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Secularism is an ideology that originated from the root word “secular” It is derived from the Latin word ‘secular’, which means the ‘present age or generation’. The word secular came into use and connected with the social process of secularisation. Secularisation came into use in Europe to describe the transfer of territories from the control of the church to the dominion of secular authority or the state.
Secularism became prominent after the French Revolution. George Jacoab Holyoake is the one who coined the term ‘secularism’ in 1851. Holyoake questioned the religious-based civil society and he recommended secularism as a state ideology that promotes human welfare. Secularism was a progressive ideology, and it was an essential qualification for a liberal, democratic state after the French Revolution.
Under secularism, a modern state does not make any distinction between groups, classes, etc. within society, irrespective of their religion.It is a situation where the state shall not impose any religion on people and did not prohibit the practice of any religion. Secularism consciously denounces religious orthodoxy and advocates civil values.
Secularism in India
India is the home of many religions and is a multi-religious society. Religion plays an important role in the lives of Indians. In India people practice many religions, therefore we cannot identify with any one religion. India tolerates all religious practices. In India, the secular idea was adopted during the freedom struggle to unite the various communities against the colonial power The development of the secular concept is closely connected with the development of nationalism and the freedom struggle. Nehru believed that the imperative of secularism was not only for detachment of religion in public life but a progressive and modern outlook. It also helps all citizens to enjoy equal rights and statuses.
Later, the secular concepts became the part of Indian Constitution. India is a secular state and Constitution doesn’t oppose any religious practice. India’s constitution offers freedom and rights to believe and practice any religion.
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