Explaining the concept of secularism, discuss how Indian secularism differs from the West.

Secularism is the concept that demarcates the separation of state and public matters from religion is a personal affair of citizens.

Western model of secularism and religion:

• Rigid state-religion separation.
• No scope of state led to religious reform.
• Addresses only intra-community domination.
• Focus on individual freedom of religion.
• No state aid to religious institutions.
• Opposing public display of religious symbols.

Indian concept of religion:

• “Principled distance” between state and religion – Scope of state reforms.
• Equal protection, respect and treatment to all religions.
• Balancing personal and community religious rights (article 25-28).
• Freedom to profess and practice religion with its symbols, e.g. Sikh kirpans.
• State aid to religious institutions (article 30).
• Preventing intra and inter-community domination.
• Acceptance of plurality of religions.

Impacts:

• Social sense of inclusivity.
• Religious freedom.
• No curbs on display of faith.
• Social harmony.
• Scope for social reforms.

India’s broader religious concept is a mark of its ethos of tolerance and inclusivity

Topics: GS-I: Social Empowerment Communalism Regionalism Secularism • GS-II: Comparison of Indian Constitutional Scheme With Other Countries