Mentor’s Comment:

Similar Question has been asked in 2018 mains. ‘Throw light on the significance of the thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi in the present times.’

This question holds significance in the context of the though evolution by our freedom fighters.

Introduction should discuss the features of Bhagat Singh and his contributions.

Further, mention about how his thought get influenced. Like books on Marxism, Communism, revolutionary articles etc.

Next, mention the importance of his thought in present times. Secularism, Scientific temperament, Inclusive nationalism, and more importantly involving youth power in politics. Bring examples to support your points.

Conclude based on the points of main parts.

Model Answers:

Bhagat Singh, an iconic revolutionary, thinker voracious reader and one of the well read of political

leaders at that time, was a giant of an intellectual. Bhagat Singh, was martyred on March 23, 1931. He

evokes unbounded respect and emotion all over India. Most of us, of course, revere him as a

nationalist but its a true but incomplete description.

Bhagat Singh:

At tender age he realised the larger goals of life rather than being circumscribed to accomplishing personal goals. He transformed the revolution ‘terrorism’ movement to a socialist one. He was a great innovator in two areas of politics – (a) raised the serious issues and threats of communalism and (b) raised the conscience of people in freeing them from mental bondage of religion and superstition.

His deep patriotism, courage and determination, and sense of sacrifice stirred the Indian people and helped spread nationals consciousness in the northern land.

Significance of the thoughts of Bhagat Singh in the present times

Secularism:

• Bhagat Singh was consciously secular. Today’s India is marred with violence often on “religious” grounds and more often misused by political opportunists. According to him India would become truly and fully independent when “exploitation of man by man” on religious lines ends. This is stark in today’s scenario and therefore makes us to ponder upon it with renewed vigor.
• Identity based politics, communalism and narrow secretarial interest in present times needs his secular ethos.

Scientific Temperament

• More than any other nationalist of his times, Bhagat Singh stressed the importance of being rational. He believed in ideological firmness and said, ‘Religion has no connection with the National Movement.’ He encouraged critical thinking and criticism.
• This is highly essential not just for the growth of India but also to uphold the democratic ideals in today’s scenario. Its highly important when we see rationalist thinkers and people with critical awareness being murdered for their ideologies and idea of rational dissent being suppressed by fringe elements in the society.
• Moreover this also sends a message that education shouldn’t be neglected and the recent government’s budget cut in the educational sector needs rectification.

 

Inclusive Nationalism

• It is distressing to see that today nationalism is being touted in the garb of religion and caste. This has resulted in fragmentation of society and in communal riots. Instead of insisting on religious instructions to our children, it would be better if we instruct them in the values of love and peaceful co existence in the nation, teached by Bhagat Singh. He advocated for ‘inclusive nationalism’ i.e he did not only want freedom from British but wanted India to free poverty, inequity, inequality etc.
• India still faces these problem today. Nearly 29% are BPL with massive inequality and inequity. Thus his ideology of inclusive nationalism even holds good today.
• His patriotism and love for the country beyond anything would instill a feeling of pride and also discourage people who may get deflected towards joining anti-state elements, including ISIS.

Politics and Youth:

• The foremost lesson learned from Bhagat Singh’s independence efforts is that if the present day generation feels that India has deficiencies and disparity, then it is our prerogative to raise voice against the same. Being silent to injustice is encouraging the same.
• Even a minuscule effort has consequence. Youth needs to be active factors of improvement rather than dormant observers. Some contemporary examples which reflect this idea are candle light march by students during Nirbhaya and Kathua rape case and the protests for demanding Jan Lokpal etc. In the age of misguided ideology; his idea of reason and rationality is sorely missed in university campuses marred by suppression of idea and voices.

Without undermining the achievements of our republic over the last seven decades, it can be observed that socio-political and economic disparities continue and have increased to a great extent. Bhagat Singh’s vision of social and political justice continues to be relevant and his ideals should inspire us to take the struggle forward. Mahatma Gandhi’s path of non violence coupled with Bhagat Singh’s patriotic passion and vocal efforts, if adopted by the nation even in a minuscule level, can help India reach glorious heights.