Nor Teachers or Students are allowed to wear Rudraksha, red thread on wrist, kanthi or tilak under the Lieu of fake secularism.
India is a secular country that guarantees the right to freedom of religion to all its citizens under Articles 25 to 28 of the Constitution1. This means that every person has the right to freely profess, practice, and propagate any religion of their choice, subject to public order, morality, and health. It also means that every religious group has the right to manage its own affairs and institutions, and that no one can be compelled to pay taxes or attend religious instruction or worship against their will.
However, these constitutional rights are being violated by some renowned ICSE schools of Gujarat, which have imposed a ban on students and teachers from carrying any religious symbols, including rakhi, under the pretext of discipline. Rakhi is a sacred thread that symbolizes the bond of love and protection between siblings, especially during the festival of Raksha Bandhan. It is also worn by many Hindus as a mark of devotion to their deities or gurus.
The ban on religious symbols in these schools is not only arbitrary and discriminatory, but also unconstitutional and illegal. It goes against the spirit of secularism and pluralism that India stands for. It infringes on the fundamental right to freedom of conscience and expression of one’s faith. It also violates the right to education, which includes the right to receive education in an environment that respects one’s cultural identity and values.
The ban on religious symbols in these schools is also counterproductive and harmful for the students’ development and well-being. It deprives them of their sense of belonging and identity, which are essential for their self-esteem and confidence. It also exposes them to discrimination and harassment from their peers and authorities, which can affect their academic performance and mental health. Moreover, it prevents them from learning about the diversity and richness of India’s religious traditions, which can foster tolerance and harmony in society.
Therefore, we urge the authorities and the management of these schools to revoke this unjust and irrational ban immediately and respect the religious freedom and rights of their students and teachers. We also appeal to the parents and the public to raise their voice against this violation and support the cause of religious liberty in India. We believe that India’s strength lies in its unity in diversity, and that no one should be denied their right to practice their faith peacefully and proudly in this great nation.
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