Why Sanatan-Hindu cannot avoid politics

It’s election season in both the USA and India, and these two democracies seem to be moving forward with somewhat reluctant participation from their citizens. While there are many valid reasons for this hesitation, choosing not to exercise the most powerful right—the right to vote—is ultimately harmful, both to individuals and to the democratic systems of their respective nations.

Many citizens distance themselves from politics altogether, often to avoid being associated with any particular side. However, the idea of being "out of politics" is more complex than it seems. In reality, even those who actively avoid political involvement are still affected by political decisions. Politics shapes almost every aspect of daily life—from taxes and laws to education, healthcare, infrastructure, and personal freedoms.

Even passive actions, such as not voting or staying silent on issues, constitute a form of political behavior. By remaining quiet, citizens may unintentionally allow certain policies, leaders, or social trends to gain momentum. This so-called "apolitical" stance can often be seen as a tacit acceptance of the status quo or an implicit endorsement of those in power.

Moreover, as social beings, people inevitably engage with political issues, whether through their consumption habits, career choices, or social media interactions. It’s nearly impossible to be completely detached from politics, even for those who don’t actively participate.

This issue is especially concerning in India, where many Sanatan (Hindu) citizens seem hesitant or even ashamed to engage in politics. This widespread disengagement is deeply rooted in cultural, educational, and historical factors. Understanding and addressing this near-epidemic avoidance of politics among Sanatan citizens is crucial to ensuring a more inclusive political future of India.

Why modern educated Sanatan (Hindu) citizens of India are involved in politics, whether they realize it or not

Politics is often perceived as something distant, divisive, or even “dirty,” especially by many educated and socially conscious Sanatan citizens of India. However, in reality, their daily lives are deeply intertwined with political systems and processes, whether they are aware of it or not. From paying taxes to sending children to school, their actions and decisions are inherently political. In this article, we will explore three key aspects:

1. first, how modern Sanatan citizens are already participating in politics through their daily lives;
2. second, why many feel ashamed or brainwashed into avoiding politics; and
3. finally, how and why they should consciously engage with politics since they are already a part of it.

How educated Sanatan citizens of India are unknowingly involved in politics

Even though many modern Sanatan citizens may claim to stay out of politics, every aspect of their lives is shaped by political decisions. Let’s break down how their daily activities are deeply political:

Taxes and economic policies

Taxes on goods and services: Every time you buy groceries, eat out, or purchase anything from an electronic gadget to a piece of clothing, you pay a Goods and Services Tax (GST). This tax rate, which impacts the price of almost everything, is a direct result of government policies.

Income taxes and investments: Your salary deductions and tax savings through schemes like the National Pension Scheme (NPS), Employee Provident Fund (EPF), or investments in the Public Provident Fund (PPF) are all dictated by the government. Your financial stability is directly tied to political decisions regarding tax laws.

Education and school curricula

The schooling system: Whether your children attend private or government schools, the curriculum they follow is regulated by government educational bodies like CBSE, ICSE, or state boards. These curricula reflect the priorities and values set by educational policies, which are inherently political.

Higher education: The quota system, government scholarships, and the regulation of universities and colleges are all part of the political machinery. The availability of opportunities in education is shaped by the politics of resource allocation and policy priorities.

Healthcare and public services

Access to healthcare: Whether you access healthcare through government schemes like Ayushman Bharat or private medical care, political decisions have a significant impact. Policies surrounding drug pricing, hospital regulations, and even the construction of healthcare infrastructure are political choices that affect you.

Utilities and infrastructure: The roads you drive on, the electricity you consume, the water you drink—all are provided or regulated by the government. Political leadership determines the quality of infrastructure and services you receive.

Employment and labor laws

Job markets and economic policies: Political decisions affect the job market, economic growth, and industry regulations. Whether you are employed in the private or public sector, your employment conditions, labor laws, minimum wage, and work benefits are shaped by political frameworks.

Social security: Pension schemes, job reservations, maternity leave policies, and more are all the result of political decisions affecting your professional life and financial future.

Rights and freedoms

Legal protections: The fundamental rights you enjoy—freedom of speech, the right to privacy, and protection from discrimination—are guaranteed by the Indian Constitution, a political document that is continuously shaped by political debates and legal reforms.

Voting rights: Even if you choose not to vote, the very option to participate in elections is a political right. Whether or not you exercise this right, it is the foundation of democratic politics.

Clearly, whether consciously or not, modern Sanatan citizens of India are already deeply involved in politics. Every decision they make—where they live, how they spend their money, what schools they send their children to, and how they plan their financial future—hinges on political policies and governance.

Why Sanatan citizens feel ashamed or brainwashed to avoid politics

Despite this obvious involvement in politics, many educated Sanatan citizens have grown to believe that they should steer clear of political discussions. This aversion stems from several deeply rooted factors:

Colonial legacy and mistrust of politics

Colonial hangover: The British colonial era instilled a deep mistrust of politics among many Indians, especially the middle and upper classes. The colonial system of governance was exploitative and corrupt, leading many to believe that politics itself is inherently corrupt and undesirable.

