Democracy in Name Only: Examining Freedom in India Amid Calls for Secular Reforms
New Delhi, India, 2025 — India, a nation with a constitutionally enshrined commitment to secularism and democracy, faces increasing scrutiny over its adherence to these principles. Recent events and policies have sparked debates about the extent to which religion influences governmental decisions, potentially compromising the democratic freedoms of its citizens.
Recent Legislation and Controversial Policies
In India, the enforcement of laws related to cow protection, which align with Hindu religious doctrines, has led to increased communal tensions and violence. According to a 2021 report by Human Rights Watch, there have been numerous instances where these laws have been used to justify attacks on minority communities, raising serious concerns about the protection of minority rights under the current administration.
Impact on Minority Rights
The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) passed in 2019, which offers citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from neighbouring countries, has been another point of contention. Critics argue that by excluding Muslims, the act contradicts the secular principles enshrined in India’s constitution. The United Nations Human Rights Council has expressed concerns that the CAA does not adhere to international standards of non-discrimination.
Global Response and Calls for Action
The international community, including bodies like the United Nations and the European Union, has urged India to reassess its approach to secularism and ensure that all religious groups are treated equally before the law. During the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) by the United Nations in 2022, several countries recommended India strengthen its mechanisms to protect all religious minorities and promote inclusive policies.
Experts Weigh In on Religious Influence and Democratic Values
Experts suggest that while India’s founding principles are robustly democratic and secular, the practical implementation often falls short. “The challenge for India is not the absence of democratic values in legal texts but their execution in spirit.”
Looking Forward
As India continues to navigate these complex issues, the path forward involves reinforcing its commitment to secularism as a cornerstone of its democratic framework. “India’s strength lies in its diversity, and the future depends on embracing this pluralism wholeheartedly.”
