“What are the challenges to our cultural practices in the name of secularism?” – UPSC asks candidates to answer in 150 words
Some questions framed by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in the Civil Services Main Exam 2019 have turned controversial.
One such question was about an allegedly distorted question on secularism.
“Challenges to our cultural practices in the name of secularism”
The highly esteemed recruitment body, UPSC, entrusted with selecting candidates for top bureaucratic positions like IAS, IPS, IFS, etc. received flak from many quarters for asking the question “What are the challenges to our cultural practices in the name of secularism?” in General Studies Paper 1 of Civil Services Examination, conducted on 21-09-2019.
In Hindi, the question was: धर्मनिरपेक्षता के नाम पर हमारी सांस्कृतिक प्रथाओं के सामने क्या क्या चुनौतियाँ हैं (Dharma nirpekshta ke naam par hamari sanskritik prathao ke samne kya kya chunautiyan hain?)
Many aspirants felt surprised and disappointed to be asked to write against a core value of the Indian Constitution – secularism. The question came with prejudice that there are some or many challenges to our cultural practices in the name of secularism.
Unfortunately, UPSC didn’t phrase the question with any directives like ‘critically examine’, which should have been there – to present both sides, if it has.
Journalist, Ajaml Aramam strongly criticized the above question, even mentioning that this is the fall of the great Indian Civil Service. He was pointing fingers at the seemingly right-wing bias of the question.
“Steady GDP growth of India”
General Studies Paper 3, conducted on 22-09-2019, had another question that raised a few eyebrows. This was the question:
“Do you agree with the view that steady GDP growth and low inflation have left the Indian economy in good shape? Give reasons in support of your arguments. (Answer in 150 words)”
This question is too prejudged. It predisposes two ideas (1) India has steady GDP growth (2) India has low inflation. Aspirants were given only a choice to mention if they consider the Indian economy as in good shape or not and then give their arguments.
Well-read aspirants who know that Indian GDP growth was down to a 6-year low in Q1 of 2019 found this question strange.
However, these questions were exceptions; there were a lot of deep thought-provoking questions
After analyzing all papers of UPSC Mains 2019, I feel the above two questions were exceptions. Most of the other questions were meticulously crafted and spot-on.
You can read our analysis of the UPSC Question Papers (2019) from the below links:
- Essay Paper Analysis
- GS Paper 1 Analysis
- GS Paper 2 Analysis
- GS Paper 3 Analysis
- GS Paper 4 Analysis
UPSC has a high reputation for being unbiased and impartial in selection. In the same exam, this year, UPSC even asked a question in the Ethics Paper (General Studies Paper 4) to write about the consequences of this ‘politicization of bureaucracy.
Given a choice between Indian Culture and Secularism, how would you answer?
Commenting on the matter, Kannan Gopinathan – an IAS officer who quit the services recently over the clampdown in Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370, commented on Twitter: “Indian secularism is a positive concept, taking along and encouraging all the cultural practices while instilling a scientific temper against superstitions and harmful practices”, would have been the first sentence of my answer!”
“Indian secularism is a positive concept, taking along and encouraging all the cultural practices while instilling a scientific temper against superstitions and harmful practices.”, would have been the first sentence of my answer! https://t.co/MUsCYlh0OZ
— Kannan Gopinathan (@naukarshah) 22 September 2019
How would you answer the “Secularism Question”: The ClearIAS challenge to our readers
As a patriotic Indian, what is your opinion about the ‘Secularism Question’ asked in the UPSC Civil Services Exam?
Given a chance, how would you answer it?
Post your answers in about 150 words in the comment section below.
The best answers will be highlighted and rewarded.
Midhun P Varrier says
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution declares India as a Secular Republic, which means that secularism is one of the founding principles of the nation. As per various Supreme Court judgements, it is part of the basic structure of the Constitution. The Constitution makers of India saw Indian culture as a composite one with multicultural and plural ethos. The secularism of India is not anti religious or irreligious. It is the secular nature of the state which prevents one culture from dominating another. It supports pluralism.
Culture is a dynamic one. It changes with time. Some practices of Indian culture are superstitious and inhumane. The Indian state which follows principled distance from all religions, interferes when the practices or customs seem to infringe any rights of the individual. It also gives protection to minority culture and also promotes tribal languages and practices. So we can say that rather than being a challenge to the culture, the secular nature of India protects and promotes the culture. We should also remind that the secularism which India has adopted is not an imported one but which had a long history in India ‘s pluralism.
The Real Person!
The Real Person!
@ Midhun – Excellent. Well written. You not only explained the reality that culture changes with time but also the secular nature of India protects and promotes the culture. Brilliant.
Partha Sarathi Sarkar says
Religion is a term has been derived from the Latin word Religare to say as binding. India is a nation to create many religions from the aspect of several containing thought. In this case if all the people are to bind then a deliberate attempt to provide all the religions an equal position secularism is needed.
In this connection the very first chapter in the Indian Constitution namely Preamble has deeply greeted every religion as equal so the Indian secularism idea is different from the thought of Western which does not give religion any good position unless a revolt is occurring. So the visualization of secularism in India has been much institutionalized. So it’s citing rather the very basic of framing India as it is.
So in total if the religion is being considered as the entry point of Indian culture then secularism is a good help indeed. In Indian history many religious conflicts have occurred so secularism can mitigate the chance in further and the culture of love of Indian people will be stronger in this way.
The Real Person!
The Real Person!
@Partha – Thank you for expressing your opinion. However, you could have made your stand more clear with examples.
Guest 29 says
Indian culture by and large has been an example of diversity .For ages our culture has been represented worldwide as unity in diversity.
Secularism as principle was introduced into Indian Constitution during 1976 , 42nd amendment.
Secularism means distance from religion , though it’s still debatable if it meant favouring all religions equally or none of them .
Indian culture has grown over last few decades ,we have adopted western scientific methods to understand the world around us and constantly evolve .
Due to secularism – we have kept distance from religion due to which people of certain relegions have not attained required level of understanding of modern science hence fail to adapt to changing trends in Indian culture .
