Indian Secularism

 Secularism refers to the concept that religious beliefs and institutions should not influence (dictate) public policy or law. It ensures that the state remains separate from religious preferences of an individual. It aims to foster a state (to create a society) where all citizens, regardless of their faith or lack of it, are treated equally under the law. 

Secularism supports a diverse (pluralistic) society where people are free to practice any religion without interference or special privileges from the state. It promotes harmony among different religious beliefs through mutual respect and tolerance.

Historical Context of Secularism in India

Indian culture has always been a blend of diverse (various) spiritual traditions and social movements. In ancient times, Hinduism, known as Sanatan Dharma, was inclusive and embraced various spiritual beliefs, integrating them into a unified system (mainstream). Early religions like Jainism and Buddhism, founded by Lord Mahavira and Gautama Buddha respectively, played a significant (crucial) role in promoting religious tolerance.

During medieval times, the Sufi and Bhakti Movements fostered unity among people of different communities through love and peace. Notable (Prominent) figures of these movements included Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, Baba Farid, Sant Kabirdas, Guru Nanak Dev, Sant Tukaram, and Mira Bai, among others.

The idea of secularism in India became (grew) stronger during the freedom struggle, despite (even as) the British policy of "divide and rule." The Indian Constitution, adopted in 1950, made secularism a fundamental principle, ensuring religious freedom and equality for all citizens. This was necessary for India's religious diversity,  which includes Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and others. Mahatma Gandhi believed in secularism based on unity among religious communities through mutual respect and truth.

Philosophy of Indian Secularism

The ancient Hindu idea of Dharma Nirpekshata means that the state should remain neutral toward religion. Indian secularism is based on Sarva Dharma Sambhava, which means that all religions lead to the same ultimate truth, even if their paths are different. Thus, the concept of 'Positive Secularism' emerged and was embraced by leaders like Swami Vivekananda and Mahatma Gandhi.

Unlike Western secularism, India does not have an official state religion, and civil codes on matters like marriage, divorce, inheritance, and alimony,  it allows different religious laws to govern such matters. Indian secularism aims to manage religious diversity while promoting peaceful coexistence.

Secularism and the Indian Constitution

The Indian Constitution includes various principles of secularism.  Initially, the term 'secular' was not in the Preamble. It was added by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment in 1976. This amendment declared India a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic, and republic nation. This amendment emphasized that India is constitutionally a secular country, meaning the state recognizes and respects all religions without favoring any particular one.

Various Articles of the Constitution reflect secularism:

While, Article 14 of the Indian Constitution grants equality before the law and equal protection of the laws to all, Article 15 enlarges the concept of secularism to the widest possible extent by prohibiting discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth.

Article 25 provides 'Freedom of Conscience', allowing individuals (everyone) to freely profess, practice, and propagate (spread) their religion. As per Article 26, every religious group or individual has the right to establish and maintain (manage) institutions for religious and charitable purposes.  Article 27 states that the state shall not compel (force) any citizen to pay any tax for the promotion or maintenance of any particular religion or religious institution. (Article 27 ensures that no citizen is forced to pay taxes for promoting any religion.)

Article 51A, ie. Fundamental Duties obliges (urges) all the citizens to promote harmony, the spirit of brotherhood, and preserve India's rich cultural heritage.

Additionally, The Directive Principles of State Policy also reflect the idea of 'Sarvodaya,' meaning the upliftment of all, regardless of class, caste, or religion.

Threats to Indian Secularism

One of the biggest (major) challenges to secularism in India is the growing ( increasing) influence (interference) of religion in politics. Political parties often select candidates based on religious identity, and voters sometimes make choices based on religious sentiments. 

Communal riots are one of the most dangerous effects of communalism. In recent years, the rise of Hindu nationalism has led to incidents of mob lynching, where people are attacked on mere suspicion of cow slaughter or beef consumption. Other communal issues include the forced closure of slaughterhouses, love jihad campaigns, and ghar-wapsi (forced conversion of Muslims to Hinduism).

Islamic fundamentalism also poses a challenge, with efforts to establish an Islamic state under Sharia law, which conflicts with India's secular and democratic principles. Similarly, the Khalistan movement, which demands a separate Sikh state, threatens Indian secularism.

Way Forward

In a diverse society like India, secularism can be strengthened by expanding religious freedom rather than enforcing strict state neutrality.  It is essential to educate the younger generation about their own religion as well as others to encourage understanding and respect.

A common framework of shared values can help different religious groups coexist peacefully. For initiatives like the Uniform Civil Code to succeed, there must be a supportive environment and social consensus to ensure fairness for all religious communities.