parent’s vigilance is mere exaggeration of the unpleasant situation. The priest (Moulvi) summons the couple before confirming the decision to provide them with a legal certificate- a certificate of divorce is issued and entered in the register. Now, why dint the government think beyond the stereo type and why was it focusing on "Muslim Women"- "Triple Talaq”? 

Women in India- as we know from the history (that we know) represented women are held in high regard in our societal positioning. The unbiased and unopinionated truth always existed in this very nation, irrespective of the fundamental difference in cast, religion or the creed that they belonged. We have references to some fantastic women who have achieved what they did in their fields that brought in significant revolution in the country. Jhansi Rani Lakshmi Bai, Jyotibha Phule, Noor Inayat Khan are few names to mention among historic women in India. These legendries were not made by men, they made themselves; they sunk into pool of tortures and yet nurtured the womanhood in them, whist similar marital issues that existed even then. However, they found the space for equality and gracefully delivered their task. So, what is "Stereo Type" in India? Who is "Stereo Typed" in Indian society? Why is religion recognised as a base for "Superstitious Believes"? Remembering the famous and most watched social media video of MP- Ms. Meenakshi Lekhi’s from the parliament stating “Muslims should come out of superstitions” is hilarious. As though marrying in a temple, with the priest chanting mantras, before the pit of fire were not superstitious enough in Hindus or for that matter any ritual from Hindu followers is still staunch Hinduism! (my bad humour side)

(Easier Ref: https://www.facebook.com/MLekhiBJP/videos/456910354856405/  ). Superstition with respect to family, rituals, upbringing, socializing, communalizing etc is mere act of keeping likeminded individuals together. Let one not misuse ones’ superstition to negate or demoralize the other. The fallacy is in their head, let that not creep into the larger community resulting in relentless cacophony. 

Shah-Bano- The hyped judicial case study, was the potent reference to "Muslim Woman Bill", seems over-hyped. Shah-Bano, fought as a rightful citizen in a democratic country undergoing a wave of reformation and development, and not as a Muslim Woman. Although it is a bold act for a woman from Islamic background to put forward a strong case, there have been many such woman of that era who have exhibited commendable courage in other fields. However, this is a Judicial matter; the case was based on religion and not womanhood hence to regard her for boldness and unwavering faith in Indian judicial system in formative days was certainly welcomed, but is it the same now? This historic case is History and in the given circumstances it is unjust to infer. In case of nay references, the perspective of our current system and leaders should be to treat it as first and fresh to provide a new age solution.  2019 is incomparable with 1819 or 1919 or even 1999. This is an era where Democracy is felt in every act, Freedom is exercised in every endeavour, Judicial supremacy questioned undauntingly and Fourth Pillar of the estate is at its freewill. Wish fifth pillar is enlightened too; allowing the supreme power [vote or veto] in agree in unison for such bills.

Is it applicable to all?  Although, India is free from polygamy ever since 1956, the silent practice still exists. Most of the Indian Hindu men, who are compelled to live such lives are stuck with this plight because they cannot divorce, and thus shall not disclose their other side of live. According to an article in E-Economic Times, survey conducted by Gleeden 52% of women and 57% of men have already cheated on their partners during a business trip!? This is alarming. Majority of Indians have accepted the global trend of living a neutral lifestyle; marriages have lost their religious belonging long ago. Present generation seeks- fairness, equality and unbiased legal solution than that of a one-sided, religious based and propagated bill such as this.

Hypothetically, let’s consider the husband will not divorce at his free will and then woman continues to live in the given situation (which is mostly in the case of "Hindu Marriages"). The couple in the house is compelled to live an unhealthy marital life. What is that one factor that stops him from pursuing a new partner, minus the legal necessities? If the man forced to stay in a relationship stops the contribute to the family, then does she have an option, other than divorce or informally separate with consent (hopefully)? Who shall be her caretaker if the divorce happens (or doesn’t happen in the case of this Bill)? What is the value of divorce V/S value of tormented lives? What is the solution to these women struggling their lives though they have a capable husband but in a futile relationship? These are general thoughts considering both are Muslims. What happens to Hindu women married to Muslim family or Hindu man married to a Muslim lady? Do they follow the same bill? What if the both, never followed Islam as a religion or practiced the faith? What will happen to the children from such inter-faith marriages?  

Many such questions go unanswered because neither the women who cheered the passing of the bill thought through it, nor did we as influencers had time enough to discuss. Yet, decision is made. To recall from the same video mentioned above, we see other parliamentarians voicing out loud during her speech- they were asked to wait- wait until the end. Perhaps our respectable speaker felt the speech is interesting (Ms. Lekhi’s exemplary oratory skills are never gone unnoticed) and like a school evaluator he just passed it. Perhaps with a whim that passing bill is equal to good oratory skills, even if the theory/logic is not well researched.