Conclusion
Secularism should give way for mutual understanding by and large in Indian ethos that can give more space for individual learning so that he understands and evolve within dynamics of Indian culture.
The Real Person!
The Real Person!
@Guest 29 – Thank you for expressing your opinion.
Sreekar says
Good answer
Anirudha Dilip Kulkarni says
Indian secularism differs in many terms from that of western idea of secularism, especially in its principle of positive interference in all religious and equality of all religions. On the other hand western countries are ignorant of religion.
But many recent arguments against secularism has raised questions of its impact on culture.
Challenges to our cultural practices in the name of secularism:
– India is diverse country, and each community may have culture that may create antagonism among each other. In such scenario support by political parties to one community in the name of secularism creates negative image of secularism.
– Example of this is cow slaughter by non hindu communities which is ban in Hinduism.
– Another example is the Ayodhya dispute, state, as per constitution, has to interfere. But support to anyone case is step against other.
– Many north eastern state has tribal group which dont want government interference in. But same states also have people who dont have same culture and want government to take proactive step to aggressively invest in north east.
Conclusion:
Though the Indian side of secularism raises question on this, we must also realize that this idea has United a country as diverse as ours.
The problems as mentioned above must only be seen as minor setbacks.
We can argue against above arguments on the basis of lack of scientific temperament.
No principe can be 100 percent right, but some have better chances of success than others
Ritika Debnath says
Compared with the western world, Indian secularism lies on the base of complete dissociation of state from religion and thus, respecting all religions equally. The idea of secularism as enshrined in our constitution reminds us of the approach of positive secularism.
However, being the land of huge cultural diversity, accomodating all differences and walking hand in hand sometimes becomes difficult such as:
1. Difficult to enforce uniform civil code as different groups have different social practices.
2. The ban on beef consumption was yet another dimension where secularism took over food habits of groups who consume it.
3. Increasing cow vigilantism and cases of mob lynching because of intolerance of one cultural group towards another
4. The policy of imposing Hindi on non-Hindi speaking states also hampers a part of their culture.
We do belong to a land where Diwali, Christmas, Eid, Lohri etc are all celebrated within the same geographical boundary. But the growing bond between religion and politics also cannot be overruled. The state needs to completely distance itself from any particular religion. Our constitution enshrines equal protection and promotion to all religions. However, growing fundamentalism poses a threat to it. Positive secularism has helped a land of such diversity thrive for 70 odd years. It has the power to lead us towards overall development. As Gandhiji said, “religion is my personal affair, the state has nothing to do with it. It’s role is to make a welfare state.”
ROOPA KRISHNA says
In Fundamental Rights of our Indian Constitution from Article 25 to Article 28 deal with freedom of religion.Freedom of promotion of one’s religion,freedom to manage religious affairs,freedom from taxation of a religion,freedom from attending religious instruction.But their freedom should not hurt other religious sentiments and not against unity of India.
The concept of Secularism was implicitly present in Indian Constitution. The 42nd Constitutional amendment added word Secularism to Preamble.Secularism in Indian context means all religions in India have the same status and support from government.
India is know for it’s unity in diversity.The point of contention is that in the name of equality,fundamental rights state is involving into religious affairs.For example
Entry of women of age 10-50 years into sabarimala religious convention vs equality
Ban of Triple Talaq religious practice vs discrimination.
Article 44 of Indian constitution there should be Uniform Civil Code for all religions.
Secularism is not posing as a danger to cultural diversity because State is involving only in such case where the religious practices are against Basic Structure and Fundamental rights Right to equality,freedom,life and liberty.State governs according to the Constitution.Constitution i nothing but ideals and aspirations of people.
Secularism concept is preventing the majoritarianism of any religion in India.So secularism in a way conserving the cultural diversity.State is following neutrality in religious matters i.e no discrimination towards any religion
Medappa says
The Indian idea of secularism,as opposed to western political thought,advocates a fair and equal treatment of all religions,whereby the state promotes and nurtures all variants of faiths and beliefs(as also non-belief)of its citizens.
Since the State plays an active part in regulating our cultural life,with the stated policy of secularism,challenges to inherent cultural practices(especially of minorities) are bound to arise:
a)Demand for a Uniform Civil Code:Though the espoused aim by the vocal majority is harmonization of various personal laws,minority communities fear the debasement of their unique cultural practices.
b)Judicial interventions:The judgments annulling Triple Talaq,promoting temple entry for women have been landmark in the spirit of promoting equality for the disadvantaged sections. However,some believe that the courts are meddling in the sphere of religion.
c)Assault on minorities:
1)The Directive principles of State policy call for a ban on cow slaughter.However, this doesn’t authorise self-styled “gau-rakshaks” to lynch Muslims for transporting cattle.
2)Calls for ban on loud speakers at Madrasas,or at temples,or religious processions.
3)Regulation of finances and functioning of religious trusts and endowments.
The noble aim of secularism must not be conflated to infringe upon the rights of minority communities.Instead,the State must ensure people of all faiths must cohere and live without fear in India’s multi-cultural society.
Satyadeep Kar says
India being such a vastly diverse country with many different religions, it was necessary for our lawmakers to declare India a secular state by mentioning it in the constitution itself. This would ensure that the state doesn’t get involved in any religious practices which would harm the interests of other sections or question its integrity and it has been ever since upheld by the state.
However, in this context it is necessary to understand that there is a fine line between what we term as Hindu practices and Indian cultural practices. Almost all the Indian cultural practices are seen as hardcore Hindu practices. But, Indian culture dates back to the prehistoric era whereas most of the identified religions of the day came up in the last 2000 years. So, while it is a flawed idea to look at every practice through the lens of religion, it is also necessary to understand that there are some aspects which reflected the great culture of this country. For example, some people claim yoga to be a Hindu practice. Similarly, many term Sanskrit as a Hindu language. Consequently, they raise their voices when the state tries to promote them at a national or international level. But we must also understand that a form of exercise or a language cannot be termed religious rather they form the basis of any society worldwide just like in India.
