उड़ान ऐसी भरें कि आसमां छोटा पड़ जाए

Summary

The editorial reflects on India's independence from British rule in 1947 and questions whether true freedom has been achieved after 66 years. It argues that citizens still feel helpless and mentally distressed, with negative thoughts dominating society. Money and power have eroded life values, making people indifferent to moral development. Despite advancements in education and science, expectations remain unfulfilled. The text raises concerns about safety, noting that people fear for their lives daily due to violence, kidnapping, and theft, with women and girls particularly unsafe both at home and in public. It laments the rise of unethical elements, including exploitation, terrorism, and natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, and extreme heat. Basic needs such as education, healthcare, food, clothing, and shelter remain unmet for many. Growing economic inequality has fostered immorality and selfishness, with competition becoming corrupted by a desire to surpass others unfairly. While the country has developed well-lit roads, individuals remain immersed in darkness. Adoption of foreign cultures has distorted the concept of universal brotherhood, undermining India's historical and glorious values. Increasing luxury and consumerism have broken all limits of restraint. Laws exist but lack effective implementation; justice is present but exploitation and oppression persist. Intellectual capabilities lack proper direction. Politics is marred by corruption, while epidemics, inflation, and disease have deeply affected society. Environmental pollution has made people desperate for basic resources like water, air, and sunlight. Immorality, corruption, and scandals have become synonymous with leaders, and even some religious figures exploit the innocent. However, the editorial notes that there are still politicians, social workers, and religious leaders who follow the non-violence and compassion of Mahatma Gandhi and Lord Buddha, dedicating themselves to public welfare. It recalls Acharya Tulsi's inspiration to adopt true freedom and calls for unity to resist injustice and oppression, emphasizing that this struggle is not against foreign military power but against oneself and life values, requiring resolve, self-confidence, and dedication to the goal.