Class 11 Political Science Notes Chapter 8 Secularism

The word ‘Dharma’ has been derived from Sanskrit refer to adopt along with the basic principle to do welfare of all.
Secularism refers equal respect for all religions, i.e. the state does not profess any religion and treats all the religions at par.
Originally, India was not declared a secular state, the word secular was added by the 42nd Amendment Act.
Secularism refers that political system and administration should be based upon a secular ideology to leave the task of coordination among the different religions and bring unity among them through voluntary social organisation.
Religion and beliefs are considered as a personal matter, hence, state should have no interference in it.
India is a secular state because India is impartial in religious matters, all citizens enjoy freedom to adopt any religion as per choice, no discrimination is made on the ground of religion. India has no state religion, religion is kept separate from politics, etc.
India used to believe since ancient times the nation of Sarva Dharm Sam Bhava (सर्व धर्म सम भाव ) because India respects all religions equally.
Hence, secular states are neither theocratic nor establish any religion.
Indian secularism can be criticized on the grounds of being anti-religions, imported from western culture, charge of minoritism, interventionist based on vote bank politics and it is considered to be an impossible project.