Do We Need More Laws?

We have the largest constitution in the world. Laws, rules, regulations and restrictions are sometimes seen as impediments to our freedom and existence. There is inherent inertia within that resists change. But change is not always bad. Every one of us showed considerable resentment the first time we were sent to school. But we learnt a lot by going to school: knowledge, discipline and values.

If we see the world around, the internal and external instability has increased. Riots, terrorism, crime, financial instability, corporate frauds, divorce, drug addiction, stress and suicide are alarmingly high. There is an urgent need to bring about inner peace and social harmony.

In order to bring stability, we need to bring structure and discipline to our lives and our society. This can be facilitated by inculcating the right values and sense of responsibility. Therefore, we need to embrace laws, rules and regulations to structure our society and our own lives.

A positive change can be brought out by constant practice of favourable values and strong restraint from unfavourable practices, states the ‘Bhagwad Gita’, verse 6:35. We need laws, structures and support systems to enable such practice. Our financial and social stability are taken care of if we harmonise with government and community.

Inner stability brings completeness and fulfilment to our lives. It lends a solid foundation to external stability. Indic sages of the past understood the workings of our inner self. They themselves practised and mastered the spiritual practices of achieving inner stability.