The concept of secularism as it has come to India from the West implies a separation that exists between the State and religion. As per this concept, no religion will be considered the State religion and no one will be discriminated against on the grounds of religion.

It is a doctrine that states religion is kept separate from the social, political, economic and cultural spheres of life. Religion is open to one and all and is given as a personal choice to an individual without any different treatment to the latter.

Secularism in the Indian context implies that everyone has the freedom to practice their religion. This right is guaranteed via Article 25 of the Fundamental Rights. We do not need to proclaim secularism to grant religious freedom. This freedom forms a part of the Fundamental Rights. But the principle of secularism goes further and establishes equality between all religious groups. The concept of secularism also distances the State from the sphere of religion least one religion should emerge as the State religion. This assures the Minority a legitimate place in the country. At the same time, the Majority group would not be privileged in any manner. Thus, the concept of secularism in India has the following components:



a) The State shall not attach itself to any one religion, which will thereby establish itself at the State religion.

b) All citizens are granted the freedom of religious belief.

c) The state will ensure equality among religious groups by ensuring that one group is not favoured at the expense of the other. Correspondingly, the minorities will not be discriminated against in any way.