Indian vs. Western Debates on Secularism
1. Conceptual Differences
- India: Principled Distance Model – State maintains an equal distance from all religions but also intervenes to protect religious minorities and reform discriminatory practices (e.g., abolition of untouchability, Sabarimala verdict).
- West: Strict Separation Model – Religion and state are completely separate (e.g., French Laïcité, U.S. First Amendment).
2. Historical Context
- India: Secularism evolved to manage religious diversity (Hindus, Muslims, Christians, etc.), ensuring coexistence.
- West: Developed post Reformation and Enlightenment to curb Church dominance over the state (e.g., French Revolution, American Constitution).
3. Role of Religion in Public Life
- India: Secularism acknowledges religion as part of public life (state supports minority institutions like Aligarh Muslim University).
- West: Religion is kept out of public institutions (e.g., bans on religious symbols in French schools).
4. Debates & Challenges
- India:
- Issue of Uniform Civil Code (UCC) vs. Personal Laws.
- State interventions (e.g., Triple Talaq abolition).
- West:
- Rise of Islamophobia and migration challenges (e.g., France’s burqa ban).
Conclusion
Indian secularism is inclusive and accommodative, while the Western model is separationist. India’s model faces challenges in balancing religious freedom with reform while ensuring social harmony.
