Chennai: National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) chairman Justice V Ramasubramanian emphasized the importance of instilling a sense of humanity in future generations to foster communal harmony. Speaking at the launch of ‘Unity India,’ a national forum dedicated to communal unity, at CPR Convention Centre on Saturday, he highlighted that unity is intrinsic to human creation but has deviated over time, reported the Indian Express.
Quoting a Tamil song, he remarked, “Unless you are a human being, you can never be an Indian, Christian, Muslim, or Hindu.” He also noted that true unity does not necessitate unanimity, as differences exist even within small groups.
A Faizur Rahman, Secretary General of the Islamic Forum for the Promotion of Moderate Thought, cited a Pew Research Centre survey, ‘What Can Improve Democracy?’ The study, which gathered responses from over 30,000 individuals across 24 countries, revealed that Indians prioritize economic reforms, better policies, improved politicians, government reforms, and responsible citizenship over religious divisions.
He pointed out that Hindus and Muslims coexist harmoniously in everyday life, but political interests often attempt to create polarization. Other speakers, including Irshad Mecca from Moderate Thought and Justice N L Rajah, discussed how social media algorithms amplify hatred.
Justice P N Prakash criticized politicians and religious leaders, stating that “politicians and priests are mafias of the soul.” The panel urged political figures to refrain from exploiting religion for electoral gains and instead work towards preserving national unity.
