Secularism is an ideology that emphasizes the separation of religion and the state and the neutrality of the government with respect to religious beliefs..
- It has broadly two meanings:
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- Separation of religion from the state i.e. Dharm Nirpekshta.
- Equal respect to all religions by state i.e. Sarva Dharma Samabhava.
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- The Indian constitution aims for a secular state where all religions are treated equally
Constitutional Provisions and Judicial Interpretation of Secularism in India
- Part III: Fundamental Rights
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- Article 14: Ensures equality before the law for all citizens.
- Article 16(1): Provides equal opportunity in public employment, prohibiting discrimination based on religion, race, caste, etc.
- Article 25: Grants the freedom of conscience and the right to profess, practice, and propagate religion.
- Article 26: Allows religious groups to manage religious affairs and institutions.
- Article 27: Prohibits using tax proceeds to promote any religion.
- Article 28: Regulates religious instruction in educational institutions.
- Articles 29 & 30: Ensure cultural and educational rights of minorities.
- Part IVA: Fundamental Duties
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- Article 51A: Calls upon citizens to promote harmony and preserve India’s composite culture.
- 42nd Amendment (1976): Added ‘secular’ to the Preamble, emphasizing equal respect for all religions.
- Judicial Interpretations:
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- Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973): Declared secularism as part of the Constitution’s basic structure.
- Bommai Case (1994): Defined secularism as equal treatment of all religions.
Differences Between Indian and Western Secularism
- Separation vs. Equal Respect
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- Western Secularism: Complete separation between religion and the state.
- Indian Secularism: Equal respect for all religions, allowing state engagement with religions.
- Funding of Religious Institutions
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- Western Secularism: No state funding for religious institutions.
- Indian Secularism: Permits partial funding for religious schools, buildings, and infrastructure.
- State-Supported Religious Reform
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- Western Secularism: No role in religious reform.
- Indian Secularism: Supports reforms like banning untouchability and child marriage.
- Focus on Rights
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- Western Secularism: Prioritizes individual religious rights.
- Indian Secularism: Protects both individual and minority community rights.
Factors Threatening India’s Secular Fabric
- Political Interference: Religious factors influence candidate selection and voting.
- Communal Incidents: Events like the Babri Masjid demolition, 1984 anti-Sikh riots, and Delhi riots (2020) showcase rising communalism.
- Minority Exclusion: Minorities, like Muslims, face underrepresentation (e.g., 2.5% in bureaucracy despite being 14% of the population).
- Radicalization: Youth radicalization by groups like ISIS threatens secularism.
- Rising Intolerance: Increasing religious intolerance undermines social harmony.
Measures for a Truly Secular State
- Education: Use education to foster understanding and reduce prejudice.
- Social Reforms: Implement reforms like the Uniform Civil Code and promote minority inclusion.
- Secular Politics: Replace communal politics with secular, inclusive politics.
- Countering Extremism: Enforce strong measures against religious extremism.
- Protecting Minority Rights: Ensure equal opportunities and protect minorities from violence.
While Indian secularism aims to balance diverse religious identities with state neutrality, ongoing reforms, inclusive politics, and countering extremism are essential for preserving the secular fabric. Strengthening these values can promote unity and respect across India’s multicultural society.
