Analyse the applicability of concept of Indian secularism with relevant illustrations. (200 Words)
Refer - The Hindu
Enrich the answer from other sources, if the question demands.
IAS Parliament 5 years
KEY POINTS
· In keeping with this idea of religiousfreedom for all, India also adopted a strategy of separatingthe power of religion and the power of the State. Secularism, refers to this separation of religion from the State.
· The Indian Constitution mandates that the Indian State besecular. According to the Constitution, only a secular Statecan realise its objectives to ensure the following:
· that one religious community does not dominateanother;
· that some members do not dominate other members ofthe same religious community;
· that the State does not enforce any particular religionnor take away the religious freedom of individuals.
India uses a strategy of distancing itself from religion. The Indian State is not ruled by a religious groupand nor does it support any one religion.
· Example - In India,government spaces like law courts, police stations,government schools and offices are not supposed to displayor promote any one religion.
· Article 25 of the constitution of India emphasise on the propagation of ones’ religious principles without impinging on the forcible conversions.
Indian secularism works to prevent the above domination is through a strategy of noninterference.This means that in order to respect the sentiments of all religions and not interfere with religiouspractices.
· Example- Undertaking religious processions with the permission of concerned authorities.
Indian secularism works to preventthe domination listed earlier is through a strategy of intervention.
· Example- State’s stance against the hounour killings.
The intervention of the State can also be in the form ofsupport. The Indian Constitution grants the right to religious communities to set up their own schools andcolleges. It also gives them financial aid on a non-preferential basis.
