EXCLUSIVE: Interview with M.K.StalinTamil Nadu Chief Minister “There is no compromise on secularism”. On secularism under siege, federal resistance, and the fight for the idea of India as envisaged by Periyar and Ambedkar
1. You keep talking about protecting the lofty ideals of secularism, equality and rationality. But do you think that today all these ideals are being pushed to the margins in India ?
Thanthai Periyar once said, “I don’t care whether anyone listens to what I say or not. What matters is whether I say it or not.” He would attend the conferences organised by the caste-based associations and speak fearlessly against the very idea of caste. That is the spirit we must carry forward. Today, when secularism, equality, rationalism, and social justice are being pushed to the margins, it becomes even more important for us to speak up. We must continue to champion these ideals, not just when it’s convenient, but precisely when they are under threat. We must place our trust in the people even if change isn’t immediately visible. Transformation doesn’t happen overnight. It’s not an act of magic; it’s a continuous process. Just as India achieved independence after two hundred years of struggle, we too must persist in our efforts to bring about social change. The seeds we sow today will surely bear fruit tomorrow. That is our duty to speak, to act, and to never give up on the vision of an egalitarian, rational, and inclusive India. 2. As someone who grew up as a Muslim and has written critically about Muslims, Christians, Dalits and those in power, I feel marginalized by majoritarian nationalist ideologies. Do you think there is still a place for minority voices and dissent in India?... Continue reading this post for free in the Substack app
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