The Refusal of the Bharat Ratna Award: A Personal Journey and the Process Behind It
Recently, I opted to decline the offer of the Bharat Ratna, one of the highest civilian awards in India. My decision was based on my busy work schedule, which prevented me from attending such significant functions. In this article, I will delve into the detailed process of refusing such an award and shed light on the official steps involved.
Understanding the Bharat Ratna
The Bharat Ratna is India's highest civilian award and is awarded by the President of India on behalf of the Government of India. It is a symbol of national honor and is bestowed upon distinguished Indians who have made extraordinary contributions to the country in various fields. These fields include, but are not limited to, art, literature, science, and high moral character.
The Process of Awarding the Bharat Ratna
The official process of awarding the Bharat Ratna is intricate and governed by several stringent criteria. Here's a step-by-step overview of the process:
Nomination: The Prime Minister, Home Minister, or other high-ranking government officials can make nominations. These nominations are generally made based on recommendations from various bodies and committees, including the State Governments and the Prime Minister's Office.
Approval: The nominations are then put before the Cabinet Committee on Paramilitary Forces (CCPF) and the Citizen's Committee for their approval. Once approved, the recommendations are sent to the President of India for final decision.
Final Decision: The President of India grants the award after consulting with the Prime Minister and the Union Cabinet. Only explicit approval from the President is required for the final award.
The Process of Refusal
While the process for accepting the award is well-documented, the process for declining an award is less commonly discussed but equally formal. Here's how the refusal process typically unfolds:
Submission of Declination: The recipient must formally submit a letter of declination to the President of India through the appropriate channels. This letter should clearly state the reason for the refusal.
Review and Documentation: The letter is reviewed by the relevant ministries and departments to ensure that no illegal or improper grounds exist for the refusal.
Final Decision: The President's office will then make a final decision based on the provided information and the review by the relevant authorities. Once the decision is made, it is conveyed to the recipient and entered in the records.
The Impact of Refusal
When an individual declines an award, such as the Bharat Ratna, it can have various impacts. The recipient's decision must be understood in the context of their personal and professional commitments. Declining the award does not affect the individual's legacy or the recognition they have received. It is an honor to be nominated for such an award, and the willingness to accept or decline is a reflection of one's priorities and obligations.
My decision to decline was a reflection of my current professional obligations. Attending such events would be a significant disruption to my work, making it impossible to fulfill my responsibilities effectively. It is essential to find a balance between one's personal goals and the national duties associated with such awards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the process for refusing the Bharat Ratna, and indeed any such prestigious award, is formal and well-defined. It requires clear communication and the necessary documentation to ensure that the decision is made in a transparent and appropriate manner. The impact of such a decision is minimal when considering the national and personal contexts.
My personal experience of declining the award has underscored the importance of balancing professional responsibilities and national honors. It is a testament to the understanding and respect that exist within the Indian system for such nuanced decisions.