UPSC Mains 2024 GS2 Q15 — Comparative Secularism
Discuss India as a secular state and compare with the secular principles of the US constituion. (Answer in 250 words) 15
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Discusscompare
- Scope keywords
- India as a secular statesecular principlesUS constituion
- Implicit sub-parts
- Define the unique character of Indian secularism (Sarva Dharma Sambhava vs. Dharma Nirpekshta).
- Analyze the 'Wall of Separation' doctrine in the US context.
- Contrast the 'State-Religion Distance' vs 'Principled Intervention' models.
- Examine constitutional provisions for both nations (e.g., Articles 25-28 vs 1st Amendment).
- Explain the role of the state in religious reforms in India versus the US.
- Common pitfalls
- Focusing only on the Indian preamble without mentioning the US 1st Amendment (Establishment Clause).
- Neglecting to mention that Indian secularism allows for state-funded religious institutions and personal laws, whereas the US model generally forbids this.
- Failing to discuss the 'positive' vs 'negative' nature of secularism effectively.
- Oversimplifying the US model as completely anti-religious rather than strictly neutral/separate.
- Dimensions required
- ConstitutionalComparativeJudicial InterpretationSociopoliticalHistorical context of drafting
- Marks allocation hint
Allocate 50-60 words to define and justify India's 'Principled Distance' model. Devote 120-130 words to a direct comparison with the US model, using a table or clear thematic points. Use the final 60 words to synthesize how both models aim for religious freedom despite different structural paths.
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