Fundamental Rights – Right to Freedom of Religion

Religion is a matter of personal beliefs and values. And that is why choosing a religion is considered as a fundamental right in India under the act, right to freedom of religion. If anyone believes in any particular religion than it does not affect anyone particularly. Thus, there are many constitutions in the world that give you the right to the freedom of religion. 

Browse more Topics under Indian Constitution

• Constitution of India: Historical Background
• