Secularism: Separation of religion from
the state, ensuring equal treatment of all citizens regardless of their religious beliefs.
Indian Secularism: India adopted a
strategy of separating power from religion and state, preventing any one religion from dominating others.
Objectives:
Prevent one religious community from dominating another.
Ensure the state doesn't enforce any particular religion or take away individual freedom.
Prevent some members from dominating others within the same religious community.
Important Concepts
Secular State: A state that maintains
a principled distance from religion, neither promoting nor interfering with religious practices.
Non-Interference: The state doesn't interfere with religious practices unless they violate fundamental rights or laws.
Intervention: The state may intervene to prevent domination or protect individu rights.
Questions and Answers
1. What is secularism in the Indian context?
Indian secularism refers to the separation of power from religion and state, ensuring equal treatment of all citizens.
2. Why is it important for one religious community not to dominate another?
This ensures equality and prevents tyranny, promoting brotherhood and mutual cooperation.
3. What is the role of the state in promoting secularism?
The state maintains a principled distance from religion, ensuring equal treatment and preventing domination.
4. Can the government intervene if a religious group says their religion allows infanticide?
Yes, the government can intervene as infanticide is a violation of fundamental rights and laws.
5. What are some examples of secular practices in India?
1.Examples include government schools not promoting any particular religion and laws
2.banning untouchability
Question 1: Different types of religious practices
People in our neighborhood practice different religions like Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, and Christianity. They visit temples, mosques, gurudwaras, and churches to pray and worship.
Question 2: Government intervention in infanticide
Yes, the government will stop infanticide because it's a crime and against human rights.
Question 3: Objectives of a secular state
No one religion should dominate another.
The state shouldn't force any particular religion.
Everyone should be equal within their own community.
Question 4: Religious holidays in school calendars
Our school calendar has holidays for different religions like Eid, Diwali, Christmas, and Guru Nanak Jayanti.
Question 5: Different views within the same religion
Yes, there can be different views within the same religion. For example, Hindus worship different gods, and Muslims are divided into Shia and Sunni.
Question 6: Indian state's role in religion
The Indian state respects all religions and doesn't interfere unless someone's rights are violated.
Question 7: Poster on peace and religious tolerance
The poster means that peace requires respecting differences and working together. It promotes harmony and acceptance among people of different religions.
