How Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Became a Referendum on Indian Constitution – II

Link for full report:  https://lokmarg.com/how-lok-sabha-elections-2024-became-a-referendum-on-indian-constitution-ii/

One of the initial responses to this ‘cultural’ crisis could be witnessed in Maharashtra but it was limited to Dalits and Pasmanda. In North India, a novel initiative was undertaken by Dr Lenin Raghuvanshi, a human rights activist of Varanasi, when he organised the Benares Convention in 2014 just after Modi came to power. This event was almost ignored by the civil society of Delhi. The well-articulated ideological context and background of the Benares Convention can be read here. He continued with the idea of blending the question of culture and constitution with his second initiative Neo-Dalit Convention organised just before general elections 2019. This convention saw the participation of a few prominent faces like Gujarat MLA Jignesh Mewani and senior journalist Urmilesh. Still, the question of culture remained an outcast in the civil society’s fraternal deliberations on Constitution.

The Benaras Convention 2014

Dr Lenin says, “We are dealing with corporate as well as communal fascism. The communal issue is not only inter-religious, it is intra-religious too. When communitarianism imagines its identity vis-à-vis the opposition of an ‘Other’, it immediately becomes communal. Therefore secularism also entails working on caste, class and patriarchal divisions within a community”.

This question of intra-religious secular practice was raised prominently in a couple of meetings organised by Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind in the run-up to General Elections 2024. With the events unfolding, this understanding has gradually seeped down the social activism circles recently. The now widespread constitutional value fellowships have helped a lot in emphasising the political significance of intra-religious communitarian work on caste, class and patriarchy. 

The coming together of Culture, Community and Constitution is working, as we have witnessed in these elections. In Uttar Pradesh, the non-Yadav OBC and the non-Jatav SC block co-opted by the BJP in the last few years is now breaking away. This is the start of a new social formation. This, coupled with the disillusionment of the RSS cadre has enraged the BJP.

Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi Receives Special Mention in Human Rights Prize of the French Republic 2018

 

Citation at https://www.cncdh.fr/edition-2018-du-prix-des-droits-de-lhomme

Silver medal

Celebrating a Champion for Dalit Rights in India

Lenin Raghuvanshi at The Global Centre for Pluralism,Canada

We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi has been awarded a special mention in the Human Rights Prize of the French Republic 2018, under the prestigious banner of “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity.” This recognition by the Commission nationale consultative des droits de l’homme (CNCDH) highlights Lenin’s relentless dedication to advocating for the rights of Dalits and other marginalized communities in India.Citation describes, “Lenin Raghuvanshi is an activist for the rights of Dalits in India. He is one of the founding members of the People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), which works for the development of marginalized sections of society. Deeply convinced of the necessity to eliminate all discrimination based on the caste system, he created a new non-violent social movement to end caste-based discrimination and the resulting forced labor, which affects marginalized communities, particularly Dalits and Adivasis. He is regularly threatened with death and prosecuted by local authorities. The jury wished to encourage Lenin Raghuvanshi’s original and non-violent approach to action.”

Lenin Raghuvanshi’s Inspiring Work

Lenin Raghuvanshi is a tireless activist for the rights of Dalits. As a founding member of the People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), Lenin has been instrumental in advancing the development and protection of marginalized sections of society. His commitment to eliminating caste-based discrimination has led him to create a powerful non-violent social movement aimed at ending the systemic injustice and forced labor affecting Dalits and Adivasis.

The CNCDH, a French governmental organization established in 1947, recognized Lenin’s original and non-violent approach to human rights advocacy. The CNCDH monitors human rights in France, advises the government, and proposes legislation. It includes representatives from various sectors, ensuring a comprehensive approach to human rights issues.

A Journey of Recognition and Challenges:A Long-Awaited Recognition

Diploma

Lenin received the special mention award’s medal and diploma on May 27, 2024. Upon receiving the honor, he expressed his gratitude: “This recognition honors all human rights defenders working in South Asia. I am deeply grateful to Shirin Shabana Khan for her extraordinary efforts and remarkable work that led to this award. My heartfelt thanks go to my life partner, Shruti Nagvanshi, and my mentor, Dr. Mohanlal Panda. Congratulations to all associates of PVCHR.”