This poses a great challenge to the state to form a balance between secularism and upholding the great culture of this nation. On one hand, the state needs to uphold the values of secularism and on the other hand, it needs to protect and promote the culture of this nation. This calls for a better understanding and acceptance from people to look at the Indian cultural practices as the basis of the Indian society and not as religious.
The food, language, dance etc. of any society cannot be and should not be termed religious. There are certain uniqueness associated with every culture and the various practices of India should be termed as Indian culture only and not Hindu culture. The wide acceptance of Yoga and celebration of the International Yoga Day is a good example which showcases this inclusiveness.
Prakhar Rustagi says
India is a multi diverse nation, as part of the national movement which was also a civil rights movement , secularism became a constituent part of our constitution highlighted under articles 25-30 as fundamental rights.
However, indian secularism is a debatable concept as it is different from western notion, giving state opportunity to intervene in religious and cultural practices for social transformation as done in cases of triple talaq and sabrimala recently.
Thus, it provides a challenge to individual religious and cultural practices as follows :
– violation of freedom of practice and management of religion under article 35 and 26
– affecting and infringement of right of community and their views
However, despite these challenges indian secularism has allowed the state to end discriminatory practices undermining human dignity. eg : untouchability, women rights in triple talaq and sabrimala.
As discussed, indian secularism is a positive concept and is a part of basic structure of the constitution. However, there should be absolute prudence to use it in a non partisan manner by the state to ensure social transformation as envisaged by Granville Austin with respect to indian constituion and not as a tool for appeasement.
Dali Chatterjee says
Culture is age old traditions and habits taking a concrete form.Every religion/region has their own shaped out culture.
Secularism , on the other hand is a relatively newer term arising in the western countries with a largely homogeneous culture.Here, the state does not patronize any particular religion.
However, Indian secularism adds intervention in religion for the better good.
People have argued that secularism has hampered the concept and functioning of culture.
Eg:-Sabarimala in Kerala:-Following the SC orders, the temple door have been thrust open to women of menstruating ages, allegedly affecting the culture of the region.
But it is often seen that culture is not all good. Culture is nothing but the unscientific culmination of majority views thereby being regressive in nature. If culture was deemed to be more important than secularism, sati, untouchability would still exist in the name of an inhumane intangible entity that is culture.
So, when culture and secularism has a fight, secularism wins because it stands for all, not one.
And isn’t secularism our culture as well? Akbar, Harsha, -all had their own religions but chose to respect all. So when secularism seems to contradict culture-we should know that with secularism pulling out the bad, it is our culture getting richer, not poorer.
Abhijit Parida says
Secularism is a concept, which is coined in the preamble Indian constitution whereas culture of India is dynamic in nature. Secularism is a believe whereas Indian culture is the diversified one.
Culture depends upon religious, languages and geography of a state. More over superstition and backwardness of society also influence the culture. So nothing wrong in saying that Indian culture itself the most mixed culture as Indian inhabitants in the world. When we tense to look behind the history of Indian culture starting from vedic period to modern India, we found that it was vulnerable as we were invaded by many foreign powers.
Secularism doesn’t mean to be irreligious or not to believe in religion. It means avoidance of domination of any religion on other one.
Secular India is necessary to bifurcate the gaps between Indian culture and to protect the rights of minorities of India. So that they can participate in the mainstream of developing nation. We should keep in mind that the world’s largest democracy can be stabilized around of secularism.
Saurabh Bhatia says
Secularism is a part of the basic structure of our constitution and is also reflected through its various provisions.
Secularism as a term originated in Europe, where it meant a complete and total separation of the “Church and the State”. This led to the state not recognizing any religious beliefs and making it a negative concept.
Indian secularism, however, is a positive concept and it is based on “Sarva Dharma Sambhava”, where all religions are respected, while state interfering to shun religious practices which are against fundamental rights. However, secularism in India has led to the challenges in our traditional culture:
1) Political leaders and policy makers have unknowingly resorted to the European definition of secularism, which has led to derision of all religions
2) The “positive intervention” by the state to correct religious practices which are inhuman or unethical have also led to disturbance in the age old traditions and culture
3) In the name of secularism, at times the political class resorts to appeasing one community as against other, which leads to imbalance in the social structures that existed
Secularism does impact our “culture” in some ways. However, there is a realization that culture is not a static entity, but it changes with time. With modernization and globalization, we have been exposed to various ideas. True secularism would be take up the good ideas and reform our society to be in tune with the modern concepts of human rights and dignity.
Thus even though appeasement and being irreligious has a genuine impact on our culture, but making positive changes in those cultural aspects which are not in tune with the human dignity are the need of the hour
SUKANYA Ramesh says
Secularism means the right to follow and practice any religion of ones wish and will. Article 25 to 28 of Indian constitution talks about the Right to religion. Securalism was initially not the part of preamble however was added by 42nd amendment, 1976. One of the reasons was to avoid the communal violence based on religion.
Cultural practices are various norms, traditions and culture that the individuals follow on the basis of religion. For instance a symbol of Swastik or Holy Cross, dance form, sati system, polygamy, holy treatment of cow etc can be examples of cultural practices.
Some of the challenges to our cultural practices in the name of securalism are mentioned below.
1. Violence against women in the following cases.
A. Polygamy practice in Muslim culture which leads to inequality of treatment on women by Muslim men
B. Triple Talaq however scrapped in India now was violence
C. Honor killing in certain communities. Though every citizen has a right to liberty many people are being killed also also being mob lynched for being in love relation or following Western culture dressing and pub culture. We see multiple cases of such mob lynching happening very frequently in the name of culture and religion.
D. Rape, Gang rape on minority communities. Kathau gang rape case is a classic example in which this heineous act was performed in order to drive away that community from their land.
2. Mob lynching on beef eaters, sellers and ban on beef consumption.
Cow is considered to be holy in Hindu community however, not in other communities. Though every citizen has a right to live the way he/she wants and eat what he/she wants, there are lot attacks on the beef eating community in the name of Hindu religion and culture.
3. Certain communities against the implementation of uniform civil code of laws.
Article 44 of Directive principles of state policy talks about implementing uniform civil codes, however because of various culture, tradition and religion this is becoming impossible to implement. Certain communities feel that their right to follow their religious culture is being violated. For example, if there is uniform civil code, practice of polygamy which is the culture of Muslim community will become an offence which violates their religious rights.
