Understanding Secularism

Question 1

What see the consequences or religion in politics?

Answer 1

1. Dominance of one group over another
2. Exclusion or persecution of those who do not follow the majority religion
3. Discrimination

Question 2

List the composition of ethnic groups in Sri Lanka.

Answer 2

Sinhalese 74%
Tamils 18%
Muslims 7%
Cristians 1%

Question 3

What was the view of the Tamils after the passing of the 1956 act?

Answer 3

The Tamils will never forget and forgive the majority community that deprived them of their rights which were apparently secured to them.

Question 4

How long did the civil was in Sri Lanka last?

Answer 4

Nearly 25 years

Question 5

What is a secular India?

Answer 5

A secular India means that there is no state religion. The country neither supports nor denies any religion its rightful place.

Question 6

List some reasons for secularism in India.

Answer 6

1. PROTECTION OF INDIVIDUAL FREEDOM
   India aims to protect each individual’s freedom of religion and does not interfere is anyone’s religious beliefs, practices or decisions.
2. PROTECTION OF THE DEMOCRATIC FABRIC OF THE NATION
   As a democratic nation, India treats all religions equally

Question 7

list some key features of Indian secularism.

Answer 7

1. No religion controls the religiously neutral country of India nor gets support from it.
2. No religious instruction is provided to any institution maintained by the government.
3. No one is taxed for the promotion of any religion.
4. Indian state shall not intervene in religious practices and shall respect sentiments of all religions. To protect interests of minority communities such as Muslims, Parsis and Cristians, they are allowed to follow ‘personal laws’ specific to their community.
5. It may interfere in ‘personal laws’ to avoid discrimination or exclusion.
6. All individuals have the right to practice any religion that they desire as well as conserve their distinct language, script and culture.