How Congress PMs fueled the rise of Hindu nationalism
Mar 26, 2024
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Veteran journalist Neerja Chowdhury discusses how Congress PMs fueled the rise of Hindu nationalism in India. They explore Indira Gandhi's use of Hindu sentiment, airing Ramayan and Mahabharat on TV, Shabano's story, Mandal Report vs. Mandir Movement, and influential men around PMs. A journalist also recounts the aftermath of Indira Gandhi's assassination.
Decisions by Congress PMs like Rajiv Gandhi, Vishwanath Pratap Singh, and P.V. Narasimha Rao shaped Hindu nationalism.
Congress leaders like Indira Gandhi strategically utilized Hindu sentiment for political gains.
Deep dives
Congress Prime Ministers' Decisions and Rise of Hindu Nationalism
Decisions made by Congress Prime Ministers significantly influenced the rise of Hindu nationalism in India. Rajiv Gandhi's decisions, followed by counter-decisions by Vishwanath Pratap Singh and P.V. Narasimha Rao, played crucial roles in shaping the current political landscape. For instance, Vishwanath Pratap Singh's implementation of the Mandal Commission report and Narasimha Rao's handling of the Babri Masjid demolition incident were pivotal moments that fueled the growth of Hindu nationalism.
Indira Gandhi's Politicization of Hindu Sentiment
During Indira Gandhi's tenure, there was a noticeable trend towards politicizing Hindu sentiment as a strategic political move. Events like the Meenakshipuram conversions and outreach to the RSS reflected a calculated approach to align with Hindu interests. Indira's efforts to appease Hindu sentiments and engage with Hindu organizations indicate a deliberate shift towards harnessing Hindu identity for political advantage.
Rajiv Gandhi's Handling of Shah Bano Case
Rajiv Gandhi's response to the Shah Bano case showcased the complex interplay between political considerations and social issues. His initial support for the Supreme Court judgment in favor of Shah Bano's maintenance rights transformed into appeasement of conservative Muslim sentiments, leading to internal party pressures and broader societal repercussions. The episode highlighted the challenges of balancing religious sensitivities with legal rulings within the political landscape.
Narasimha Rao's Approach to Ayodhya and Mandal Commission
Narasimha Rao's tenure marked by the Ayodhya dispute and the implementation of the Mandal Commission report reflected a blend of political pragmatism and historical consequences. His decisions, particularly regarding Ayodhya and Mandal, had far-reaching impacts on social harmony and political dynamics. Rao's management of these sensitive issues underlined the intricate balance between governance, identity politics, and ideological shifts.
We're currently on a break for Holi celebrations and will be back with our regular show tomorrow, the 27th of March.
However, since it's election season, we're revisiting an insightful conversation that originally aired on The Sandip Roy Show. In this conversation, writer and host Sandip Roy sits down with veteran journalist and contributing editor of The Indian Express, Neerja Chowdhury, to discuss how Congress Prime Ministers fueled the rise of Hindu nationalism. Neerja's book, 'How Prime Ministers Decide,' delves into the behind-the-scenes stories of how Indian Prime Ministers made some of the most monumental decisions that shaped the country.
Produced by Shashank Bhargava and Niharika Nanda Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar
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