Passing of Bills for modern India: an approach to sensitive bills- such as "Muslim Women"

Would it have been better for government to conduct a survey on its relevance of the bills?

a.       Platform: A primary platform to register domestic issues in India to analyse Male V/S Female divorce ratio. A survey report stating the percentile of cases based on religion, gender and the causes for divorce. We may also find a reason to pass “Male Divorcee Bill”.

b.       Judicial Survey: Divorce cases filed in the past 5-7 years analysis (not historic) to direct the passing of bill in right light. The time spent from registering a Divorce case to resolving the case, the action plans, the reason and the alimony. Perhaps, it may result with a solution to others in common eventually contributing to Indian “Marriage Act”.

c.       Instead of a bill, should there be a scheme that would impact women in general across the nation? Or a Scheme focussing on educating Muslim women on their rights, empowerment programs, single parenting schemes, family welfare schemes for single parent child etc. Such creative inventions which could boost the morale in these Muslim women and infuse the factor of respect and self-esteem, rather than fear.

If there is a sensitive touch to penetrate the mass- it is through a religious approach. The title "Muslim Women Bill" is itself narrative to this line of thought. Marriages in India have had similar effects whether it is Hindu, Muslim, Christian or any other religion. It is in the Indian fabric that men were considered dominant and women are supposed to be subservient to their men. There was an era that lived through this and then surpassed through a series of "Social Reformation" uplifting women. Religion is a man’s invention for civilised living, none would suggest inhuman discrimination among men and women in marriage. Islam is no different. The holy book in reference has given generous space to its Muslim woman If one can read carefully and with an unbiased mind. The taste of which is felt by the well-read, well-educated, radical thinking, cultured Muslim families. Right education, right thoughts and right association is very critical in one’s upbringing the same is true to Muslims. The mere lack of "Right enlightenment" in Indian Muslim families have led to devastating domestic lives with repercussions. Citing examples of Prophets or Godmen or Gods itself doesn’t serve the purpose because we do not co-exist, we can only refer to the aspects applicable in today's lifestyle; doesn’t mean we deploy a theological bench to edit the historic evidences. Furthermore, the theologist draw right comparisons and efficiently imply to suit current lifestyle. Optimizing these resourceful philanthropists and theologists, should be the focus to enlighten the innocent common men.  

Passing of this bill might have been a winning debate and a pride to politicians, but for the common man, it is just another act of nothingness. 

Disclaimer:

All the above mentioned is purely from individual perspective and interest.

No intentions to hurt anybody’s feelings or sentiments or any person in general.

The mere idea to bring some sense of equality and belongingness among the youth of the nation and enlighten them with points to ponder.

Welcomed to comment/review/feedback/inputs.

Fundamental Right- NEW Awareness

Remembering the PREAMBLE

PREAMBLE 

WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a SOVEREIGN, SOCIALIST, SECULAR, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC and to secure to all its citizens’ 

JUSTICE, social, economic and political; 

LIBERTY of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship; 

EQUALITY of status and of opportunity; and to promote among them all 

FRATERNITY assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation; 

IN OUR CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY this 26th day of November 1949, do HEREBY ADOPT, ENACT AND GIVE TO OURSELVES THIS CONSTITUTION

******************************************************************************************************

First of all, it is true that India is a democratic country. We all have equal rights to assert our democracy as long as we are part of this nation. This is what we have learnt during our growing days and seamlessly exercise these rights as we grow up to be ‘contributing’ as citizens in the betterment of the nation. 

Governance- if we can redefine for ease of understanding is a public forum elected to bring limitations to factors that are in fluid state and cannot be left unbounded causing inadvertent damage to the nation in toto. Any force, if left to move on its own, then the resulting effect can only be estimated to be exponential. Therefore, government is a body that was formed to be elected ‘by the people’ and their governing rules should be ‘for the people’ resolving the troubles ‘of the people’ i.e., to bring decency and civilised system into the nation that shall be commonly applied when once is not in their personal fortress or realm of life, this means- As long as I am within the four walls of my residence or my personal space, I can follow my religion, my prayers, my practise etc that would not affect the general lives of either my neighbour or influence a community against government or any governing body or involve in anything that brings harm to the nation. But the question now is- is it possible to expect this from present scenario in the country? Is our constitution in question? Over the years have we subtly amended its original existence to unknown such that the purpose- that is to secure all its citizen has weakened?  

