The majority of the nation’s populace continues to support religious pluralism.
Hash#ag News Bureau 18 April 2024
A recent survey conducted by CSDS-Lokniti ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in 2024 has unveiled a significant endorsement for religious pluralism among the majority of the Indian populace.
As reported by The Hindu, the survey findings suggest a widespread inclination among respondents towards the belief that India does not exclusively belong to Hindus but equally accommodates all religions. The report underscores India’s longstanding tradition as a multi-religious society where various faiths have coexisted and contributed to the cultural landscape despite historical and political challenges.
However, amidst certain socio-political developments and calls for the transformation of India into a ‘Hindu Rashtra,’ concerns have emerged regarding the preservation of religious tolerance and the secular fabric of Indian society. In this context, the pre-election survey by CSDS-Lokniti serves to dispel doubts surrounding these issues.
According to the survey results, an overwhelming 79 percent of respondents expressed support for the notion that India is a land that embraces all religions equally, not just Hinduism. This consensus underscores the public’s desire for India to remain a nation where individuals of diverse faiths can freely practice their beliefs, reaffirming the enduring importance of religious pluralism as a cornerstone of societal harmony.
The survey also revealed that a mere 11 percent of respondents agreed with the idea that India exclusively belongs to Hindus, while 10 percent abstained from offering an opinion. Notably, the commitment to religious pluralism extends beyond religious minorities, with nearly eight out of every ten Hindus endorsing the concept.
Furthermore, the survey highlighted generational differences in attitudes towards religious pluralism, with 81 percent of youth affirming their belief in India’s inclusive identity compared to 73 percent of elders. Additionally, educational attainment emerged as a significant factor, with 83 percent of highly educated individuals expressing support for equal status for all religions, in contrast to 72 percent of those with lower levels of education.
Contrary to common perceptions associating religious tensions with urban areas, the survey data indicated a higher level of support for religious pluralism and tolerance among urban residents compared to their rural counterparts. This suggests a nuanced understanding of societal dynamics regarding religion and underscores the importance of promoting religious harmony across all segments of society.
