The Rise of Superstition in BJP's Regime: Addressing a Growing Threat

The Surging Market of Superstition

India, a land of diverse cultures and beliefs, has always had its share of superstitions. However, recent years, especially under the BJP government, have witnessed a significant surge in these irrational practices. This trend raises a critical question: Is superstition becoming a lethal threat to our society?

What is Superstition and Why is it Dangerous?

Superstition refers to irrational beliefs or practices resulting from ignorance, fear of the unknown, trust in magic or chance, or a false conception of causation. These beliefs can lead to harmful consequences, including violence and discrimination. In recent incidents, such as the one in Hyderabad where a child was sacrificed, the danger of superstition is evident. A man, under the influence of a tantric, believed that sacrificing the child during a lunar eclipse would cure his wife's illness. This tragic event highlights the lethal potential of superstitious beliefs.

Why Superstition Thrives Under BJP's Rule

1. Distraction from Core Issues: The BJP government has been criticized for using superstition to divert attention from critical issues like inflation, unemployment, poverty, and malnutrition. By promoting superstitious practices, they shift the public's focus away from these pressing concerns.

2. Cultural and Religious Manipulation: The BJP's emphasis on Hindu traditions and rituals often blurs the line between faith and superstition. This cultural manipulation fosters an environment where superstitious beliefs can thrive.

3. Lack of Rational Discourse: The government's stance often discourages rational discourse, making it difficult to challenge and debunk superstitions. This environment perpetuates ignorance and fear, allowing superstition to flourish.

Impact of Superstition on Education and Rationality

Superstition does not discriminate; it affects even the educated and rational individuals. For instance, Farzana, an MBA graduate fluent in English, chose to live in a shrine in Hyderabad to avoid heart attacks she believed were caused by her family’s black magic. This case exemplifies how deeply ingrained superstitions can influence people's lives, regardless of their educational background.

The Role of Tantrics and Superstition Markets

The rise of tantrics and other so-called spiritual healers is another alarming trend. These individuals exploit vulnerable people for financial gain, as seen in the case of Deepika, who was taken to a tantric by her mother to prevent her marriage to a man of her choice. Such practices not only exploit individuals financially but also perpetuate harmful beliefs.

Statistics Highlighting the Gravity of the Issue

According to the National Crime Records Bureau, from 2000 to 2012, 350 people were killed in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana on suspicions of practicing black magic. In just the past three years, Telangana alone recorded 39 such cases. These statistics underscore the severity of the superstition problem in India.

Why Superstition Persists: Cultural and Social Factors

1. Historical Roots: Superstition has deep historical roots in India, often intertwined with religious and cultural practices. This historical context makes it challenging to eradicate these beliefs completely.

2. Social Influence: Social pressure and influence play a significant role in perpetuating superstitions. People often adhere to these beliefs to conform to societal norms or out of fear of ostracism.

3. Economic Exploitation: Superstition often serves as a tool for economic exploitation. Spiritual healers and tantrics capitalize on people's fears and vulnerabilities, making significant profits from their services.

Solutions and Steps Forward

1. Promoting Scientific Temper: Educating children and the general public about scientific reasoning and critical thinking is crucial. Schools should emphasize rational thinking to prevent the next generation from falling into the trap of superstitions.

2. Legislation and Enforcement: Strict laws against practices that exploit superstition should be enacted and enforced. The fight led by activists like Dr. Dabholkar for anti-superstition bills needs to be supported and implemented effectively.

3. Public Awareness Campaigns: Awareness campaigns highlighting the dangers of superstitions can play a vital role in changing public perception. These campaigns should focus on debunking myths and promoting rational thinking.

4. Community Engagement: Engaging community leaders and influencers to speak out against superstitions can help shift public opinion. Their support can lend credibility to the anti-superstition movement.

Conclusion: A Call to Rationality

Superstition, under the guise of tradition, poses a significant threat to rational thinking and social progress. As we continue to advance in science and technology, it is crucial to address and mitigate the influence of superstitious beliefs. The rise of superstition under the BJP regime highlights the need for a concerted effort to promote rational thinking and scientific temper across all sections of society. Only through education, awareness, and strict legislation can we hope to eradicate the harmful impact of superstition on our lives.