2.3. Secular

The Constitution guaranteed secular polity through various constitutional provisions, even before the term was added in 1976. The unity and fraternity of the people of India, professing numerous faiths, has been sought to be achieved by enshrining the ideal of a ‘secular state’. A secular state, in the context of India, means that the State protects all religions equally and does not uphold any religion as the State religion. The term “secular” was added by the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976.

This is one of the glowing achievements of Indian democracy given that her neighbors such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, uphold particular religions as State religions.

The reasons for the necessity of secularism in India are as follows:

♤ India is a heterogeneous society.

♤ The idea of India as a secular state has been challenged by states like Pakistan.

♤ We may be subjected to international propaganda (terrorism and related problems).