The urgency to intervene in defence of democracy, secularism and justice has never been more pressing than in the conditions prevailing in the country today. There is a recognizable change in the general tenor of public discourse; unlike in the past, it is informed more by the communal than by secular ethos. In the face of concerted social mobilisation mounted by communal organisations by invoking religious symbols and sentiments, liberal civil society has come under a siege. Nevertheless, it is evident from the large number of secular democratic initiatives by political parties, voluntary organisations and individuals that society is seized of the need for sustained and constructive action for strengthening secularism and democracy and for realising justice and peace. Their numbers and strength are not inconsequential. Yet, there are moments when the communal ideologies and social and political organisations appear to be poised to conquer. While it regroups, the secular parties remain weak-kneed, defensive and indecisive.
It is therefore necessary to energize the secular forces by a conscious regrouping and co-operation. ANHAD is intended to be one modest attempt among many in this direction.
Like any other progressive voluntary organisation the work of ANHAD is also evolving with experience. Yet, some areas were identified for initial focus These are cultural action, social mobilisation, defence of civil liberties and work in the diaspora. The cultural action is conceived as intervention in daily life practices through popular and folk culture, syncretic and tolerance systems of faith and the building of communities invested in pluralism, while challenging hatred, obscurantism and superstition.
ANHAD undertakes grass root level activities, with the support and collaboration of the existing organisations wherever possible and if not, by initiating work on its own through volunteers. The emphasis is on constructive and continuous activity, which would create and sustain secular and democratic consciousness.
ANHAD means without limits. We envisage it as an inclusive institution in which every one who stands for democracy, secularism, justice and peace can participate.
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