Secularism

• Introduction — What is Secularism?

• Present in our rich cultural ethos. 

• A political progressive concept that delinks religion from loyalty to state. 

• Relevance in India. 

• Conclusion — The only progressive path for us. 

Secularism is a much used and abused word in India today. Each political party is vying to prove, that it is more secular than the other, in the battle of the ballots. However, generally speaking, it is a political concept in which people of all religions, irrespective of caste or creed enjoy equal rights. There is no religion of the state, and people have a fundamental right to practice the religion of their choice.

This thought is nothing new for us, as it is embedded in the cultural ethos that makes us tolerant, magnanimous and receptive to all religions. This is why we find that this country has been the birthplace of many religions like Sikhism, Jainism, and Buddhism and of course Hinduism. People over the centuries lived in peace, except for the last two centuries, when foreign rulers vitiated this harmony, by their much-maligned policy of divide and rule.

 The world over especially in Europe, there were countries at war with one another to prove the superiority of their religion. This was the cause of untold destruction and miseries to the people. Even within the country, the bigotry leads to internecine, quarrels and strife. The chief cause being, a religion patronized by the state. Those subjects who did not prescribe to this religion were considered second-class citizens. It was, however, in the last century that was the period of great awakening and enlightenment, the realization dawned that all religion led to but one God. This brought forth the idea of secularism that we see today. It was also understood, that differences in religion were not incompatible with the loyalty of the state. The people owing alliance to different personal religions could also be loyal towards their country and that religion was something very and distinct from politics. Since everyone enjoyed equal rights, there was no cause for strife and people could happily coexist. This was not possible in a theocratic state, where there is a state religion practiced by the majority and the minorities always feel threatened. 

The founders of our constitution very wisely laid out the foundation of a truly dem—_ and secular country that symbolizes the philosophy of "unity in diversity". This concept took shape under the guidance of Mahatma Gandhi the father of the nation, which led to the blossoming of people of different religions and faith in the country. They reflect our rich cultural heritage and complement each other for their own, as well as the growth of the country. The compulsions of party politics at times bring out major differences that raise their ugly heads. We have ourselves to blame for this, as they show our immaturity. We should be more nationalistic in our outlook, rather than being, guided by narrow-minded and selfish motives. 

Secularism today is a proven and successful political belief. This is the only path by which such a large and diverse country like India can progress. In the words of Benjamin Franklin "We: must indeed hang together or, most assuredly we shall all hang separately". The true success of this belief' will be when we regard ourselves first as Indians and then as Hindus, Sikhs, and Muslims.