QUES . How do the Indian debates on secularism differ from the debates in the West? UPSC MAINS 2014 GS PAPER 1
HINTS:
Secularism means an attitude of tolerance towards other religions and peaceful co-existence of citizens belonging to different faiths. It is a policy of neutrality and equality by the states towards all religious communities.
Although the general meaning is nominally the same in all democratic setups, its application varies from region to region.
Must read: Secularism : Meaning , Objectives , Characteristics , Importance
The Western concept of secularism connotes a complete separation between religion and the state whereas the Indian Constitution embodies the positive concept of secularism, i.e. giving equal respect to all religions.
In West the state cannot give financial support to educational institutions run by religious communities. Nor can it hinder the activities of religious communities as long as they are within the broad limits set by the law of the land. However the Indian Constitution permits partial financial support for religious schools, as well as the financing of religious buildings and infrastructure by the state.
The state treats all religions with equal indifference in the West. It does not aid any religious institutions through financial means or tax them. Whereas in India the state gives financial aid to religious institutions and taxes them as well.
Must read: Indian model of Secularism
West has no place for the idea of state-supported religious reform. However Indian secularism is compatible with the idea of state-supported religious reform. For example, the Constitution bans untouchability, the government has enacted laws abolishing child marriage, etc.
In west a single uniform code of law is used to dispense justice regardless of religious background. Although in India the law is the same for all citizens, certain personal laws with regard to marriage and property rights are different for every community. But they are all given equal consideration under the Indian Penal Code.
In western secularism, individual rights are at the forefront. Whereas Indian secularism deals not only with religious freedom of individuals but also with the religious freedom of minority communities.
Western secularism often leans towards a ‘melting pot’ model, encouraging assimilation of different cultures. Indian secularism, meanwhile, is akin to a ‘salad bowl,’ where diverse identities coexist while maintaining their distinct characteristics.
Western secularism currently grapples with integrating diverse immigrant cultures and religions into its social fabric. Indian secularism faces the challenge of maintaining secular values amidst occasional communal tensions and evolving political dynamics, ensuring the balance between diverse religious practices and secular principles.
The uniqueness of Indian secularism is that it admits the freedom of religion, unlike its western counterpart that avoids religion.
Thus, the western model of secularism entails complete separation of state from religion. It is very different from Indian model in terms of exclusivity of religion and state. The religious freedom granted in the secular concept, makes the consolidation of religious people under one umbrella a reality in India
External link: https://www.ncert.nic.in/ncerts/l/keps108.pdf
