Answer: 

Introduction:

Secularism is the principle that determines the relationship between the State and the religion. It plays an important role in a diverse country like India. In India, secularism means the State views all religions as equal i.e., it has equal affinity towards all religions.

• The term ‘secular’ is enshrined in the Preamble to the Constitution of India via 42nd Constitution Amendment Act 1976

Body:

Secularism is understood differently by different nations. The Indian concept of secularism is different from the Western concept in the following ways:

• Level of separation between state and religion: In the West, secularism is conceived as complete separation of state and religion. But in India secularism, the state is not separate from religion. Rather the state sees all religions as equal.
• Level of engagement between state and religion: While the Western idea maintains strict separation, Indian secularism believes in positive aid to religion. Thus, we have the state supporting religious minority institutions, state passing laws to stop harmful religious practices, etc. The State is aided in administration by religious virtues and values.
• Diversity: The Western model of secularism is not suited for India because India has a great variety in religion unlike the West which is largely having one majority religion. Diverse customs and practices are also promoted by the State in the Indian model.
• Inter as well as intra-religious matters: Indian concept of secularism is broader than western concept as it covers inter-religious conflicts as well as reforming religions from within. Example: Laws against animal sacrifices, devadasi system, etc.

Conclusion:

Thus, Indian secularism is broader than western. The state in India walks a tightrope between the requirement of religious liberty and the demand for equality and justice. The Indian model of secularism, over the years, has allowed a multi-religious society like ours to thrive in peace without the development of any major differences. This speaks volumes about the success of the Indian model of secularism.

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