Essay on The Indian model of secularism for Class 10, 12, Mains Exam (UPSC, PSC, SSC)
The Indian model of secularism Essay : Secularism is an important notion that underpins the framework of the Indian Constitution. Indian Philosophy is related to the “ Sarva Dharma Sambhava” concept, which implies that all religious paths are the same destination. Thus it is the duty of all citizens to respect all religions and refrain from any biased views. The model of secularism was adopted and embraced by Western society whereby the government does not interfere between the church and the state. The same thing is adopted by the Indian constitution which implies that the government does not own any adherence to any particular religion. Thus India has got no official state religion.
Difference between Indian and Western secularism:
The stark difference between Indian and Western secularism is that stresses the rigid separation between religion and the state. Secularism in India infers that the State can participate wholeheartedly in all the affairs of the state. In other words, religion is confined within the economic, cultural and social realms. The concept of secularism is prescribed in Articles 25-28 as a Fundamental right of the Indian Constitution. The following rights are assigned to the citizens of India.
These are rights to practice any religion, freedom of conscience, rights to propagate any religion, and the right to profess any religion. Indian citizens and non-Indian citizens are granted the absolute freedom of propagating and practising their religion. The three principles of secularism are institutional separation, non-discrimination of grounds of any religion and freedom of belief.
On the other hand, in the United States, secularism refers to the separation of the church from the state, with no discrimination on the grounds of religion. The nation has gained prominence in the world for being the first-ever secular nation. American secularism is growing at a fast pace and innovations are taking place every now and then. At the core of the democratic party, the notion of secularism is deeply embedded.
Significance of Indian secularism:
Secularism in India is an optimist content which is indifferent to political, cultural, social and economic aspects. It bears much resemblance to the Vedic concept of Dharma Nirakpekshata which infers that the state has no kind of interference with the religion. In Medieval India, the religious movement by the Sufi saints such as Mir Kuhtar Akhtar, Kabir and Hindu saints such as the Nayanmars and the Alwars tried at safeguarding the religious aspect of Indian society. This helped in the prevention of religious riots and communal biasedness. When the British colonists, invaded India, it is the preaching of the religious saints that aided in preventing the effect of rule and divide. Moreover, the Indian freedom movement gave a strong effect and paved a successful path among various religious communities that existed in India. Article 25 of the Indian Constitution stresses the freedom of conscience which also covers religious doctrines and rituals. This substantiates the fact that India is a multilingual, multicultural, multiracial and multi-religious society. Festivals from all communities and all religions are celebrated in India.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, it can be said that the Indian model of secularism promotes harmony, fraternity and brotherhood. However, in India, it is also noted that during elections, certain political parties try to get hold of religious sects so as to draw a large number of votes. Certain religious sects misuse their powers in the name of the religious minority. Despite being a secular religion, often riots take place between Hindus and Muslims. Most people are unaware of the ideology of secularism as a result of which they misuse the powers granted to them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is secularism?
In simple words, secularism means giving equal rights and respect to all citizens irrespective of their religious backgrounds.
State the name of the Article of the Indian Constitution in which secularism is mentioned.
Article 25
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