1 May 2024: A seminal report titled “The Status of Freedom of Religion or Belief in India since 2014 – A Report,” authored by Irfan Engineer, Director of the Centre for Study of Society and Secularism, in collaboration with Media House, was launched in Mumbai. The report, a meticulous examination of the state of religious freedom in India, comes at a critical juncture marked by significant political and social transformations.
During the panel discussion that followed the book release, Justice Abhay Thipsay, a respected former Judge of Bombay and Allahabad High Court, emphasized the report’s relevance amidst the evolving political landscape of India. He lauded its role in documenting violations of freedom of religion and belief, especially in the face of growing threats to fundamental liberties.
Irfan Engineer, the author, shed light on the pivotal year of 2014, which witnessed a notable shift in the country’s approach to religious freedom. He highlighted the challenges faced by marginalized groups and the state’s utilization of its power to suppress them, employing both legislative and administrative measures.
Justice Thipsay commended the report’s thorough documentation and found its recommendations invaluable for informing future actions. He stressed the necessity of such resources in combating entrenched biases and stereotypes, particularly against minority communities perpetuated by certain segments of society.
Dr. Ram Puniyani, an esteemed author and social activist, praised the report for capturing the erosion of democratic institutions and the rise of polarization and hatred in Indian politics over the past decade. He provided insights into the multifaceted factors contributing to this troubling trend and its implications for religious freedom.
Advocate Mihir Desai, a prominent human rights lawyer and President of PUCL, Maharashtra, critically examined the judiciary’s role during the same period. He highlighted instances where the judiciary had failed to address critical human rights issues effectively, such as the scrapping of Article 370 and the NRC, which may exacerbate social tensions in the future. Desai urged for further documentation of judicial omissions to gain a comprehensive understanding of religious freedom in India.
The release of this comprehensive report marks a significant contribution to the ongoing discourse on religious freedom in India. It offers valuable insights into the current state of affairs and the challenges ahead, serving as a vital resource for policymakers, scholars, and activists alike.