Conclusion.
Though India is a secular state with vast set of religions and cultures there should be a feeling of “Indianism” and not bases on religion like “Hinduism”, “Christianism”, “Jainism” or “Muslimism” etc.
Since in India religious laws secede over state laws and the positive concept of state not getting involved in religious matters, the matter of violence and communal attacks should be considered as a serious concern of the nation and plan to control this communal violence and educate the people and try to bring in the uniform civil codes as per Article 44.
The Real Person!
The Real Person!
@Sukanya – Good attempt and some valid points. However, not all examples seem to fit the case.
Chandini P Raj says
The most challenging task insofar as “cultural practices” are concerned, due to secularism, is that the two concepts are being seen as distinct from each other in the daily lives of a common man. Constitutionally, “Secularism” refers to the duty of the state to refrain from sponsoring one religion over another and to refrain from showing bias towards one religion as against others. The target in the conception of “cultural practices v. secularism” is a common man, who identifies immediately with local surroundings and culture. Cultural practices and religions borne out of India have largely propagated diversity and equality. True, there were mistakes committed on the path of evolution of our culture- casteism, untouchability, extreme reliance on superstititons are a few examples. But, we cannot forget that there were people whom we celebrate today for having fought against repressive ideas- Kanakadasa, Basava, Mirabai, Sant Ravidas are a few examples. This implies that there was scope for debate and to channelize thoughts towards equality, acceptibility and tolerance.
When we say “Culture” we must take care not to paint India in one color. While Poleramma, Dilli Polasi, Mutyalamma, Doddamma may be unheard of in North India, people in the south perform harsh penances and rituals to please these goddesses, who are forms of Parvati. While some communities may preach against using Garlic and Onions in food, there are multiple communities and religions which sacrifice animals and serve the meat in their festivals. As a child, I have witnessed instances where Muslim priests are consulted by parents of a sick child, requesting the former to tie the sacred amulet to the child. Such was the mutual respect, tolerance, recognition and acceptability which is soon fading away. People blinded by emotion and passion cannot reason certain things with logic. For such, time is the best medicine.
Medha Mishra says
India is a land of diverse cultures. It has survived the test of time to showcase its unity in diversity. Our Constitution makers wanted independent India to be a land of peace and harmony among different communities. They didn’t want the horrors of partition to be repeated. Thus, articles 25-28 of the Constitution guarantee right to freedom of religion.Additionally to emphasize upon the secular ideals of the Constitution, the 42nd Amendment Act has added the word “secular” to the Preamble.
Thus unlike the Western concept of negative secularism where there is a strict separation between State and religion, the Indian concept requires State to treat all religions equally and make positive interventions to protect them from prejudice and ensure that their personal laws do not result in any derogatory practice.
However, there have some instances when secularism has been invoked in a way that limits the exercise of cultural practices by different communities. Some of the challenges posed by secularism against such practices are as follows-
1) Uniform Civil Code- The Supreme Court has repeatedly asked the Central Government to frame a Uniform Civil Code for the entire country in keeping up with the spirit of Article 44 of the Constitution. However, minorities fear that it will go against what their personal laws prescribe.
2) The Sabarimala issue- A Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court ruled in a majority verdict that denying women of a certain age group entry into temples is in violation of articles 14,19 and 21 of the Constitution. The lone dissent given by Justice Indu Malhotra was that this practice has been going on for generations and people should be given free space to practice their faith according to their norms and customs. The temple authorities say that the verdict will go against their centuries old tradition.
3) Triple talaq – It has been made a non-bailable and cognisable offence with a jail term of 3 years. But some groups allege that the bill is targeted towards Muslim men as desertion of wife by husband in other religions is not considered a criminal offence. Also the penalty prescribed is stricter than other more serious offences.
4) Many times people tend to ignore the restrictions imposed by “public order, health and morality” in article 25 while interpreting secularism. This fact can be cited from the increased cases of hate speeches, riots and mob violence.
Conclusion- In framing laws and policies, all stakeholders should be invited to give their views. Minorities should be assured that their personal laws are not threatened by ensuring that reformations within religion are only targeted towards derogatory practices and not the genuine ones. Law and order should be made stricter to ensure that people of one religion do not practice violence against other religions in the name of freedom religion. In that direction, mob lynching should be made a separate offence.
Krishnan says
*Secularism by its definition means complete separation of State from religion,in this context it posses no challenge to cultural/religious practices.
*Indian secularism comes with a modification that state can interfere within religious affairs to uphold the constitutional spirit.
*This interference nature of Indian secularism is viewed to posses challenges to cultural practices in cultural point of view,but not in humanitarian point of view.
EXAMPLE,
1. SABARIMALA TEMPLE CASE,
SC by allowing temple entry of women has upheld the constitutional values of equality,but in cultural point of view people of Kerala view this as challenge their to continuing cultural legacy.
2 .TRIPLE TALAQ CASE,
Here individual rights and dignity have been favoured than the cultural/traditional practice.In cultural point of view its seen as an act of distorting uniqueness of a culture.
3. Banning practices like human sacrifice,under the authority of constitution is displayed by cultural point of view as an act challenging peoples belief system.
4. Banning practices such as witchhunting, displayed by cultural point of view as an act of contempt to spiritual purity.
Thus Indian secularism posses few challenges to cultural practices,only for the protection and welfare of its people.
The Real Person!
The Real Person!
@ Krishnan – Thank you for the opinion. You have tried to give examples. However, they don’t fit properly in this context. Of course, there is a conflict with culture in Sabarimala Issue. However, the conflict is rather with Gender Equality and Modern Thinking than with Secularism. Points (3) and (4) in fact, contradicts your initial stand.
durga says
Secularism means the principle of separation of state from religious affairs. It is enacted in our constitution through the 42nd amendment act of 1976 during Mrs.IndiraGandhi’s period. Our constitution makers doesnt feel it is necessary to include the Secular characteristics even after the partition,because they felt it is difficult to separate the religion from politics and at the same time “It is the duty of the state to secure for its citizens unifrom civil code throughout the territory of india” which is the 44th article under Part4 Directive principles of state policy.
