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Communication Quote by B.R. Ambedkar

“In the Hindu religion, one can[not] have freedom of speech. A Hindu must surrender his freedom of speech. He must act according to the Vedas. If the Vedas do not support the actions, instructions must be sought from the Smritis, and if the Smritis fail to provide any such instructions, he must…” quote by B.R. Ambedkar
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““In the Hindu religion, one can[not] have freedom of speech. A Hindu must surrender his freedom of speech. He must act according to the Vedas. If the Vedas do not support the actions, instructions must be sought from the Smritis, and if the Smritis fail to provide any such instructions, he must follow in the footsteps of the great men. He is not supposed to reason. Hence, so long as you are in the Hindu religion, you cannot expect to have freedom of thought””

B.R. Ambedkar

About This Quote

Source Speech: Constituent Assembly Debates, India, 1948

In Hindu tradition, individual speech and thought are subordinate to scriptural authority, limiting personal freedom of expression.

In simple terms: Hindu doctrine limits free speech and thought.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the tension between tradition and personal liberty.

Themes

religion authority freedom of speech tradition individual rights

Mood

reflective critical thoughtful

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • academic discussion
  • legal reform
  • interfaith dialogue
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

scriptural hierarchy obedience censorship

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does scriptural authority affect personal expression?
  • Can tradition coexist with modern freedoms?
A Different Perspective

Modern societies often protect free speech, challenging such constraints.

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