Secularism vs. Sickularism: Debunking the Myth

Secularism is a fundamental principle in modern society, designed to ensure equal rights and protection under the law regardless of religious affiliation. However, in India, the term secularism has taken on a more complex and divisive meaning. Many Indian citizens feel a deep sense of disillusionment and even hatred towards what they perceive as sickularism, a term coined to describe what they consider a corrupted and partisan version of secularism. This article aims to elucidate the core aspects of secularism and debunk the notion of sickularism, highlighting the distortions in its application.

The Praxis of Secularism in India

Secularism, as per the constitution of India, is constitutional and not just a political stance. It is about the neutrality of the state towards religion and ensuring equal treatment of all religions. However, the practical implementation of this principle often falls short, leading to a narrative of unequal treatment based on community and religion.

There are different laws for different communities and political policies made to benefit specific communities. When other communities challenge these policies, they are often labeled as intolerant and communal. This form of partisan politics under the guise of secularism has been a source of significant controversy and tension in the country.

Partisanship versus Secularism

Secularism, in its true form, should be religion-neutral and aim to ensure justice and fairness for all citizens. Yet, in practice, many individuals and groups act in a partisan manner, reacting only in support or sympathy of one particular community. This often involves misinterpreting events and promoting an agenda that is not aligned with the principles of secularism.

For example, labeling one religious group as intolerant while ignoring similar actions by another reflects a biased and unprincipled approach to secularism. The distinctions between shouting down with Hindutva and down with Islam are often blurred in such partisan discourse, leading to a distorted understanding of what is truly secular.

The Problem with Sickulars

Sickulars is a term used to describe those who act in a manner that is antithetical to the true principles of secularism. These individuals are seen as not only partisanship but also engaging in actions that defame and demean the original culture of India. They are often found in close alliance with minorities and are hostile to those seeking to revive and promote India's cultural heritage.

Some notable individuals who are often labeled as sickulars include:

Dhruv Rathee Arfa Khanum Sherwani Rana Ayubb Aparna Sen Rubbish Kumar Rajdeep Sardesai Sagrika Ghose Rahul Gandhi

The term sickularism itself is a corrupted version of pseudo-secularism, representing a form of secularism that is fundamentally flawed and discriminatory.

European and Western Context of Secularism

The term secularism in European and western contexts primarily refers to the separation of state from religious institutions. In India, however, it is interpreted as equal treatment of all religions by the state. This implies that the state should neither promote nor oppose any religion and should ensure that its laws and policies are not influenced by religious considerations.

Notably, the concept of secularism in India was present from the inception of its constitution, with the included right to freedom of religion. However, recent years have seen the term being misused as a tool for appeasement towards minority communities, leading to discrimination and injustice.

Illustrations of Injustice

Haj Subsidy Issue

The Indian government provides Haj subsidies to Muslim pilgrims, but not to Hindu pilgrims, leading to discrimination. The Supreme Court of India has ruled that this is unconstitutional, yet no action has been taken to phase out this discriminatory practice.

Uniform Civil Code (UCC)

Reforms for Hindus were carried out in 1955-56, but similar reforms for Muslims have been consistently postponed. This inconsistency highlights the politicization of secularism.

Saha Bano Case and Babri Masjid Issue

Rajiv Gandhi arbitrarily enacted The Muslim Women Protection of Rights on Divorce Act 1986 to appease the Muslim personal law board and Muslim men. Later, he compromised the rights of Hindus by ordering the opening of the Babri Masjid, which led to its eventual demolition.

Such examples illustrate the misuse of secularism for political gains, rather than promoting true equality and justice for all.

Concluding Thoughts

The term secularism in India has been co-opted by politicians and activists to advance their own agendas, often at the expense of true justice and equality. Instead, the true spirit of secularism should be upheld, ensuring that the state remains neutral, and that all citizens are treated equally under the law. The battle against sickularism is a fight for the preservation of India's cultural heritage and the principles that truly define its democratic values.