POLITICS & RELIGION It is an often repeated cliche much misunderstood and misinterpreted. Religion and politics should not influence one another. Is it possible? Theoretically yes, but practically difficult as line between the two is very thin Being a secular country, state should not be controlled by religion. Are politicians atheist ? may be with rare exception. Nehru did not profess any religion. Mahatma Gandhi seemed to have influenced by religion and was open about it. Politicians cannot be expected to be detached from their personal beliefs, but they should not and cannot thrust it on others, even indirectly making it a bone of contention. Politicians before elections pay obeisance to their deities, go on pilgrimages, conduct prayer services, pay visits to religious heads, make donations and seek blessings .Often they patronize religious places of worships of other beliefs, just to throw dust in the eyes others. During their tenure in office .they frequently visit religious places to placard believers , even their personal commitment is well known, but public demonstrations have some effects. After elections and waiting for results most of the candidates go on religious pilgrimages to relax and seek blessings for hopeful results Religious leaders are seen hobnobbing with political leaders and are seen in their company ostensibly to further the interest of their folks,. The yearly conclaves with politicians must be seen in this respect
When placements are concerned they naturally favor and are inclined towards their own faith .It is difficult to prove such facts. They will also extend favour in Govt, and other social schemes. Some how they have to return the favour . Elections are invariably fought and won on religious and caste considerations and there is no denying the fact. That tickets are issued with this loaded factor It is said that placements of Muslims in Govt service are highly discriminatory and so also other minorities in matter of service and promotions .With BJP in power this wedge is further widened. On the face of it , it appears that religion does not interfere in our lives, but it dominates every aspect of our living ,even in the sacred precincts of educational instructions The tendency to be favorably disposed towards our kind is instinctive The myth that religion does not dominate politics subtly is a farce Nelson Lopes Chinchinim