Our constitution makers thought india shold not divided further on the basis of religion so they enshrined the article 44 in our constitution,where it considers all the citizens are same irrespective of religion,caste and cultural practice.
Indian secularism is a positive aspect ,where the government actively involved in curbing the unlawfull practices like sati.But the mob lynchings happening in the name of religion and cow vigilantism needs to handled very sensitively.India is secular country still our legislators enact a separate laws for hindus like Hindu Marriage Act and for Muslims The Muslim Women Protection Bill etc.It can be considered as a milestone,but on the other hand Supreme court evicts the scheduledtribes and other forest dwelling communities.
India is vast in its cultures and practices and it should be encouarged to promote its values.The domination of western cultures and concept can be a threat.The concept of Globalisation can be seen as a threat to our cultures.
In this sense the judiciary nor the legislators should not intervene in the cultural practices in the name of secularism.Article 9 proposes freedom of thought,liberty and religion should be promoted.Culture and practices grow along with individuals.There should not be any restrictions for promoting one’s culture and practices,unless if it is of negative concept.
The Real Person!
The Real Person!
@ Durga – Thank you for posting your opinion.
Chanda Kumari says
Secularism means right to follow your religion which is fundamental right secured by article 19 and article 25 to 28 in Indian constitution. This is so because india since ancient time was a land of freedom,freedom to follow your religion, freedom to follow culture and their traditions. This is the reason with every few kilometres we can see the language , cultural stories and culinary changing.
Earlier we had only hinduism ,but due to monopoly of brahmans over sanskrit texts and casteism Jainism and Buddhism developed and new culture and practices came.
Presently, there is xenophobia and white supremacy around as in new zealand mosque shooting.secularism gives us power to accept whereas culture gives us method to celebrate our uniqueness. Both have their own importance thats why our constitution empowered both of them.
Todays younger generation dont follow their customs as their parents do due to the high time demanding working condition and competition but they are more evolved in terms of their acception of diff. People and education and science have made them to disown superstitious and degrading practices.
Our traditional practices can be more protected when given awareness that they are not out moded and included in school plays and skites and exposure to perform since early ages of children.
The Real Person!
The Real Person!
@ Chanda – We liked this statement “secularism gives us power to accept whereas culture gives us method to celebrate our uniqueness. Both have their own importance thats why our constitution empowered both of them.”
Radha nandan jha says
Secularism as basic feature and foundation of Indian society and constitution is the reflection of positive concept of “SARVA DHARMA SADBHAVA”.
Challanges to Indian culture:-
1) Freedom to profess and propagate religion is often misused for conversion .
2)Politicising religion for electoral gain infuse social division and rift , which defames religiosity.
3) Secularism provides for inter religious parity to ensure equality which is seen as dominating act of one over other.
4) Secularism provides for no state religion which is matter of concern for communalists and it leads to insecurity and coercion.
Secularism is the ethos of Indian democracy. By allaying these fears among section of society, we can make our democracy more vibrant and healthy.
The Real Person!
The Real Person!
@ Radha – Excellent thoughts! You bought a new dimension to the discussion. Points (1) and (2) were really good. Yes, you have highlighted the misuse of freedom given to religions.
Nikhil says
The word secularism in the Indian Constitution was done to instill the scientific temper in the people of India to protect the Indian culture from falling prey to the communal forces.
The secularism is not the misnomer rather its usage by our political class to garner votes and ultimately power.
Secularism gave a new weapon to our political class to divide people on the lines of religions as Colonial powers did through Divide and Rule.
The entities of India I.e. pluralism, diversity is still intact and thriving.
The term secularism is the bedrock of our Indian society which was down by the likes Raja Ram,vivekanand, Gandhi Ji and many more.
The threat to our culture emerges not from secularism but from its wrong interpretation.
We as Indians have always embraced people from all walks of life irrespective of their differences. Let’s make a New India which gives it citizens equal footing to each and every one .
We must use it as a binding force rather weapon to make it a resilient against any negative approach.
The Real Person!
The Real Person!
@ Nikhil – “The threat to our culture emerges not from secularism but from its wrong interpretation.” Good point!
venu madhav says
the term secularism itself means religion should not influence or involved in any organisation or government decisions. However for country like India with vast cultural heritage and religions it could me next to impossible for any government to not to be involved and any religion while taking any decision, but as mentioned in our constitution it is described positively saying sarva dharma sadbhavana which means all religions are equal and should be treated equally, this is where the real problem for culture arises.
As laws of each religion is different and punishment is also different. here the equality is not attained fully, like for muslims eating beef during festival is a holy thing but for hindus killing a cow is unjustifiable crime, in this case what can indian judicial system do to help either of these people if the court of law give any order to ban beef or make killing cows it will be detrimental to any one of the cultures. like this many other cultural practices are not acceptable by people of other cultures, and they know that court also cannot help them in these cases, as the constitution provides everyone their right to choose their own religion,
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@ Venu – Thank you for expressing your opinion.
Harshal Pathak says
Secularism, in the context of Indian Constitution, is the guardian of all culture rather than a stranger to them. It ensures state’s involvement to maintain checks & balances on the cultural practices, so that, in practice of a cultural norm the right to life & liberty of a citizen does not get compromised.
This adaptive version of secularism fits most aptly in the Indian community considering the cultural diversity, where mere disassociation of state from religion would result in clashes & imposition of one religion or culture onto another, which can still be observed at certain times despite prevalent checks.
Thus the challenges imposed by the state to the cultural practices are targeted to protect and empower Indian society rather than to curb its cultural liberty.
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@ Harshal – Thank you for posting your opinion.
SHIVAM SHARMA says
Secularism though evolved to establish a harmonious relationship between state and religion, has became a source of challenge to many of our cultural practices, depending upon which interpretation of secularism do we subscribe to.
