• Equal respect for all religions
• No state religion
• Freedom of religion for individuals

👉 This approach is often described as “principled distance” between religion and the state.

Key Features

• State can intervene in religious matters for social reform
• Religious freedom is subject to public order, morality, and health
• Minority religions receive constitutional protection

Difference from Western Secularism

2. Religion–State Relationship and Its Implications for Right to Equality

Religion–State Relationship in India

The Indian state:

• Does not favor any religion
• Protects religious freedom (Articles 25–28)
• Intervenes to remove discrimination and inequality

Right to Equality (Articles 14–18)

The Constitution guarantees:

• Equality before law
• Prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, caste, sex, etc.
• Equal opportunity in public employment
• Abolition of untouchability and titles

Implications

Positive

• Ensures equal citizenship regardless of religion
• Protects minorities from discrimination
• Allows affirmative action for disadvantaged groups

Challenges

• Religious identity sometimes used for political mobilisation
• Tension between personal laws and gender equality

3. Caste as an Identity in India

Meaning

Caste is a social identity based on birth that historically determined occupation, status, and social relations.

Caste as Identity

• Shapes social networks and community life
• Influences education, marriage, and politics
• Acts as a source of both discrimination and mobilisation

Changing Nature

• From ritual hierarchy → political and economic identity
• Marginalised castes use caste identity to demand rights and representation

4. Dominant and Entrenched Castes in Indian Politics: Contemporary Scenario

Meaning of Dominant Caste

A dominant caste is one that:

• Is numerically large
• Owns land or economic resources
• Exercises political influence at regional level

(Concept given by sociologist M.N. Srinivas)

Role in Contemporary Politics

• Control local political institutions
• Influence party ticket distribution
• Act as vote-bank leaders

Examples

• OBC and regional dominant castes in state politics
• Shift from upper-caste dominance to backward-caste political assertion

Positive Role

✅ Political empowerment of backward groups
✅ Greater social representation
✅ Democratisation of power

Negative Role

❌ Exclusion of weaker sub-castes
❌ Reinforcement of caste hierarchy
❌ Vote-bank and identity politics

5. Caste and Indian Constitutional Provisions

Constitutional Measures Against Caste Discrimination

A. Fundamental Rights

• Article 14 – Equality before law
• Article 15 – No discrimination; allows affirmative action
• Article 16 – Reservation in public employment
• Article 17 – Abolition of untouchability

B. Directive Principles

• Promote social and economic justice
• Reduce inequalities

C. Special Provisions

• Reservations for SCs, STs, and OBCs
• Political representation in legislatures
• Protection through laws like SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act

Conclusion

Indian secularism, caste, and equality are deeply interconnected.
While secularism ensures religious freedom and equality, caste continues to shape social and political life. The Constitution attempts to balance equality with social justice through affirmative action and legal safeguards.
In contemporary India, the challenge is to transform caste and religious identities from sources of division into instruments of inclusion, ensuring dignity, equality, and democratic participation for all citizens.

📌 UG Exam Writing Tips

• Begin with clear definitions
• Use constitutional articles
• Write positives + challenges
• End with a balanced conclusion

If you want:
✔️ Short notes (2–5 marks)
✔️ MCQs with answers
✔️ PDF version for revision
✔️ Hindi / Odia medium article

Just tell me 😊