2.Understanding Secularism

Question 1

1. What does secularism refer to?

Answer 1

The separation of religion from the State

Question 2

How is Indian secularism different from that of the United States?

Answer 2

Indian secularism allows the State to intervene in religious affairs when necessary

Question 3

What does the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution prohibit?

Answer 3

The establishment of an official religion by the legislature

Question 4

What does the separation between State and religion in the U.S. mean?

Answer 4

The State and religion cannot interfere in each other’s affairs

Question 5

According to the passage, what is the role of the Indian State in matters of religion?

Answer 5

It intervenes in religious practices to ensure the protection of Fundamental Rights

Question 6

What does “principled distance” mean in Indian secularism?

Answer 6

The State can intervene in religion, but the interference must align with constitutional ideals

Question 7

What does the Indian Constitution guarantee in relation to secularism?

Answer 7

Fundamental Rights based on secular principles

Question 8

Which country passed a law in 2004 banning students from wearing conspicuous religious symbols, including the Islamic headscarf?

Answer 8

France