Moral disillusionment: After independence, politics in India became increasingly associated with corruption, favoritism, and vote-bank politics. This perception has led to widespread cynicism and an instinctive avoidance of political involvement among many Sanatan citizens.

Educational and cultural conditioning

Textbook narratives: The Indian education system, influenced heavily by post-independence governments, has largely focused on promoting certain narratives, often sidelining or vilifying Hindu contributions and perspectives. This has created an environment where many Sanatan citizens feel that their cultural identity is incompatible with political discourse.

Secularism as an anti-Hindu stance: Secularism in India, as practiced in political discourse, often led to the marginalization of Hindu concerns, pushing many Sanatan citizens into a corner. The fear of being branded communal has made many shy away from asserting their views in public political debates.

Cultural conditioning of non-involvement: Hindu teachings often emphasize individual spirituality and personal development, which has, in modern times, been misunderstood as an encouragement to avoid worldly affairs like politics. This misinterpretation has contributed to the widespread belief that politics is somehow beneath the spiritual or moral aspirations of Hindus.

Fear of polarization and stigma

Fear of being labeled communal: In the post-independence political landscape, advocating for Hindu rights or even talking about issues from a Sanatan perspective was often branded as "communalism." This has made many educated Sanatan citizens feel ashamed or guilty about engaging in politics out of fear of being labeled as regressive or divisive.

Polarized environment: The increasingly polarized political environment, where every issue is framed as “left vs. right” or “secular vs. communal,” discourages rational discourse. This makes people fear that speaking out on political issues will drag them into unwanted controversy.

How and why Sanatan citizens should consciously participate in politics

Given that Sanatan citizens are already deeply affected by political processes and decisions, they must engage more consciously and constructively. Here’s why and how they should participate in the nation’s politics:

Reclaim politics as Dharma (duty)

Politics as part of Dharma: Sanatan teachings do not suggest withdrawal from the world. On the contrary, they encourage fulfilling one’s duty (Dharma) towards society. Politics is a necessary part of shaping the nation’s ethical and moral framework, and every citizen has a duty to contribute to this process.

Align political engagement with values: Politics need not be a dirty game if approached with integrity. Sanatan citizens can engage in politics by focusing on ethical governance, transparency, and the welfare of society. They can help shape a political system based on truth, fairness, and justice—values central to Sanatan Dharma.

Understand the consequences of political apathy

Protecting rights and freedoms: Political disengagement comes at a cost. Policies that affect religious freedoms, cultural preservation, or education systems can be shaped by forces that do not represent Sanatan interests if they are not engaged.

Representation matters: By not participating in politics, Sanatan citizens allow others to make decisions on their behalf. It’s vital to have representation in the political process to ensure that their voices are heard, and their needs are addressed. Political participation can prevent the erosion of cultural and religious rights that have already been marginalized in various ways.

Start at the local level

Engage in local governance: Begin by participating in local issues—municipal elections, community boards, or local political movements. This is where political engagement can feel most tangible and directly impactful.

Raise issues of concern: Whether it’s temple management, educational reform, or local infrastructure, Sanatan citizens should raise these issues in public forums. Engaging with local politics helps cultivate a sense of empowerment and responsibility.

Contribute to nation-building

Be proactive, not reactive: Instead of only reacting to perceived threats or injustices, Sanatan citizens should adopt a proactive approach. They can promote values such as environmental protection, social justice, and good governance while contributing positively to national debates.

Strengthen democratic institutions: Encourage the use of democratic tools like voting, public advocacy, and civic engagement. By doing so, Sanatan citizens can play a crucial role in strengthening India’s democratic institutions and ensuring they serve all citizens fairly.

Create safe spaces for political discourse

Encourage open, non-partisan discussions: Political engagement doesn’t always have to be aligned with one political party or ideology. Sanatan citizens can promote open, non-partisan discussions on national issues, fostering a more inclusive, constructive dialogue.

Use social media responsibly: Social media is a powerful tool for political participation. Sanatan citizens can use it to share informed opinions, raise awareness of issues, and participate in public discourse without falling into the trap of polarization.

In conclusion, educated Sanatan citizens of India are already deeply enmeshed in politics, even if they are unaware of it. From their economic choices to their children’s education, politics shapes every aspect of their lives. However, many have been conditioned to avoid politics, often due to colonial legacies, cultural misunderstandings, or fear of polarization. It is time for Sanatan citizens to consciously engage in politics, not just as a right, but as a duty to their nation. By reclaiming politics as a space for ethical engagement, they can help shape a future that reflects their values, preserves their rights, and strengthens India’s democracy.

(This is a personal opinion from Ryan Baidya, the Director of Takshila Foundation, San Jose, California, USA, and does not reflect the views of Education Post.)