The Study of Secularism in India: With regard to the Constitution, Constitutionalism in India and Society

Abstract

Secularism in India has always been a topic of debate for time immemorial. The word “Secular” was added in the Preamble by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976 along with the word “Socialist” and “Integrity”. Even though, the word secular is not defined anywhere in the constitution but the Secular nature of our Constitution can be inferred from right to freedom of religion mentioned in Part III. Secularism is defined further in this paper but to put it in simple words, it can be said that a Secular State is one which does not have a religion of its own and treats all religions equally. The Indian Secularism is neither anti-religion like some of the socialist or communist constitutions, nor does it creates a wall of separation between the State and the religion as in the US. It is based on equal respect for all religion. This paper will explain the meaning of Secularism and will also give a brief historical background of Secularism in India. The paper will mention the methodology which is used by the author. The paper will also explain in depth the various Articles of the Indian Constitution which embodies the principles of Secularism in them with the help of various landmark judgments. The paper will also argue the relationship between Secularism and Politics. It explains how the political parties have kept religion as a basis in order to fulfil their political motive and fill their vote banks. In the conclusion, the paper will mention in briefly how Secularism in India can be saved with the joint effort of the State as well as the citizens and how can an atmosphere of harmony can be restored in the country.