Authoritarianism sets in when society fears questions: Justice Bhuyan
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DHANANJAY MAHAPATRA
Supreme Court Justice Ujjal Bhuyan has warned that societal fear of questioning and the acceptance of unverified claims foster authoritarianism. He urged the youth to embrace rational inquiry and the constitutional spirit of 'we' to maintain national unity.
The Perils of Silent Conformity: Justice Bhuyan’s Call for Rational Inquiry
In a recent address at the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya, Supreme Court Justice Ujjal Bhuyan delivered a poignant critique of the current socio-political climate. He argued that the rise of authoritarianism is not merely a top-down phenomenon but is facilitated by a societal shift toward intellectual passivity. When a populace begins to fear questioning authority or accepting claims without rigorous verification, the democratic fabric weakens, leaving the nation vulnerable to manipulation and the entrenchment of unjust practices.
Beyond the Lab: Cultivating Scientific Temper
Justice Bhuyan emphasized that the concept of 'scientific temper'—a duty enshrined under Article 51A of the Indian Constitution—must not be relegated to the confines of scientific laboratories. Instead, he framed it as a fundamental attitude of inquiry and openness. By encouraging students to question traditions and verify information, he advocates for an educational environment where rational thought is the primary tool for citizenship, rather than blind adherence to existing narratives.
Dismantling the 'Us vs. Them' Binary
Central to the Justice’s message is the rejection of the polarized 'us' versus 'they' dynamic that currently dominates discourse. He posits that this binary is a precursor to systemic division and social fragmentation. By urging a transition toward the inclusive spirit of 'we'—a direct reference to the Preamble of the Constitution—Justice Bhuyan calls for a collective identity that transcends narrow partisan or sectarian lines, reinforcing the foundational principle of unity in diversity.
The University as a Cradle of Democracy
Justice Bhuyan identified universities as the critical sites where this 'germination' of rational inquiry must occur. He suggested that the capacity to think critically cannot be developed overnight; it requires a sustained culture of debate and pedagogical freedom. By empowering the youth to demand evidence and reason, academic institutions can act as the primary defense against the encroaching silence that allows authoritarian tendencies to thrive.
Implications for Civil and Political Society
This call to action holds significant implications for the broader Indian political landscape. As the opposition continues to raise concerns regarding the state of governance, the Justice’s remarks serve as a non-partisan reminder that the health of a democracy is ultimately measured by the vigilance of its citizens. The warning against treating tradition as beyond questioning serves as a vital safeguard, ensuring that society remains capable of reform and progress in the face of static, potentially regressive, power structures.
Conclusion: A Vision for a Rational Future
Ultimately, Justice Ujjal Bhuyan’s address is a plea for the preservation of the constitutional soul of India. By advocating for a society that values evidence-based dialogue over fear-driven conformity, he provides a roadmap for democratic resilience. Whether this call will resonate within the halls of academia and the public square remains to be seen, but it stands as a significant judicial contribution to the ongoing national discourse on liberty, truth, and the nature of authority.
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