UPSC Mains 2019 GS1 Q10 — Indian Society
What are the challenges to our cultural practices in the name of secularism ? (Answer in 150 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- What
- Scope keywords
- challengescultural practicesin the name ofsecularism
- Implicit sub-parts
- Definition of Indian secularism as 'principled intervention' versus 'equal distance'.
- Identification of specific cultural practices viewed as regressive vs. those protected under identity.
- The tension between individual rights (Articles 14, 21) and collective cultural rights (Articles 25, 26, 29).
- The risk of 'Majoritarianism' vs. 'Minority Appeasement' narratives emerging from state-led reforms.
- Common pitfalls
- Writing a generic essay on the definition of secularism without addressing the 'challenges' aspect.
- Becoming overly critical of the judiciary or state, forgetting that secularism is a Basic Structure of the Constitution.
- Focusing only on one religion; failing to provide a balanced view across Hindu, Muslim, and Tribal cultural practices.
- Confusing 'Western secularism' (separation) with 'Indian secularism' (interventionalist) without highlighting why this causes friction.
- Dimensions required
- Constitutional/LegalSociologicalJudicial (Case Laws)Ethical/Rights-basedGender-sensitive
- Marks allocation hint
Allocate 25 words for a nuanced definition of Indian secularism. Devote 100 words to the core challenges, categorizing them into judicial activism (Sabarimala, Jallikattu), legislative reforms (UCC debates), and the homogenization of diverse tribal/local traditions. Use the final 25 words for a balanced conclusion on 'Essential Religious Practices' doctrine.
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