Secularism, as a concept is multi-dimensional in nature. It has been interpreted differently across time and space. Westen model of secularism completely delineates the state from religion and believes that these two should be isolated from each other, while Indian model of secularism is inclusive one where we allow religion to play a constructive role in polity as it is based on Gandhian principles of reinforcing unity and harmony among the people which he even demonstrated during the national movement.
In the background on secularism, there was a fear of majoritarianism of one religion over others. That means secularism as a principle was a guarantee to the minority rights and interests by the state. But many have read secularism that the state should not work for the majority religion (i.e. Hinduism in Indian scenario). This when applied in the practical sense contradicts our cultural practices of taking all together, nit just the weak or strong, both actually.
Hence, actually it is not the secularism but its narrow meaning which challenges our cultural practices.
So, in this discourse on secularism, what is required is the broader interpretation of secularism envisioned by Gandhiji which will run in consonance with our cultural practices.
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@ Shivam – Thank you for expressing the opinion. However, you could have given examples of the challenges to Indian culture, if any.
गौरव चौहान says
भारत मे धर्मनिरपेक्षता एक सकारात्मक रूप में लिया गया तत्व । धर्मनिरपेक्ष राज्य के रूप में किसी धर्म के प्रति पक्षधर नीति नहीं अपनाएगा। भारत मे सर्व धर्म समभाव की अवधारणा को अपनाया गया है ।
जब हम बात करते हैं कि क्या एक धर्मनिरपेक्ष राष्ट्र होने के बावजूद भारत की सांस्कृतिक प्रथाओं पर क्षति पहुंचेगी । तो हमारा ध्यान यूनिफार्म सिविल कोड पर जाना चाहिए ।
भारत मे किसी धर्म को महत्व न दिया जाए सभी को समान दृष्टि से देखा जाए इसके लिए संविधान में नीति निदेशक तत्व में धर्म निरपेक्ष राज्य के रूप में भारत के लिए एक समान सिविल सहिंता की परिकल्पना की गई है ।
हम जानते हैं प्रत्येक धर्म की अपनी कुछ मूलभूत विशेषताएं और सांस्कृतिक प्रभाव हैं उदाहरण के लिए विवाह तलाक उत्तराधिकार के नियम ।
देश मे यूनिफॉर्म सिविल कोड होने से इस सांस्कृतिक विरासत पर चोट पहुंचेगी । विभिन्न धर्म वर्षों से अपनी विरासत को सांस्कृतिक प्रभाव को बनाए रखें हैं । एक धर्मनिरपेक्ष राष्ट्र के रूप में यूनिफॉर्म सिविल कोड लागू कर दिया जाना उनकी इस संस्कृति के लिए खतरा हो सकता है ।
हम जानते हैं कि विधि आयोग यूनिफॉर्म सिविल कोड की व्यवस्था को यथावत रखने की सिफारिश कर चुका है। इसलिए धर्मनिरपेक्ष राष्ट्र के रूप में भारत को ऐसे अनुप्रयोगों से बचने की आवश्यकता है जो संस्कृति के लिए खतरा जान पड़ असन्तुष्टि का भाव उत्पन्न करेगा ।
Nithin says
Article 15 of the Indian Constitution paves the way for growth and happiness among our society. Secularism in India is clearly stated as equal respect for all religions and State has no discriminating role in religious affairs unless rule of law demands. But historical context always termed Secularism as departure from religion and general conception evolved to portray Secularism as a hindrance for cultural diversity in India that is Bharat.
Truly India is Bharat?there are existing two cultural entities in a geographically defined landscape,we often call it a sovereign republic. Here Dr B R Ambedkar emphatically established the dictum for future Indian Union,he said-Indian Constitution would be the sole document to evolve equality not any ancient texts. And here in Bharat Hidimbi, a demon in Mahabharata worshiped by some people. Supreme Court clearly said Agamas are the documents for religious affairs and State must restrain itself from appointments(T.N case). Why these events happening in India?
We respect all religions. The word was not explicitly used in original constitution. When it used ,a Pandora’s box has opened and unnecessarily the term dragged into unhealthy debates. Let it be there or not,the point is how We the People live in harmony, then the expression India that is Bharat gets meaning.
Mohit says
Secularism is a buzz word in the recent past. With numerous interpretations, Secularism in general means every religious practice can be practiced with free will.
Everyone in India is free to practice their set of faith and it has been protected under our Constitution.
Challenges:
1. Misinterpret the concept of secularism which is causing the division between the religious and secular.
2. Secularism used for promotion and not in good faith.
3. Negative Preaching of Religious Practices.
4. In short, every religious group is having equal opportunity india. However, initiatives to make one above the other will create challenges in a diverse cultural society.
Way Forward.
1. Communicating Gandhi Ji’s vision of secularism in the community is crucial.
2. Initiatives like Ek Bharat Shresth
bharat an initiative towards unity is Commendable.
3.
ruchi negi says
Secularism the term has a wide interpretation. According to western thought secularism is absence of any religion in state;s affairs whereas according to Indian constitution secularism means equal protection, status and opportunities to all the religion. To maintain secularism in a country having so many religions is although a bit difficult but still India was successful to do so since Independence. Although India was always secular since Vedic period but as the Verna system evolve with time it poses threat to the concept of secularism. Hence our Constitution maker understood this need and they designed the constitution in such a way where they have made provisions for all the religions, communities and languages to protect their heritage and culture. And with time the word secularism was added in the preamble in 1976 by 42nd C.A. Although there is so much diversity in India but still the constitution has provisions to protect the culture and practices of every religion and race. With time the politicians had tried a lot to bring some appeasement policy to a particular region but even this could not violate the secularism nature of Indian Constitution. The most important organ of democracy i.e., Judiciary always tried to maintain the secular fabric of Indian society by giving its verdict in different cases.It only raise its voice against those particular practices which violates the fundamental rights of a particular community and harms the scientific temperament of the law. Hence it can be concluded that there was although many challenges to the cultural practices of secularism but Indian secularism is a positive concept which treats all regions equally and has all legal provisions to protect their culture,language and practices without any discrimination.So Indian Constitution in itself has always maintained its secularism concept positively.
Chanda Kumari says
Thanku
But is my answer irrelevant as others have written differently.
