Peace, prosperity only in a society built on consensus and a sense of fraternity: CJI Ramana

Hyderabad: “Peace and prosperity can only prevail in a society built on consensus and a sense of fraternity. Beyond the ideas of tolerance, we need acceptance. We should not seek uniformity, rather we should seek unity”, this was Chief Justice of India N V Ramana’s message to Indian society, especially the students three weeks before his retirement

Also noting that global culture is emerging as a threat to local cultural symbols and identities, the CJI said social media, television and pop culture glamourize a particular way of life and “sadly we are blindly aping the same. Instead of celebrating our distinct heritage and culture, we are allowing our rich identities to be blurred”

Chief Justice was addressing the 82nd convocation ceremony of Osmania University, Hyderabad, where he was earlier conferred the degree of Doctor of Laws (Honoris Causa)

“Another aspect that is key to the sustenance of our democracy is honouring our plurality. Instead of fostering the feeling of “othering”, our education should lead us where we can nurture diversity. Speaking of diversity, we should not lose sight of the big picture in the globalised world. Today’s youth is facing several unique challenges. Our way of living has undergone a massive transformation with the passage of time. Our food, language, clothes, games, festivals and so on are deeply rooted expressions of our identity and values. These expressions of our identity are tools of social cohesion but also are linked with our past”, said the CJI

“Today’s youth is facing several unique challenges. Our way of living has undergone a massive transformation with the passage of time. Our food, language, clothes, games, festivals and so on are deeply rooted expressions of our identity and values. These expressions of our identity are tools of social cohesion but also are links with our past. The memories and stories of our great-grandparents, grandparents and parents; tell us about the world as it was. But, most importantly, we derive our sense of continuity. These identities help us find our roots. With rapid globalization and massive developments in science and technology, several cultures and identities are interacting with each other, with increased frequency. Driven by the winds of globalization, we are moving towards a global culture. As this global culture engulfs the world, the need for sustaining diversity assumes great significance.”, he said

CJI however hastened to add that he was not criticising globalisation.

“I hope my observations are not taken as criticism of globalization per se. But the above issues definitely prove to us that we have somewhere gone wrong with the present model of globalization. Although, we have made significant achievements, yet our societies are becoming increasingly divided over access to wealth and resources. That is why the present generation is faced with the unique challenge of finding solutions to these pressing concerns. The rising inequities between classes need urgent attention. We need to find a model of globalization which is sustainable, equitable and just for all. Such a model of globalisation demands harmony, respect and coexistence of differing identities. Peace and prosperity can only prevail in a society built on consensus and a sense of fraternity. Beyond the ideas of tolerance, we need acceptance. We should not seek uniformity, rather we should seek unity.”, said the Chief Justice.