In the realm of the Indian Defence Forces, one seasoned veteran officer reflects on the conspicuous absence of the term ‘secular’ yet observes a remarkable semblance of true secularism in the military’s ethos. The Army, akin to an island of sanity, operates amidst a sea of religious diversity.
Within the Army’s ranks, officers align with the religion of their troops, fostering unity in diversity. Congregations for various faiths are a norm, with shared premises for Mandirs, Masjids, Gurudwaras, and Churches popularly known as Sarav Dharam Sathal, सरव धरम स्थल (A place for all faiths). The army embodies two sacred tenets: the oneness of God and the pursuit of victory in operations, principles held so dearly that questioning them is inconceivable.
Instances abound where the intermingling of religious practices showcases the army’s true secular spirit. A battalion guarding the Amarnath Yatra (Lord Shiva’s cave) extends best wishes for Operation Amarnath, blurring the lines between spiritual and operational realms. In a heartening episode, a Muslim Maulavi ji leads Janamashtmi prayers ( Birthday of Lord Krishna), seamlessly filling in for a Panditji on compassionate leave.
There has been a case where a Muslim Officer commanded a Garhwal Rifles Battalion (consisting of Hindu troops) and attended all their religion functions being held in the unit Mandir. This officer later became a three star general in the Indian Army.
Somewhere on the Line of Control, a Muslim company ( having Hindu company commander, second in command and some Hindu support staff) replaced a Dogra battalion establishes a Masjid for prayers, and when the earlier established Mandir remains closed, a Muslim soldier urges its reopening for important functions emphasising the collective need to worship their respective religion.
Remarkably, along the border with Pakistan, troops abstain from alcohol and non-vegetarian food on Thursdays, recognizing the significance of Peer day for Muslims.
The tolerance and respect for each others religious affiliation is the true hallmark of Indian Defence Forces and has been there since ages.
Then there is a touching anecdote of two Sikh soldiers discussing Christmas, calling it a Gurpurab (a term for Sikh Guru’s celebrations) of Christians epitomising the army’s genuine embrace of diversity. This nuanced tapestry of experiences paints a vivid picture of true secularism within the Indian Army, where actions speak louder than words, fostering a spirit of unity amidst religious diversity.
( Based on real life experiences of many Army officers and own observations)
Guchi.
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