Situating Modern Indian Secularism: A Constitutional Perspective

The nature of secularism in India has been described as complex. The meaning of the term itself has been controversial and, although it is enshrined in the constitution, not all are agreed on what it is, and what its function is in the modern Indian context. This article includes the development of the current secular state from the nineteenth century thoughts of Holyoake and his books, including Principles of Secularism, through to more contemporary thoughts of Indian writers and theorists, as well as those of others with interests in this area. The development of the contemporary philosophical and legal underpinnings of secular government in general, and India in particular, are explained. This article seeks to provide an historical context to the secular ideal and speculate on its future in India.