It is true that we are all in a country that is diversified by not just religion but also by colours, food habits, lifestyles, geographies and various such substantial factors- by and large was greatly welcomed within our social circle in the past, has now come to light in the recent years that belonging to certain religion or cast is a stigma. But, whilst the tasteful sharing of all the above mentioned, we continue to discriminate on one major factor called Religion that has far spread its evil wings wide into our core fundamental rights gifted by the constitution. This is the kind of ‘Stigma’ that we occurred to us as growing children, nor was it instilled by our parents or neighbours or families or friends into our routine. It was the thing of the past, perhaps 18th century and lasted till about mid of 19th century and faded with the dawn of literate, open minded, tolerant and modern 21st century. Today, my deep introspection has revealed that we have come back full cycle in terms of social reformation, understanding the constitution in truth by every letter and word, re-creating awareness on brotherhood and blood wars or simply- returning to dark ages of the new era.  

Fundamental rights (wikipedia, n.d.) are those rights which are essential for intellectual, moral and spiritual development of individuals. As these rights are fundamental or essential for existence and all-round development of individuals, hence called as 'Fundamental' rights. Fundamental rights apply universally to all citizens including the governing body itself- be it President or Prime Minister or just a civilian; irrespective of race, birthplace, religion, caste or gender. There are six fundamental rights recognized by the Indian constitution: 

1. Right to equality (Articles. 14-18) 

2. Right to freedom (Articles. 19-22) 

3. Right against exploitation (Articles. 23-24) 

4. Right to freedom of religion (Articles. 25-28) 

5. Cultural and Educational Rights (Articles. 29-30), and 

6. Right to constitutional remedies (Articles. 32-35) 

Here's the new evolution to reformation: 

Right to Equality- Nation’s outlook into "Equality" as a subject matter looks very well. It is also very well professed by other nationals who think that India is the most tolerant country with such diversity and yet the citizens of the nation have the integrity that never let go the pride of ‘Unity’ in this nation. 

1949, when the constitution was released it meant to remove all the evils that prevailed for very long in Indian (then Bharat) history. BharataKanda- Indian Sub-Continent, went through life of slavery, brutality in terms of penalization for meager crimes such as theft of robbery, common-man feared cruelty that was imposed on them based on discrimination at various levels- Gender discrimination was on the top of the chart- Male V/S Female and their limitations respectively followed by Caste, Race, Colour, Religion and other trivial factors. Truth be told, from the original Indian history that hailed for thousands of years, it's hardly evident during the administration of great leaders that such huge range of discrimination existed. However, given to the colonization and Indian Colonial Era- we were left stranded amidst learning, unlearning and relearning the government norms. The civilians acted as the government suggested- majority of these suggestions were only aimed at breaking India into as many divergent little chunks as possible. Thanks to our great leaders, who could bring in the reformation in the form of “The Constitution of India” that eradicated these discriminators in the name of united nation thus continuing to accept the nation and its culture as guided by the constitution.  

This is true that the citizens play a very important role in not just forming the present government but also to continue to support the chosen proving it to be the most capable one. Though people were certainly deprived of education, freedom to live and use common and public facilities due to the main differentiating factor- Religion/ Cast. A devastating state of social affairs across the country made it rather difficult a project to bring awareness. This being the primary evil to address, almost whole nation took part in establishing this “Right to Equality” very efficiently. Media, Marketing, Movies, entertainment channels- Theatre, Music, Street Plays etc., every industry worked towards this goal and eventually we achieved it all along by 1990. This is Indian Citizen and their patriotism expressed in several forms.  

Today, as we read this article there is perhaps a small village or district that still have witness the daylight of such revolution in India, there may be a Muslim child raped or a Hindu boy bullied or a Kashmiri student stone pelted which we should await to read in the Newspaper this morning. It is rather depressing to see the cruelty that is publicly exhibited, making mockery of one’s own religion, community or cast in the pretext of safeguarding one’s own interest. This is further extended to other segments such as Employability, Education quota, ratio of admissions to public education/employment etc. General Category privileges V/S Other category privileges is lucid in our everyday news. If this is our existing “Fundamental Right to Equality” then what is Equality in principle? We are citizens of this country and it is our responsibility to retain the purpose of our constitution rather than let anyone exploit it in the name of power or leadership. 

How is it to be acceptable either then or now that there is cast/creed/religion etc that can define a social stature of a person. What is the meaning of General Category in our current constitutional arrangement? Why shouldn’t the social strata be (if at all it should) for reasons of discussions or gathering otherwise- in the form of education, specialization etc? Why are we continuing to segment the population in terms of the era that are bygone? Where is the EQUALITY in this time while we are talking about “Global Justice”?  

