Dr S. Saraswathi
Satirical cartoons on Prophet Muhammad which were originally published in 2015 and now republished in French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo have become a strong provocation for a series of protests by Islamic groups across countries and continents. The original cartoons published in 2015 also faced attacks by Islamic extremists in which 15 persons were killed. A teacher, who used these cartoons in a classroom for teaching freedom of speech in a suburban school in Paris about two weeks ago, was beheaded by a radical Islamist. Depiction of the Prophet in the cartoons is considered ‘blasphemous’– an expression coming out of strong religious faith.
Notre Dame church in Nice in France is once again in the news in this connection for a knife attack on people inside killing three and injuring many very badly following which security has been beefed up by the French government to protect key sites such as places of worship and schools. A knife attack wounding a guard at the French consulate in the city of Jeddah was reported.
In the background is French President Immanuel Macron’s attempt to reform Islamic practices in his country and his description of Islam as a ‘religion in crisis.’ It is reported that France’s Interior Minister has said that the country is ‘engaged in a war against Islamist ideology’ and ‘more militant attacks are likely’ in France.
The 21st century is facing the threat of a religious war. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has emerged as a leading defender of Islamic religion in this dispute. In retaliation to the remarks on Islam, he asked his compatriots to stop buying French goods. Even the state of mental health of Macron was questioned which prompted France to recall its ambassador in Turkey.
Political and religious leaders of Islamic countries are outraged at Macron’s criticism while European countries rally around France. Radical groups in Pakistan and Bangladesh are reported to be attacking minority religious groups in their countries. Indeed, religious clashes are spreading as a global development.
Back at home, a ban on Manusmriti – a legendary law book that is not in force anywhere today – is demanded by VCK leader, Tirumavalavan in Tamil Nadu, which has led to clashes between the cadres of VCK and BJP. A noteworthy new entrant to the BJP, Khushbu, who led a protest march, was detained and released. The BJP objected to the interpretation given by VCK of the portion in the ancient text on Dharmashastra pertaining to women. Protests were carried out in many places by both groups though, in reality, the number of people who have some knowledge of Manusmriti may be counted on fingers.
Outrageous unfriendly exchanges over trivial matters that started in France and in Tamil Nadu have no social-economic or religious implications, but enough to formation of warring groups on the basis of religion. While several EU partners, who are facing trouble from terrorist groups offer support to France, which has the largest Muslim population among European countries, Turkey is receiving support from several Islamic countries.
There is no national unity in India, as on earlier controversies, on taking a stand on the Macron issue. There are pro and anti groups for any issue which are not concerned about the merits of a case, but cling to their antagonistic positions. Needless to mention, the division has political base – its own or of its alliance – and therefore, quick to pick up real and imaginary issues to remain alive and active. If the issue has some relation to Islam or Muslims, there are groups in India not to lose the chance to disturb peace and order in India. Posters of Macron appeared in Mumbai and protesters were seen striking it with slippers. Similar protests were held in some cities in MP, Punjab, and UP. The gesture is supposed to draw audience and help build public support. Prime Minister Modi has issued a statement condemning terrorist attacks in France and confirmed India’s support to fight terrorism – a neutral stand that has no religious bias.
The uproar over Manusmriti is a reminder that in state politics in Tamil Nadu, Periyar EVR’s thoughts are still relevant and can be recalled whenever useful. It is a political necessity for some parties though there is no need to be harping on Manavadharmashastra and Varnashrama which have no followers in the present world. They have no legal validity and socially too not practised. Hindu law has undergone several reforms without any social protest and traditional beliefs and practices are automatically adjusting to modern thinking and purposes. Those who are quick to change progress faster than those who lag behind. What is required is universal education. No amount of verbal attack on ancient legends, deities, Brahmanism or upper castes of old order can achieve what education and educational atmosphere can.
Attacking old Dharmashastras seems to be sheer waste of time and energy. Protesters can more fruitfully turn attention to find out the factors and forces behind suppression of dalits or women. A ban on Manusmriti will not eradicate outmoded beliefs and practices if they are ingrained in our culture and values. These have to be confronted directly by implementing equalitarian laws and regulations we have adopted.
Religion, religious texts, and religious symbols, places of worship and even followers of particular religions are increasingly becoming targets for clashes because religion is a powerful stimulator of action for offence and defence. If this has to change, a global movement towards a positive approach of promoting democratic freedom and human rights instead of a negative one of destruction is needed. Religion needs respect and civil society must assert its rights. To go back to the era of religious wars or clashes is a blot on human civilization.
The writer is former Director, ICSSR, New Delhi. INFA