Articles on Jainism as an

Independent and Separate

Religion of ancient India

Jainism is one of the oldest religion in the world. Jainism representing shramanic (ascetic) tradition and Hinduism representing Vedic tradition have co-existed peacefully side by side since ages. Each has a separate identity, but at the same time has influenced each other on account of common culture. Unfortunately some misguided souls (either unknowingly or knowingly) are out to project that Jainism is an offshoot of Hinduism.

Following are the articles to debunk these falsehoods and misrepresentation of Jainism:-

1) Jainism is an independent and original religion of ancient India

A lot of debate has been generated on the issue of whether “Jainism is a part of Hinduism” or whether “Minority Status should be given to Jains under Indian Constitution or not?” Many people, Jains and non-jains alike, are harboring misconceptions that Jains are part of Hinduism. The debate generated various statements such as:- …………………..read more by clicking on the link.

2) Myths concerning Jainism and Hinduism clarified

At the outset let me clarify that there is no intention to belittle or discredit any religion or philosophy. Neither any religion nor any groups are targeted in this article. Further we have no quarrel with our dear Hindu brothers with whom Jains share a special relationship. However, certain myths are being propagated by various people questioning the very independent existence of Jainism by claiming it as an offshoot of Hinduism. This is undermining the very existence of Jainism. These people are:- …………………..read more by clicking on the link.

3) Myths concerning Minority status for Jainism clarified

Having debunked the myth that Jainism is part of Hinduism, (See previous articles) now we shall take up the issue of minority status for Jainism as the next issue. Once again certain fringe elements have propagated some myths regarding this issue. Myth # 1 – Jain Community is rich and powerful facing no threat…………………..read more by clicking on the link.

4) Why we want a Minority Status?

It is really surprising to see the unwarranted opposition for minority status to Jainism, especially by some educated Jains. Apparently this is due to ignorance as to what benefits are likely to accrue to Jain community, if it is provided a minority status. Rather than applauding the efforts of people like Shri Bal Patil for moving Supreme Court, our own people are involved in leg pulling. The issue of minority status for Jains needs to be understood in proper perspective. At the outset, we need to understand that we don't want minority status for Jains simply for reservations or government grants…………………..read more by clicking on the link.

5) Jainism and Hinduism separate religions say ancient manuscripts

Though the controversial Freedom of Religion (amendment) Bill recently passed by Gujarat Assembly the government has clubbed Jains as a denomination of Hinduism, several ancient manuscripts and texts present at the Indology institute here describe the two as different religious entities. …………………..read more by clicking on the link.

6) PRESS NOTE ON THE GUJARAT FREEDOM OF RELIGION BILL CLASSIFYING JAINS AND BUDDHISTS AS HINDUS

ALL INDIA JAIN MINORITY FORUM

By Balpatil

The amended Freedom of Religion Bill passed by the Gujarat Assembly classifying Jains and Buddhists as Hindu is an unwarranted assault on their distinct religious identity recognised by the Constitution itselfIt would be best to quote what Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru assured to a Jain delegation on the so-called ambiguity of Explanation II of Article 25 of the Constitution of India. …………………..read more by clicking on the link.

7) Press Note on the Indian Supreme Court Judgement on Jain Minority Issue on a Petition by Bal Patil

The press and media reports on the recent Supreme Court Judgment of the Three-Judge Bench of the Chief Justice, R.C. Lahoti, Justice D.M. Dharmadhikari and Justice P.K. Balasubramanyam are misleading. The reports were headlined stating that SC.declares Sikhs, Jains part of broader Hindu religion. Such reports appeared in leading English dailies like the Hindustan Times, The Tribune, The Times of India, and the local language newspapers. . …………………..read more by clicking on the link.

Anish Shah