We must voice out these differences clearly in-order to retain the oneness in the nation. We are privileged generation that has many quick tool, tricks and mechanism available with the advent of technology, we are not limited to running a rally or conducting ‘Protests/Strikes/Hartals’ or going on a ‘Silent Protest/ Fasting/Satyagrah’. We now have access to anyone and everyone within a click of a button- USE IT to remain INDIAN! 

Inequality exercised brutally- refer Case Studies: 

1. SC/ST (Jatvas) V/S Upper Class (Takurs) in UP over a marriage processions/Baraat- Justice was lame. Ref:  

2. Kathua, Unnao rape- The entire family went through torments including brutal death. 

3. Khanaiya Kumar JNU- Sedition & Criminal charges under IPC Sec- 124 (A) and 120(B) respectively 

4. Cow Slaughter- the right to moral policing to pick possible Muslim peasant or trader involved in any cattle related business- categorized, tortured and many beaten to death across the country 

Right to Freedom- yes there is all the freedom we as a nation wanted during our freedom struggle- freedom of speech & expression, gathering in assemblies & forming Unions, moving from one state to another or choosing a particular place for living within the nation or even to start your own trade or business- because we were in the caught in the claws of foreigners. All of the above mentioned were achieved with a purpose and resolve- it was called FREEDOM; to this extent, that eminent personalities from various parts of this nation sacrificed every ounce of their world to create this freedom that we are proud to pronounce at every given opportunity, we are proud to use at any given point in time, we use it very subconsciously in our day to day life. This “Freedom” was so important for India, not only to be free from existing rulers, but also to hear out to civilians at that time, whose grief never reached the powerful sitting in the decision-making capacity. Let’s look into couple of these aspects one at a time-  

Freedom of Speech & Expression- has changed in these few years- Social media, technology and other innovative discoveries that are our new tools to democracy, were supposed to enable us as a developing nation has snatched the freedom away within a jiffy. Every moment, every action, every event, everything that one does - ethical, unethical; legal, illegal; good, bad & ugly is all available for everyone's consumption; and all of it costs less than a penny- thanks to Internet. The question isn’t about is it wrong to use? The question is rather about why is it misused? Freedom of speech in any form should also follows the same mandate as to maintaining decency and healthy conversation, instead to be misused as a medium to instigate, propagate or provoke ill-will onto the audience.   

The best use of it is made during the Elections. Any party campaigning took the best advantage of such digital medium and became unabashed before public losing their image, value and also losing the sense of basic decency, dignity and humanity. It has time and again come to light to the general public like us that most of the heinous acts that were once hidden as a matter of disgrace and secretly dealt with the judicial/legal system has now become a pride to showcase in public making the government shaky and less reliable.  

Freedom of assemblies, alliances & Unions- to ensure the communities- labor, working, professional, bureaucratic and others alike are treated equally in the eyes of justice. There’s no more slavery, favoritism or unhealthy practices at working place, factory or free sites such as homes and other conventional working places. Most of us have heard of Unions in colleges and universities, Factories and Industries associated with Unions, Law associations for legal brainstorming and authorizing the practice, etc these were formed freely and were permitted to exists because the agenda was directed towards the large well-being of common man and his life in total. Where are we heading today? Every political and profitable person/party secretly forms a group, whose agenda is mostly selfish than selfless towards the nation. The entire motto of providing ‘Freedom’ to common man and his well-being has turned out to be political or profit making in nature, driving the innocent civilians into con-works, terrorism, communalism, and other such atrocious activities causing discordance.  

Our constitution includes right to freedom to ensure harmonious living to one and all under one nation, one flag, one anthem and one government in order. It should be the government who understands the meaning of Freedom under the constitution and imbibes the same whilst propagating its right use rather than its misuse. Use "Right to Freedom" rightly. Citizen is always guided by government; else no nation would need a government.  

