Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Feb 16: "Caste system is a hard truth of our country. Without uprooting the caste structure from our society secular ideals cannot succeed in this country," opined MLA of Gujarat and social activist Jignesh Mevani.

Mevani was speaking on the subject ''Secular democracy: Challenges and expectations' at a seminar organised by Civil Liberties Collectives in the city on Saturday, February 15.

Presenting his views on the subject, Jignesh further said, "An NGO has made a detailed study of 98 types of untouchability practiced in 1590 villages of Gujarat. However, I have not seen a single person, except Dalits, who identify themselves as progressive thinkers, fighting for eradication of untouchability.

"In our country, one human being is not ready to accept another as human being. If we do not change this view, any number of discussions and seminars on secularism will be of no use. We are unable to think beyond the ideological differences that existed between Mahatma Gandhi and Dr B R Ambedkar.

"Under the present situation in our country, Dalits and Muslims have united together. This is a good opportunity to fight against untouchability. In addition, attempt should also be made to create awareness on secularism. Though there are ideological differences among people, living in harmony leads to eradication of untouchability. This message should be sent across to all the citizens of this country.

"We have to make a resolution to remove fascist forces including Narendra Modi and Amit Shah by defeating them in electoral politics. We should be determined to protect the secularism and constitution of our country. I am even ready to sacrifice on my ideology in order to fight against the fascist forces of this country," he said.

"In spite of efforts by RSS, we have to put in lot of hardwork to propagate secularism. We have to create an environment in villages where RSS cannot step in. Those who believe in 'Manusmriti' have decided to construct detention centres. People who believe in Ambedkar, Phule, Bhagath Singh and the Constitution of our country should decide the number of Bilal Baghs to be formed. We have to make 'Ghar Wapsi' of these people in the electoral politics. For this to become a reality all must work with determination for the next 30 to 40 years," he said.