Topic Details (Notes format)

Secular State vs. Religious Freedoms

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

Delves into India’s model of secularism, where the state maintains principled distance from all religions yet guarantees freedom of conscience (Articles 25–28). Unlike the “wall of separation” notion, India’s secularism allows state intervention in religious practices for social reform, such as banning untouchability or regulating temple finances. This fosters communal harmony but sometimes sparks debates on uniform civil code, minority rights, or state-funded pilgrimages. Critics question whether consistent neutrality is always upheld. Nevertheless, the Constitution aims to balance multiple faiths fairly, fostering an inclusive social order that respects religious pluralism and modern liberal values.

Practice Questions

Which of the following is NOT a power of the Rajya Sabha?

विधान सभा अध्यक्ष की योग्यता किस आधार पर निर्धारित होती है?

संसद सदस्यों की योग्यता किस अनुच्छेद में निर्धारित है?

निर्वाचन आयोग के अध्यक्ष का कार्यकाल कितना होता है?

भारत में निर्वाचन आयोग का गठन किस आधार पर होता है?

Which of the following is a feature of the Indian Parliament?

संसद के अधिवेशन के अंतराल का निर्धारण किसके द्वारा किया जाता है?

What is the maximum number of judges in the Supreme Court of India?

What is the maximum number of members in the Rajya Sabha?

संसद के अध्यक्ष को किस नाम से जाना जाता है?