Hinduism is on the rise in India after Narendra Modi came to power. In line with this, recently an organization petitioned the Delhi High Court for the formation of a board to protect the rights and customs of Hindus. This application was rejected by the court on Wednesday. This information is known from the report of Indian media Business Standard.
The request for formation of 'Sanatan Dharma Raksha Board' was made by 'Sanatan Hindu Seva Sangh Trust' as a public interest case. The petition claims that the Government of India has constituted different boards or organizations for the followers of different religions. However, there is no specific board or government agency to protect the rights and customs of the followers of Sanatan Dharma or Hinduism.
Advocate Ashok Kumar filed the petition on behalf of the organisation. When it was raised in the bench, Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela refused to hear it. The court said, 'The court cannot interfere in the policy matters of the government.'
The petitioner alleged that the followers of other sects were making various attacks against Sanatan Dharma. For example, attempts to convert the followers of Sanatan Dharma to another religion, which is against the customs and beliefs of this religion.
The petitioner further stated that majority of the people of the country follow Sanatan/Hindu religion. They are entitled to protection and other benefits. But this right is not guaranteed by the government.
The petitioner also mentioned that many temples in the country are under the control of Central and State Governments and funds are collected from there. Yet, a national level organization was not formed to protect Sanatan/Hinduism.
However, the High Court said, they cannot interfere in matters of policy. It is a matter for the government to decide. Such a board can be constituted only after the law is passed by introducing a bill in Parliament. Besides, India is a secular state, which is clearly mentioned in the constitution. A secular state cannot have a specific board to give special privileges or benefits to people of any religion.
