Consider the following statements regarding the features of Indian Secularism: 1. It advocates mutual exclusion of state and religion in order to protect individual freedom. 2. It forbids state from providing any type of financial aid to any specific religious community. 3. A single standard civil law is employed in delivering justice regardless of religious affiliation. 4. It prevents the State from discriminating against any citizen on the grounds of religion. How many of the above given statements are correct?

Correct Answer:

A. Only one

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: This describes Western secularism. Indian secularism allows for principled state intervention in religion. Statement 2 is incorrect: The state can provide financial aid to religious institutions but not for the promotion of a particular religion. Statement 3 is incorrect: India does not have a Uniform Civil Code; personal matters are often governed by different religious laws. Statement 4 is correct: A core feature of Indian secularism, enshrined in articles like 15 and 16, is the prohibition of discrimination by the State on the grounds of religion.