[Points: Introduction—two nation theory—real meaning of secularism—secularism in Indian constitution—example of secularism in India—concept—conclusion.]
In India, the concept of secularism was originally born as a res ponse to the challenge of the theory of two nations. Indian nationalism proclaimed that India is a secular country and that there is no scope of differentiating between Hindus and Muslims. However, the two nation theory was ultimately forced upon India in the sense that India was divided into India and Pakistan.
Secularism in India is a positive, revolutionary and comprehensive concept which takes within its sweep all the communities in India following several religions. It is not negative in nature, it is not anti God or anti-religion; Indian secularism recognises the importance of religion in human life. It believes that no religion has the monopoly of philosophical wisdom. It allows all religions to discharge their function within their legitimate bonds. If citizens want to worship their God, Indian secularism recognises the need and right for such prayer and worship. It does not prescribe the practice of any one religion. Complete freedom of religion is assured in our constitution.
Secularism can also be non-religious, anti-religious and sceptical. Indian secularism, from this point of view is just non-religious. So long religious functions are held within its legitimate domain, Indian secularism is strictly neutral.
It is remarkable that though the word 'secular' and 'secularism is not mentioned in our constitution, it guarantees equality of all religion before law. In that respect our constitution is strictly and essentially founded on secular concept. Our constitution guaran tees fundamental rights of religious freedom. Our constitution makers were aware that religions as practised all over the world assume an organised communal form and sometimes this organisation may attempt to regulate socio-economic matters even. Such an attempt will not be tolerated by the Indian constitution.
Let us cite one instance. When the Hindu Code Bill was placed before parliament, considerable opposition was voiced by the conser vative section of the Hindu community. According to them, parliament was interfering with the age old provisions of the Vedas in matters of personal law. Parliament ignored the sentimental opposition of the conservative Hindu community and put the Hindu Code Bill on the statute book.
The enactment of the Hindu Code Bill is a triumph of Indian secu larism. It firmly established that personal law is a secular matter with which religion has nothing to do. Secular concept in India has become fully mature in the eyes of the world.
