Thread by @go4avinash

The separation of #Religion and #State is the foundation of #Secularism.

Lets Explore ... "SECULARISM".

Read & ask yourself whether #India is actually a 'Secular' state.

#ExploringSecularism

Secularism ensures religious groups don't interfere in affairs of state, and the state doesn't interfere in religious affairs. Separation of religious institutions from state institutions and a public sphere where religion may participate, but not dominate.

#ExploringSecularism

Secularism seeks to defend the absolute freedom of religious and other belief, and protect the right to manifest religious belief insofar as it does not impinge on the rights and freedoms of others.

#ExploringSecularism

In a secular democracy all citizens are equal before the law and parliament. No religious or political affiliation gives advantages or disadvantages and religious believers are citizens with the same rights and obligations as anyone else.

#ExploringSecularism

Equal access to public services. It is essential that Institutes, Hospitals, Schools, Police and other public services are secular at the point of use, so no-one is disadvantaged or denied access on grounds of religious belief (or non-belief).

#ExploringSecularism

'Secularism' is not 'Atheism'. It simply provides a framework for a democratic society. Secularism itself does not seek to challenge the tenets of any particular religion or belief, neither does it seek to impose atheism on anyone.

#ExploringSecularism

Religious beliefs, ideas and organisations must not enjoy privileged protection from the right to freedom of expression. In a democracy, all ideas and beliefs must be open to discussion. Individuals have rights; ideas do not.

#ExploringSecularism