Consider the following statements regarding Constitutional secularism in the Indian context: 1. It is based on the principle of the strict separation of state and religion. 2. The Supreme court considers it to be the part of the basic structure of the Constitution. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Correct Answer:

B. 2 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: Indian secularism is not based on a strict separation of state and religion (like the Western model). It is a 'positive' concept that allows for principled intervention by the state in religious affairs. Statement 2 is correct: The Supreme Court, in the S.R. Bommai case (1994), held that secularism is a part of the 'basic structure' of the Constitution.