Question on Secularism

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Question: What is meant by Secularism? Briefly explain the Secular character of Indian State as mentioned in the Constitution.

UPSC Syllabus: 

GS 2

Polity 

Indian Constitution: historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.

Relevance: UPSC Previous year Mains Exam. 

1994 Indicate the provisions of Indian Constitution relating to Secularism. 

2005 Give your views on the right to freedom of religions as enshrined in the Indian Constitution. Do they make India a secular State? 

ANSWER:

Secularism is a doctrine which states that religion is kept separate from the social, political, economical and cultural spheres of life. Religion is open to one and all and is given as a personal choice to an individual without any different treatment to the latter.

The Constitution of India stands for a secular state, which means that  it does not prioritize any one religion over another and caters to the needs of all its people equally.

The following provisions of the Constitution reveal the State's secular:

• In Preamble all citizens have liberty of belief, faith and worship .

• The Fundamental Rights reflect secular ideals by  providing that:
• Article 14 : Every very person shall have equality before the law irrespective of religion.
• Article 15 : The State shall not discriminate against any citizen on the ground of religion and,
• Article 16 : ensure equality of opportunity for all in matters of public employment. 
• Article 25: Freedom to profess,practice and propagate any religion. 
• Article 27: No person shall be compelled to pay any taxes for the promotion of a particular religion.
• Article 28: No religious instruction shall be provided in any educational institution maintained by the State. 
• Article 30: All minorities shall have the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.

• Under the Directive Principles it is provided that The State shall endeavour to secure for all a Uniform Civil Code (Article 44).

Our constitution pursues the ideal of Secularism due to the multi-religious nature of Indian society,that not only helps maintain national integrity but also  gives equal respect to all religions. In this light it had put an obligation upon State to not only maintain a secular character but also pursue secular policies.