Day 17 – Q. 2. Indian secularism is based on the principle of principled distance, whereas French secularism emphasizes strict separation of religion and state. In this context, compare the two models and evaluate their implications for constitutional democracy. (150 words, 10 marks)

Q. 2. Indian secularism is based on the principle of principled distance, whereas French secularism emphasizes strict separation of religion and state. In this context, compare the two models and evaluate their implications for constitutional democracy. (150 words, 10 marks)

Introduction 

Secularism means the state maintains neutrality towards religions to ensure equality and  freedom. Indian secularism allows engagement with religions for reform, while French  secularism, or laïcité, enforces a strict separation to protect individual liberty.  

Body  

Comparison of Indian and French Secularism 

1. State–Religion Engagement: Indian secularism allows state intervention; French secularism  mandates complete separation.   Example: India reformed religious practices like untouchability; France avoids any legal  interference.
2. Approach to Religious Freedom: Indian model permits public faith expression; French model  restricts it.  Example: Hijab allowed in Indian schools; banned in French public spaces.  
3. Treatment of Minorities: Indian secularism accommodates group rights; French model  emphasizes uniform citizenship.  Example: India protects minority institutions; France applies one law to all.
4. Legal Constitutional Basis: Indian secularism is constitutionally embedded; French secularism  is based on legislation.  Example: Indian Constitution (Articles 25–28); French 1905 Law on Separation.
5. Cultural Context: Indian secularism arose in a multi-faith society; French secularism  responded to Church dominance.  Example: India seeks religious harmony; France asserts state neutrality.

Implications for Constitutional Democracy 

1. Pluralism vs. Homogeneity: Indian secularism promotes diversity; French secularism aims for  assimilation.  Example: India supports religious processions; France restricts overt religious expressions.
2. Social Cohesion: Indian flexibility helps mediate tensions; French rigidity sometimes fuels  unrest.  Example: France witnessed protests over Abaya ban in 2024.
3. Judicial Role: Indian judiciary balances rights and reform; French courts largely uphold secular  uniformity.  Example: Indian SC upheld Triple Talaq ban for equality; French courts upheld religious  symbol bans.
4. Political Use: Indian secularism is subject to electoral debates; French secularism shapes  national identity discourse.  Example: In India, secularism linked with minority welfare; in France, tied to citizenship  debates.  
5. Democratic Challenge: India struggles with politicisation of religion; France faces backlash for  perceived exclusion.  Example: Indian parties use religion for vote banks; France sees alienation among Muslim  youth.  

Conclusion 

Both models aim to uphold democracy, but India promotes religious coexistence while France  ensures strict neutrality. Their success depends on balancing liberty, equality, and social harmony  within their constitutions.