The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): A significant majority of Indians, 79%, believe that “India belongs to all religions equally, not just Hindus,” according to the latest Pre-Poll Study 2024 conducted by the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies (CSDS) and Lokniti, as reported by Scroll.in. This survey, which involved 10,019 participants across 19 states from March 28 to April 8, underscores the strong sentiment of religious pluralism prevailing in the country.
Despite the complex religious dynamics often highlighted in media, only 11% of those surveyed think that India should be exclusive to Hindus. This finding is particularly notable given the current political and social landscape, including a recent directive from the Gujarat home department. This directive under the Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act requires Hindus in Gujarat seeking to convert to Buddhism, Jainism, or Sikhism to obtain prior approval from a district magistrate, highlighting the official stance that these religions are distinct from Hinduism.
Furthermore, the study indicates a dip in public trust in the Election Commission of India (ECI), with only 28% of respondents expressing a high level of trust in the institution, a significant decrease from the 51% recorded in the 2019 Pre-Poll Study by Lokniti-CSDS.
This survey paints a picture of a society that largely embraces its diverse religious heritage amidst ongoing debates and legislative changes affecting religious freedom and national identity.