France learn from the Indian Constitution’s approach to secularism

Secularism is the constitutional principle of separation of the state from religious institutions. Secularism forms the core element of the basic structure of the Indian constitution. And even France is an indivisible, secular democratic social Republic guaranteeing that all their citizens regardless of their origin, race or religion are treated as equals before the law and respecting all religious beliefs. 

The ideal of secularism envisaged in India is different from that of France: 

• The paradigms of republicanism , as practiced in France, or multiculturalism as implemented in a number of Western democracies, such as the UK and the US, or indeed employment-based integration models of Sweden or Germany, are all in crisis. 

• This can be seen in the banning of Islamic clothing, kosher or halal meals and “burkinis” in France . 

• France was a largely homogeneous Catholic country, where the clergy had an unduly high degree of influence over the state’s apparatus. 

• In France, people are not supposed to wear any religious signs in the public institutions like schools. 

• In France, any act which shows signs of preaching one’s religion is banned in the society. 

What can they learn from Indian secularism? 

• Indian Secularism opposed oppression of Dalits and women within Hinduism. It also opposes the discrimination against women within Indian Islam or Christianity and the possible threats that a majority community might pose to the rights of the minority religious communities 

• Indian Secularism deals not only with religious freedom of individuals but also with religious freedom of minority communities. 

• Indian Secularism has made room for and is compatible with the idea of state supported religious reform. For example, Indian constitution bans untouchability under Article 17. 

• In India – state provides Hajj subsidy to Muslims, administrative support for Amarnath Yatra to the pilgrimages, and allows Sikhs to carry Kripans with them. 

• In India, the various religious laws are given importance and identification like Sharia-based personal law of Muslims, whereas in France, only uniform civil law prevails. 

• The Indian state may engage with religion negatively to oppose religious tyranny. It may also choose a positive mode of engagement. 

If secularism is a social philosophy of thick friendships and cross-cultural bonds, then it has to be guided by compassion and not merely a policy of tolerance. Such social concern has to be nurtured and made an integral part of the political culture of any nation.