Study IQ IAS: Secularism in the Indian Constitution

Role of the Preamble

• The Indian Constitution begins with "We the people of India."
• Defines the nature of India: Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, and Republic.
• The word 'Secular' was added by the 42nd Amendment in 1976.

Meaning of Secularism

• Western Perspective: Separation of state and religion. Religion is private, government is a public body.
• Indian Perspective: Positive secularism, equal treatment of all religions. The state has no official religion.

Secularism in the Indian Constitution

• Articles 25, 29, 30 provide for the protection of minority rights.
• Article 16 addresses potential religious discrimination for Dalits' freedom.

Historical Perspective

• History of religious tolerance from the Vedic age to the Mughal era.
• Idea of religious tolerance and mutual respect during Ashoka's reign.
• Akbar's 'Din-i Ilahi' and the Bhakti and Sufi movements.

Contemporary Context

• Controversies related to Shah Bano case, Babri Masjid, Hijab ban.
• Questions have been raised on the secular nature of the state.

Conclusion

• The power of the Constitution stems from "We the People of India."
• It's our responsibility to uphold the secularism of the country.
• "Are we truly secular?" depends on our own conduct.

Study IQ IAS

• Making the understanding of the Indian Constitution affordable and accessible.