Right to freedom of religion: The most important but vulnerable and bleak matter. Religion - is and will be individual choice; the choice made purely out of one's own will to practice in-order to bring work-life balance, orderliness, peace of mind and positivity in one's life or any other reason one should find to practice for his own well-being. If religion can be left to one’s individual interest, the world will be a better place. Nonetheless, the fact is- this is the most vulnerable aspect in people's mind as this brings sense of communism and belongingness easily in them and that has proved ‘good for all political reasons’ to be exploited. For Eg- if only one says that I follow “Lord Sri-Krishna” as a god, even casually to a total stranger and that incidentally the stranger also acknowledges to follow the same, they both along with their entire family get friendly within no time. This is the strength and also the weakness that any religion asserts in one’s mind. Whether one likes it or not, but I can bet on the fact that any other factor might not be as important as religion in gathering favored votes. This is not just here, entire world in a way or the other follows religious politics, without which there are bleak chances of winning the elections; to this tune missionaries of respective religions also play a very political role in rubbing shoulders with aspiring or popular politicians. But this is not what we are worried about, isn’t it?  

Sadly, I’m certainly worried about the fact that this single aspect- sensitive yet vulnerable has left deep scare in our ‘united-by-diversity’- nation. Our house problems have become others’ passage to enter our home and ruin our peace. Our home is cracking slowly and parting with each other internally. From “very few states during independence to every language in a land mass is a state” has become the trend; from everyone is Indian to “Hindu” in Indian and the others are- minorities living on mercy- is in today’s air; from hugging a buddy studied together to “Oh! Your last name is Kumar” is the conversation. Wow! We have lost it all one by one. Faith, trust and confidence on our own is questionable. Our binding reason “Being Indian, Being Human” has lost in this era of great literacy, booming economy and well settled life. Who is happy with all this? Who is enjoying the fruits of innocent, naïve and blending civilians? Who is being exploited for power and money? Point to Ponder. 

Our constitution never says anything regarding such religious freedom, but it never shrugged off the matter either. Considering the kind of cast system, discrimination and other differences it was a very thoughtful act to have included Right to Freedom of Religion, however the current state of affairs are not any different to the then scenario; except the fact we are now fighting within the educated community while we had to earlier educate "right to religious freedom" to the uneducated community. 

Right to Freedom of Religion is to practice at one’s own will and in one’s own place, not to exploit it to be imposed on every civilian in the country. It is not “Religion” based country, India is a diversified country, unified by efforts of every individual’s independent contribution. It a fundamental flaw if one wishes to rule a country based on religious grounds. Great administrators have tasted mud whilst this trial, they fall flat on their faces even before they realized the mistake. Civilians don’t wish you administer their homes, they wish you administer their steady income for better lives. We need employment, better payments and some better use of our taxes, not religious discourse from governments.  

   

Right to Education- "Our Constitution fathers did not intend that we just set up hovels, put students there, give untrained teachers, give them bad textbooks, no playgrounds, and say, we have complied with Article 45 and primary education is expanding... They meant that real education should be given to our children between the ages of 6 and 14" - (MC Chagla, 1964) (righttoeducation.in , n.d.)- there were hundreds of programs that were initiated to bring educational reform in the country.  

To remind- Dr. B. R. Ambedkar was a fine example of what education can do to a person and his story was literally included in every syllabus and in every standard. Likewise, Mahatma Gandhi- a man from Hindu Gujarati family who went on to become a Barrister and later was awarded the title ‘Mahatma’ and is known for his work greatly through non-violence (Africa and Indian continent) and hence Mahatma. These were more inspiring stories for - educated, uneducated and to be educated class alike and such testimonials encouraged education in India; despite the fact that the entire nation’s population was going through economic pitfalls; majority of the nation survived of petty earnings to make their living but still were able to manage to enroll the next generation to engage under some government scheme or the other to ensure education took place as a mass project nevertheless the bread winning load was shared by all at home. Therefore, we saw an era of Joint families, farming families, increased number of government schools, respectful and grateful jobs like Teachers, engineers, doctors etc had flourished without religious bias or discrimination.  

At present- everything has changed in terms living, social gathering, number of government schools or even government hospitals for that matter. The fundamental right to education has become commercial, the need to spread education as a source for better living has become a challenge to common man. Government schools are in peril, teachers aren’t being paid well, infrastructure is least of conditions etc. YET-we say- There is Education?! But discriminated in a way. Wealthy people v/s poor people. Upper society school v/s lower society school. Highly paid teachers v/s hardly paid teachers. If this is right to EDUCATION- we are here!? 

The above 4 out of 6 points are part of our fundamental right in Indian Constitution. The reason to touch base on these pointers was to simply remind people with like-minded thoughts to come together and help the nation and its citizen in continuing to follow what India use to be, unlike where we are standing now- New ERA of discrimination, New ERA of cast system, New ERA of fighting for our own right, New ERA of belonging to this nation. We have to re-identify now, emphasis that we are also Indians instead of just saying "I'm Indian". We are in an ERA of fighting our own evils. This must end before we enter into another war zone on religious, communal or identification grounds.