The Supreme Court of India dismissed a plea urging the Centre to establish guidelines for the “protection” of Hinduism in the country.
The bench, led by Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, expressed its reluctance to entertain a petition with such a specific demand.
The court highlighted the nature of the prayer mentioned in the petition, which sought directives to the Government of India to formulate guidelines safeguarding Hinduism.
The bench, which also included Justices Sudhanshu Dhulia and Ahsanuddin Amanullah, voiced concerns over potential similar requests for other religions, stating, “Somebody will say protect Islam in India. Somebody will say protect Christianity in India.”
The petitioner, a resident of Uttar Pradesh, argued his case in person. However, when he brought up concerns related to the educational curriculum, the court emphasized that it was the government’s responsibility to determine the curriculum.
The bench said, “You did something, you made something, you can propagate it. Nobody is stopping you. But you can’t say everyone should do that.”
In the February 27, 2023 order, the Court termed the plea “completely misconceived” and a “publicity interest petition.”
“The petition is completely misconceived predicated on the general observations that the Hindu religion is in danger and seeks protection from the Court. The petitioner alleges to be a social activist. It would squarely fit into the peg of a publicity interest petition and is accordingly dismissed,” the order had stated.
