---
title: "Secularism in the Indian Context: Meaning | Model Diplomat"
description: "Secularism in the Indian Context ensures equal treatment of all religions and state intervention for social reform, vital for UPSC and constitutional studies."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/secularism-indian-context"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- Indian secularism is a constitutional principle under which the state maintains no official religion, treats all faiths equally, and may intervene in religious affairs to ensure social reform and equality.
- How does Indian secularism differ from Western secularism?
- When was the word 'secular' added to the Indian Constitution?
- What is the essential religious practices doctrine?
- Is a Uniform Civil Code compatible with Indian secularism?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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In Shayara Bano v. Union of India (2017), the Supreme Court of India struck down instantaneous triple talaq, illustrating the secular state's authority under Article 25(2) to reform religious personal practice in favour of gender equality.

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