15

Aug

Freedom: Beyond Political Independence

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Column: Friday Fuss

Freedom: Beyond Political Independence

By Prof Pradeep Mathur

Freedom is a concept far deeper than merely the end of foreign domination. True freedom exists in many dimensions—political, economic, intellectual, and ultimately, spiritual. In our ancient scriptures, the highest form of freedom is described as moksha, or salvation—a liberation of the soul from all bondage. While that is a lofty ideal, even in our worldly life, we must recognize that political freedom alone does not signify complete liberation.

India gained its political independence from British colonial rule on August 15, 1947. This historic moment marked the end of nearly two centuries of foreign control and exploitation. With immense sacrifice and leadership, our freedom fighters secured for us the right to govern ourselves. Later, with the adoption of our Constitution on January 26, 1950, and the first general elections held in 1951–52, we became a sovereign, secular, and democratic republic. These milestones were monumental, and we rightly celebrate them.

However, as we observe Amrit Kaal, the diamond jubilee of our independence, we must pause and reflect: Are we truly free? Regretfully, the honest answer remains elusive and, in many aspects, negative.

Economic Inequality: A Chain Yet Unbroken

India has made remarkable economic progress over the last few decades. As of 2024, we are the fifth-largest economy in the world in terms of nominal GDP, surpassing even the United Kingdom. Our GDP stands at over $3.7 trillion, and we are a recognized global player in sectors such as information technology, pharmaceuticals, and space exploration.

Yet, this economic prosperity remains unevenly distributed. According to an Oxfam report from 2023, the top 1% of India’s population owns over 40.5% of the country’s total wealth, while the bottom 50% holds just around 3%. This glaring disparity reflects a deeper issue: for a significant portion of our citizens, particularly in rural areas and marginalized communities, daily life continues to be a struggle for survival, dignity, and basic necessities.

Government schemes and subsidies—often referred to as freebies—do offer temporary relief, but they are not long-term solutions. What the underprivileged masses truly need is empowerment—access to quality education, skill development, employment opportunities, healthcare, and ownership of productive assets. Only when they become active participants in the national economy can we claim to have achieved economic freedom.

Mental Freedom: The Next Frontier

In recent years, the call for mental freedom has grown louder. This kind of freedom is often more subtle and harder to detect, but its absence is just as debilitating. A truly free society must be one where individuals can think independently—free from prejudices, superstitions, rigid ideologies, and misinformation.

Unfortunately, we continue to witness increasing polarization in public discourse, often fuelled by divisive narratives, historical grudges, and identity politics. Casteism, communalism, and gender discrimination still persist in various forms. Social media, which should be a platform for informed debate, often becomes a battleground for hate and misinformation. This mental bondage restricts our collective potential and hampers national progress.

A Call for Inner Liberation

As we celebrate another Independence Day, let us resolve to work not only for external prosperity but also for internal liberation. Let us aim to build a society where freedom is not confined to political rights but extends to the economic upliftment of every individual and the mental awakening of every citizen.

India is a country with immense potential. But to become a true Vishwa Guru (world leader), we must free ourselves from the chains that still bind us—inequality, ignorance, intolerance, and fear.

In fact the crying need of the hour is to initiate a nationwide movement to liberate the Indian mind. This is a mission that starts with each one of us. Only then can we fulfil the dream of those who gave us political freedom—and move towards a fuller, richer, and more meaningful independence.

Veteran journalist and media guru, Prof Pradeep  Mathur is editor-in-chief of  Media Map News Network and Chairperson of the MBKM Foundation, a not-for-profit organization for voluntary social work.

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