Book Title: ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 03
Author(s): International School for Jain Studies
Publisher: International School for Jain Studies

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Page 274
________________ SCHOOL OF SELF STUDY IS THE SUPREME AUSTERITY स्वाध्याय परमे their use for the detriment of general public. It is the definite view of the author that these provisions are made to encourage the doctrine of non-possession. 25 Ratan Karand Stāvakacāra verse 2 26 Yuktiyukanvśāsan verse 61. राप To punish and eliminate hoarding, a law concerning essential commodities act was also incorporated under which the traders can be punished for hoarding essential commodities. Recently the government is considering enacting a law to confiscate wealth acquired through illegal means. STUDY NOTES version 5.0 Even with the legal and doctrinal provisions against hoarding, we see a significant increase in acquiring and hoarding wealth. In our society, a rich man is becoming richer and the poor is becoming poorer. Under the grab of privatization of trade and industry, liberalization of the economy and international trade, we see eternal doctrine of non possession and constitutional declarations being completely set aside. All these are being done against the concept of a welfare state and the society based on the principles of equality. Hence it has become essential to remove these discrepancies. The above discussions make it amply clear that the five principles of Jainism vows have greatly influenced the farming of the constitution and legal framework of India. The need is for us to understand the intricacies of these principles and their practical aspects and make efforts to implement them. Similarly it is a warning to the government to implement in letter and spirit the provisions of the constitution of India and the legal framework so that India can again resurrect its great spiritual inheritance. According to Acarya Samant Bhadra 'Religion is one which takes the living beings from the worldly pain to a zone of peace and tranquility'25 i.e. the fundamental purpose of the religion I to provide happiness to its followers. Human rights are the objectives of the religion as the word dharma means the one which is to be practiced. That which is the cause of the happiness of all living beings is religion. Jain religion talks of Sarvodaya i.e. welfare of all living beings.28 Page 261 of 273

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