Despite the award being announced in 2018, Lenin faced delays in receiving his recognition. He speculated that his past criticisms of European support for Hindu nationalist ideologies might have influenced the delay. However, his dedication to advocating for human rights remained unwavering.

Looking Forward with Hope and Determination

Lenin’s recent writings reflect his enduring passion and the global impact of his work. He recalls meetings with significant figures like the late French President Jacques Chirac and author Dominique Lapierre, which underscore the international resonance of his mission.

In a poignant blog post from July 2023, Lenin detailed the emotional journey of receiving the CNCDH’s special mention and the complexities surrounding his delayed recognition. Despite the challenges, he remains committed to his cause and hopeful for future recognition and justice.

Continuing the Fight for Justice

Source: https://www.cncdh.fr/actualite/palmares-du-prix-des-droits-de-lhomme-2018

Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi’s story is a powerful testament to resilience and determination in the face of systemic injustice. His work with PVCHR and his advocacy for Dalit rights embody the spirit of non-violent resistance and the pursuit of equality. The special mention from the CNCDH not only honors his past efforts but also encourages continued action against caste-based discrimination.

Celebrating the Spirit of Kashi: Preserving Diversity and Pluralism in Varanasi

It is an honor to celebrate the diversity and inclusive culture of Kashi. I believe the delay is a conspiracy against the spirit of Kashi. “We are dealing with corporate as well as communal fascism. The communal issue is not only inter-religious but intra-religious too. When communitarianism imagines its identity vis-à-vis the opposition of an ‘Other,’ it immediately becomes communal. Therefore, secularism also entails working on caste, class, and patriarchal divisions within a community.”

Varanasi’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its music, literature, and social fabric. The city has produced Bharat Ratna awardees like Shehnai maestro Ustad Bismillah Khan and sitar virtuoso Pt. Ravi Shankar. It has also been a hub for writers like Munshi Premchand and philosophers like Bhagwan Das, who have contributed significantly to India’s intellectual and cultural discourse.

The need to preserve Varanasi’s pluralistic and inclusive ethos is crucial. The proposal to declare Varanasi a Living Heritage City aims to conserve its ancient charm while promoting sustainable livelihoods for its artisans. It is essential to teach younger generations the values of pluralism and reconciliation to counter sectarianism and foster a harmonious society. As Varanasi continues to be a beacon of India’s civilizational ethos, it reminds us that diversity and pluralism are our greatest strengths. By protecting and promoting these values, we can ensure a future where all communities coexist peacefully and prosper together.

My Journey with the Global March Against Child Labour

 

My journey with the Global March Against Child Labour has been one of profound learning, impactful advocacy, and unwavering commitment to children’s rights. The experiences and interactions, from Southeast Asia to Europe, have reinforced the importance of a global, collective effort to eradicate child labor. As we continue to strive for these goals, I remain hopeful for a future where every child can enjoy their right to education, freedom, and dignity. Read about our meeting with President of France too.

#GlobalMarch #ChildLabour #HumanRights #SustainableDevelopment #EducationForAll #EndChildLabour #Advocacy #GlobalHealth #Dignity #EliminateExploitation

Link: https://medium.com/@lenin_75290/my-journey-with-the-global-march-against-child-labour-c80987d909b9

Unveiling the Untold Story: Lenin Raghuvanshi’s Decade of Activism

 As Raghuvanshi’s journey unfolds, it serves as a testament to the enduring struggle for justice and the profound impact of grassroots activism. His unwavering resolve in the face of adversity continues to inspire and galvanize efforts for positive social change.

Link: https://medium.com/@shruti_25784/unveiling-the-untold-story-lenin-raghuvanshis-decade-of-activism-e99f88b304ec

Deceitful Shadows

 In the shadowed corners where trust once lay,

Lurk fraud and friends who led me astray.

With smiles that gleamed and words so sweet,

They walked beside me on deceitful feet.

Promises made in the light of day,

Turned to whispers, lies, and dismay.

Gold they sought in the guise of care,

Left my heart and pockets bare.

Cheater friends with their cunning guise,

Wove their tales with practiced lies.

Once I saw them as kind and true,

Now their masks are cracked, askew.

Lessons learned through the sting of deceit,

Have made my wisdom complete.

For in the garden where trust is sown,

Only the honest are truly known.