What i have understood is why our culture ,traditions are not followed and the reason is secularism…i ewe are accepting every thing nd not. Following our culture conservatively .
And so my doubt is everyone has written about conversion..politics and threat to secularism..
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@Chanda: Your answer is not irrelevant. However the core area of the question was not touched properly. In fact, nobody has written a convincing answer about the challenges to the culture. That itself raises another question – is our culture challenged because of secularism?
PAG says
Challenges to our cultural practices in the name of secularism
Secularism is equal respect to all religions. Both European and Indian secularism upheld this. The only difference lies when there is a thick and thin line of difference between state and religion in European and Indian secularism respectively.
Secularism in India is practised from olden times. But over the years it has been seen that secularism is seen in a negative way by the people. This has led to emergence of debates surrounding secularism and its consequences.
1) Secular India envisages Uniform Civil Code.(Article 44). This has been widely seen as an attempt to degrade importance of religion over law
2) Sabrimala, Triple Talaq has allowed state to interfere and stop practises which affect gender equality. The whole issue has been seen with one lens of undermining religions in garb of secularism and modern ethos
3) Ban of Burqa in Europe – No showing of symbols associated in public is in lines with European secularism emphasising equality to all religions.
Secularism upheld equality, reformation and harmonious coexistence. But when these principles is viewed in a negative context, it is seen as threat/ challenge to cultural practises
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@ PAG – One of the nearest answers so far. So, @PAG – how do you view Secularism? A positive concept or a negative concept?
Anany Saxena says
Secularism highlights upon the principle of mutual tolerance towards other religions and a sense of comprehension for the feelings of the practitioners of a particular religion. Being secular, makes a particular country diverse in its culture. But, in recent times the concept of secularism has not went down well with the people owing to their incapacity to change the perspective with which they see secularism. Whenever the government tries to talk of uniform civil code, that highlights on the soul of secularism, the uproar starts to prevail against the cultural practices of the affected religions.
In the context of practices which deteriorates the diverse cultural heritage of a country, the weapon of secularism is used to impose a ban on it.
Therefore, secularism posts challenges to the orthodox cultural practices which make the society hollow from inside. Thus culture and secularism go hand in hand with each other but, the impact one term has on the other depends upon the situation under consideration.
sp says
The word Secularism, which itself faces many opposition to explicitly finds a place in constitution, has been added by 42nd constitutional amendment act.
India is a society having people from multi cultural, multi religious ideologies, in which their can be some instances where the practices of some community can effect the sentiment of other community. In this scenario the incorporation of the word Secularism makes our country secular state constitutionally which neither promotes any religion nor opposes any religion.
But there can be some policies, taken in the name of secular state (taken by the country’s representative which ultimately belongs or promote some religion in one way or the other) which can affects one’s cultural practices.
In this particular scenario the ultimate harm is to the secularism itself. Mere the presence of secular word can not protects the cultural values of country’s people.
So there are not direct challenges which our cultural activities facing in the name of secularism but there are some one sided cultural activities which ultimately harming the secular fabric of our counrty.
Riyaz says
The term secularism refers to the withering away of religious dominance in the social, political, economical spheres of life. This concept of secularism was adopted in the constitution in our Preamble, Fundamental Rights to religion and Fundamental Duties. This secularism however throws certain challenge to our cultural practices.
1. The traditional Indian society lived in villages and Hindus came together to worship their local diety called Kuladeiva. But with secularism people not only pray to their local diety but also not participate in the social gathering.
2. With increasing cosmopolitan lifestyle people take to Western food habits of eating beef, pork,etc for instance McDonald beef burgers in US and other European countries.
3. One of the important principles of secularism is to hide your religious symbols in your clothing. But this renders our traditional practices of clothing. E.g. Muslims wear skull cap and Sikhs wear turban and keep kirpan.
Indian society from time immemorial lived in unity with diversity irrespective of the major religions. But this western, elite given concept of secularism deprives of our traditional cultural practices as mentioned above.
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@ Riyaz – Is secularism entirely a foreign concept?
Manikandan S S says
Indian secularism is a positive concept which thrives to deal with religions in the equidistant manner and gives equal treatment to plural culture and multi religious society of India . In which state intervenes whenever there is threat to democracy, public life , sovereignty etc by the religious and cultural practices. Indian secularism is evolved from its own history and thus made its entry into the constitution and SC too time and again mentioned it forms the basic structure of constitution. Coming to the cultural practices , Indian society is one of the most diverse culture and in the past since independence , gov abolished and put restrictions to superstitious beliefs and practices in our culture like untouchability through article 17 , sati , dowry etc constitution through article 14 provides equality and through article 15 prohibits discriminatory practices in the name caste , religion , sex . At the same time , constitution provides right to free profession , practice and propagation of religion through its article 25 . Thereby Secularism is a guiding principle to unite and strengthen the multi religious and diverse culture by weeding out discriminatory practices from it . In this Indian secularism is promoting our cultural practices and it is only a challenge to superstitious and inhumane practices thriving in our culture and setting an example for future generations and future world to inspire from our culture
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@ Manikandan – Well written. So your opinion is that Indian Secularism is a positive concept, and the challenges raised by it is only against the negative aspects of Indian Culture. Are we right?
Ritika Debnath says
Compared with the western world, Indian secularism lies on the base of complete dissociation of state from religion and thus, respecting all religions equally. The idea of secularism as enshrined in our constitution reminds us of the approach of positive secularism.
However, being the land of huge cultural diversity, accomodating all differences and walking hand in hand sometimes becomes difficult such as:
1. Difficult to enforce uniform civil code as different groups have different social practices.
2. The ban on beef consumption was yet another dimension where secularism took over food habits of groups who consume it.
3. Increasing cow vigilantism and cases of mob lynching because of intolerance of one cultural group towards another
4. The policy of imposing Hindi on non-Hindi speaking states also hampers a part of their culture.
We do belong to a land where Diwali, Christmas, Eid, Lohri etc are all celebrated within the same geographical boundary. But the growing bond between religion and politics also cannot be overruled. The state needs to completely distance itself from any particular religion. Our constitution enshrines equal protection and promotion to all religions. However, growing fundamentalism poses a threat to it. Positive secularism has helped a land of such diversity thrive for 70 odd years. It has the power to lead us towards overall development. As Gandhiji said, “religion is my personal affair, the state has nothing to do with it. It’s role is to make a welfare state.”
