What Is True Secularism?

At a recent event in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi sparked debate by claiming that secularism is a concept rooted in European history. He argued that India, as a dharma-centric nation, did not face the historical conflicts between church and monarchy that necessitated the emergence of secularism in Europe. Consequently, he asserted that the term was absent from the original Constitution and was only added during the Emergency period.

Ravi expressed concern over the misinterpretation of secularism, which he described as a "fraud" against the people of India. He remarked, "Secularism is not a Bharatiya concept; it arose from the conflict between the church and the king in Europe." Highlighting the debates within the Constituent Assembly during the drafting of the Indian Constitution, he noted that the members ultimately deemed secularism unnecessary, recognizing Bharat as a nation rooted in dharma without a comparable conflict.

The Governor suggested that the introduction of secularism during the Emergency under "one insecure Prime Minister"-a reference to Indira Gandhi-was an effort to appease certain groups.

Ravi's comments prompted a reevaluation of the meaning of secularism, especially in the context of the Indian Constitution. While dictionaries define 'secular' as being disconnected from religion, this notion originated in medieval Europe, where kings sought to establish their authority over the church.

In India, secularism was formally acknowledged in the Constitution through the 42nd Amendment in 1976. This strategic move aimed to distinguish India from Pakistan, which was established as a separate nation for Muslims. The framers of the Constitution sought to protect religious minorities, ensuring they did not feel vulnerable to the majority.

The Governor's statements ignited discussions about the historical and contextual nuances of secularism in India. As Babasaheb Ambedkar noted during the drafting discussions, a secular state must recognize the religious sentiments of its citizens while ensuring that no single religion is imposed on the populace.

Former President S Radhakrishnan reinforced this sentiment by stating that secularism does not diminish the importance of religion in society. The framework of Indian secularism, as envisioned in the Constitution, rests on three key principles: no state religion, the freedom for individuals to practice their faith, and the non-discrimination of different religions.

For instance, the White House celebrates the Christmas as well as Diwali. The phrase "In God we trust" serves as the official motto of the United States and appears on its currency. Likewise, the former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hosted a Diwali celebration at 10 Downing Street.

So, religion serves as a foundational guide in people's lives, influencing humanity's journey toward self-fulfillment. Our understanding of right and wrong is often shaped by religious teachings, which act as a moral compass for society. Therefore, discarding religion might not equate to genuine progress.

A truly democratic and secular state is one that honors and respects all religions, both at the governmental level and among its citizens. Embracing a constructive interpretation of secularism aligns more closely with democratic values.