So beware the friend with a hollow grin,

Who sees your kindness as a way to win.

In the end, integrity prevails,

And truth will lift its righteous sails.

Ripples of Change: A Symphony for Bundelkhand's Waters

 In Bundelkhand, where waters scarce do flow, 

Stands a champion, known where'er we go. 

Mr. Sanjay Singh, the Waterman bold, 

In drought-ridden lands, his tale is told.

With fervent zeal and unwavering might, 

He fights for rivers, a beacon of light. 

In arid plains, where hope runs dry, 

He brings forth streams to touch the sky.

Through scorching sun and barren land, 

He labors hard, with unwavering hand. 

His heart beats strong for rivers' plight, 

To quench the thirst, to set things right.

With wisdom deep as the river's flow, 

He guides his people, to make them know, 

That water's life, a precious gem, 

In Mr. Sanjay Singh, we find our stem.

So here's to him, the Waterman true, 

In Bundelkhand, where skies are blue. 

May his efforts bloom like flowers grand, 

And rivers flow through his steadfast hand.

In Bundelkhand's arid lands, where rivers sigh, 

Stands Sanjay Singh, beneath the azure sky. 

A guardian true, he calls out to the masses, 

To heed the rivers' whispers, as time passes.

In Khajuraho's embrace, minds converge, 

To script a tale of hope, as rivers surge. 

Singh's clarion call, a new river's hymn, 

Echoes of revival, where hope's light dims.

From the Ganges to Betwa, their journey we trace, 

As small rivers dance, in a timeless embrace. 

Singh's vision, a symphony of unity, 

Guiding hands joined, in purposeful community.

Padma Shri Pandey, with wisdom profound, 

In fields and forests, solutions are found. 

Lakshman Singh's plea, for structures to defend, 

In nature's embrace, our paths gently blend.

Ramesh Bhai's voice, from Uttarakhand's heart, 

Where flames rage fierce, we seek a fresh start. 

With Raksha Sutra's shield, the forests we'll keep, 

In nature's embrace, eternal promises we'll reap.

Jal Purush Singh, his proposal clear, 

A river's journey, we all hold dear. 

From June's embrace, let the waters flow free, 

As we tread softly, in nature's grand spree.

In this symphony of change, each note plays its part, 

A chorus of hope, from every heart. 

For in safeguarding waters, we find our true worth, 

In unity's embrace, we'll revive the Earth.

Rabindranath Tagore: The Polymath of Bengal Renaissance

Lenin Raghuvanshi's Editorial in Sanmarg:

Renowned polymath Rabindranath Tagore, often hailed as the Bard of Bengal, left an indelible mark on literature, music, and art during the Bengal Renaissance. His contributions spanned poetry, prose, drama, music, and painting, reshaping the cultural landscape of India in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Tagore's literary masterpiece, Gitanjali, not only garnered him the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913 but also marked a historic first for non-Europeans in the literary realm.

Born into a Brahmin family in Calcutta, Tagore displayed remarkable literary prowess from a young age. His early works, published under the pseudonym Bhānusiṃha, were hailed as classics, setting the stage for his prolific career. Tagore's literary journey was intertwined with his deep-rooted humanism and internationalist outlook, as he fervently advocated for independence from British rule and criticized nationalist ideologies.

Tagore's artistic vision transcended conventional boundaries, as he modernized Bengali art by embracing contextual modernism and rejecting rigid classical forms. His literary repertoire, including iconic works like Gitanjali, Gora, and Ghare-Baire, resonated not only in India but also across borders, with compositions like "Jana Gana Mana" and "Amar Shonar Bangla" becoming national anthems for India and Bangladesh, respectively.

Despite familial tragedies and personal struggles, Tagore's creative spirit remained undaunted. His prolific output encompassed poetry, novels, songs, and essays, each reflecting his profound lyricism, naturalism, and philosophical depth. Tagore's enduring legacy extends beyond his literary achievements to the establishment of Visva-Bharati University, a testament to his commitment to holistic education and cultural enrichment.

In commemorating Rabindranath Tagore, we honor not only a literary giant but also a visionary whose artistic genius continues to inspire generations worldwide.

 

Shruti wrote about the importance of work in the context of spirituality.

 

Raghuvanshi wrote on religion

 

shruti wrote on religion