Ritika Debnath says
@Clearias.. Some of the answers from yesterday have not been reviewed yet. Could you please revert on it?
Laxman B says
Context: India is a diverse country with its rich cultural and customary precedent. By keeping in this mind founding fathers of our constitution espoused idea of “Secularism” in the constitution through 42nd Amendment 1976. Secularism in India means – Neutrality of the state in the matters of religion OR providing same level of playing field to all religions in social spheres.
Body:
“Challenges to cultural practices under name of secularism”
1. Excessive state interventions in the matters of religions.
2. Over – Glorification of one’s own customary laws and religious practices led to usurpation of level playing field of other religions.
3. Infestation of extreme religious fundamentalism by religious groups and traditional institutions in religious matters led to communalisation in secular sphere.
* Article 25 to 28 gives rights to every religious institution as well as every individual to manage, profess and practice religious affairs. But the counter measures taken by states against religious practice often seen by particular community as an attack on their beliefs and customs this perpetuate sense of alienation.
*Judiciary itself as final interpreter, must take reference of historical precedent before giving final judgments to situational matters in balanced way.
“Court of law can’t invoke notions of rationality in the matters of religion” – Justice Indu Malhotra (Sabrimala Verdict)
*Some religious groups giving excessive importance to their religious custom’s, values by cost of other religions – by asserting idea of “Hindu Rashtra” under the name of secularism.
Conclusion:
“I do not want to see, India to be a majority of any one community or religion i.e. Hindu majority, Majority of Musalmans – I want to see all the religions will have equal rights and opportunities, working side by side to each other” – M. K Gandhi
Secularism itself have definitional dilemma, each one have different connotations to it. Amid of this role of a state is important to maintain equilibrium and stability in all religious spheres by its legislative powers by framing appropriate laws. Through fundamentals of DPSP, FR and FD it must be ensured that every community have its own expression to its customs to make India as a Bharat in true sense.
Umesh kumar says
Secularism has been always a core value of our composite Indian culture. Whether the Parsis community who were welcomed and given a permanent home in India or appointment of many hindus to various important posts during Mughal period, collective fighting of various communities against the Brirtish rule such examples affirm the above statement.
Preamble of our constitution lists various basic principles on which our country is growing day by day in various spheres. Secularism was not explicitly mentioned in our constitution until 42nd amendment introduced it in the preamble of the constitution thus providing a more concrete feeling among us.
Secularism has various aspects:
• Avoiding theocracy and promoting democracy. In other words, separation of state from church.
• Respect to every religion.
• Developing scientific temper.
• Discarding superstitious practices.
Culture consists of many customs, law, belief, values, habit etc. We live in a diversified cultural system. So it is natural that a conflict between our personal and public customs may arise. Such conflicts must be dealt according to law of the country. For example mob lynching is creating disorder in society because few people are taking laws in their hands. They must approach the court for redressal of their grievances. In a long term the base of secularism will weaken and consequently the dream of our ancestors will be broken and some foreign power will again rule us
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Hi Umesh – You mentioned a very valid point. Secularism is nothing new to India nor it is western. It has been always a core value of Indian culture.
Bhargav saikia says
The secularism practiced in India is a positive one from that of the westerners. There is no state religion as such in India however State also not abandoned the importance of religion while making the state policies like the western does.
Indian secularism allowed every religious denominations to practice their own religion but at the same time restrictions also imposes once it transgresses it’s limits adversely to the Public interest and Constitutional Morality.
Hence The positive notion of secularism is subjected to public interest and integrity of the country. The cultural practices and religious beliefs therefore should be according to the prescribed laws and the administrative convenience.
For eg. Art 26 given us the right to maintain our religious affairs. But the recent initiative of judiciary in which it has abolished the practice of Triple Talaq clearly shows the interest of public remains at above the narrow cultural beliefs.
Threat to our cultural practices as it has been asked is actually the reasonable restrictions as per the law which necessary to maintain the true spirit of secularism in the country.
Riyaz says
No I don’t think so. It’s inherent in our culture too.
Muskaan Jain says
Secularism that is known for separation of institutions with no discrimination against anybody with the name of religion.
I totally agree with that because individuals ability, thinking, can not be judge by their religion.everyone have different prospective to see out any thing that can not be judge by their religion.and the most important and amazing feature of being human is that they have a power of thinking and can can share their personal views which can not be justified by the cast or religion.for eg. Any special child or disabled people can not work like normal people can do but they have some other interesting different views and opinions to share and to live and that can not judged.”Many people together make a one religion but no one have a same thoughts and same point of view of thinking.so at last if in one same religion people don’t have same thoughts or same point of view of thinking than what’s the point of separation or discrimination on the name of religion.
Thanks for listening me I don’t know much I just saw that point and write my personal views.dont want to hurt anyone.
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Thank you all for your valuable opinions. In a free country like India, we do respect your thoughts. Keep writing.
This ClearIAS challenge was a sudden reaction to the controversial question in UPSC CSE Mains 2019 on ‘secularism’ on which we felt there is a need for wider discussion.
We thank all readers for showing interest in the same.
We have gone through all the answers. Due to time and space constraints, we may not be able to give individual feedback to all answers. Still, we have interacted with many aspirants in the comment space – so that others will also get an idea.
The top 2 answers posted on this page will get a copy of the bestselling book “Important Judgments that transformed India“.
Notable opinions – Bhargav saikia, Umesh kumar, Manikandan S S, PAG, Krishnan, Medha Mishra, Dali Chatterjee, Midhun P Varrier, Medappa, Satyadeep Kar.
Top 2:
1. Midhun P Varrier
2. Satyadeep Kar
Based on your opinions, we have created another article – ie. “Loaded Questions in UPSC: How should you answer” – on ClearIAS.com. All readers are advised to check the same for better clarity regarding the expectations of UPSC.