Reimagining Indian Secularism

Rajeev Bhargava's book "Reimagining Indian Secularism" challenges the notion that secularism in India arose from a society that was already religiously homogenized and argues that it is necessary to combat institutionalized religious domination and apathy or antipathy to religion to promote inter-religious harmony and anti-reformist tendencies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 76 pages
Publication date: 06 December 2023
Publisher: Seagull Books London Ltd

In India, secularism emerged as a distinct concept from the religionization of society, differing significantly from its Western counterpart. Unlike in the West, where secularism arose in a society already deeply religiously homogenized, the need in India was to dismantle the political alliance between the church and the state. Secularism in India does not seek to antagonize or indifference towards religion but rather to challenge the institutional dominance of religion, both within and among different faiths. Apathy or hostility towards religion, as suggested by Rajeev Bhargava, could lead to inter-religious rivalries, intensifying anti-reformist tendencies and further dividing society.

Despite facing daily ridicule in India, secularism has been misunderstood, abused, and deliberately distorted by its proponents, practitioners, and opponents. Reimagining Indian Secularism presents a proposal for the rehabilitation of secularism, aiming to restore its principles and values.

Secularism in India is characterized by a principled distance from religion, which is essential for maintaining a harmonious and inclusive society. It ensures that religious beliefs and practices are not imposed on individuals or groups, allowing for freedom of conscience and expression. Secularism promotes the values of equality, justice, and human rights, regardless of one's religious affiliation.

However, secularism in India has faced challenges over the years. One of the main challenges is the politicization of religion, where political parties use religious identity to gain votes and consolidate power. This has led to the marginalization of secular voices and the erosion of the separation of church and state.

Another challenge is the rise of religious extremism and fundamentalism, which threaten the secular fabric of society. These movements often promote a narrow interpretation of religion, which can lead to violence and discrimination against minority groups.

To address these challenges, it is essential to promote secularism through education, awareness, and dialogue. The government, civil society organizations, and educational institutions should work together to promote secular values and encourage interfaith understanding and cooperation.

Furthermore, it is important to uphold the principles of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to freedom of religion, expression, and association. The government should ensure that religious minorities are protected from discrimination and that religious institutions are accountable to the law.

In conclusion, secularism in India is a unique concept that emerged as a response to the religionization of society. It seeks to promote a principled distance from religion, promote equality, justice, and human rights, and uphold the separation of church and state. However, secularism faces challenges from politicization, religious extremism, and the erosion of the separation of church and state. To address these challenges, it is essential to promote secularism through education, awareness, and dialogue, and to uphold the principles of the Constitution. By doing so, India can continue to be a vibrant and diverse society that values freedom, equality, and human rights for all its citizens.

Weight: 192g
Dimension: 115 x 188 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803092898