A secular State deals with the individual as a citizen, irrespective of his religion, is not connected to a particular religion nor does it seek to promote or interfere with religion. Secular State has nothing to do with religious affairs except when their management involves crime, fraud or becomes a threat to unity and integrity of the State. It is secular outlook which has been responsible for many fundamental changes in Indian society like the abolition of untouchability, the breaking down of the barriers between the various castes, and the promotion of equality among the sexes. Most of the legislations are simply measures of social reform motivated by humanitarian considerations and concern for social justice. The characteristic feature of Indian secularism is its determination to adopt a rational approach to the solution of socio-economic problems. The politicization of caste and religion and pampering of communal leaders is causing great harm to the body politic of the nation. It focuses on various provisions of Constitution of India which have been incorporated to secure the secularist character of India. Paper also critically analyses as to why the principle of secularism has been diluted in India.
Religion, Fundamentalism, Tolerance, Freedom, Unity, Fraternity
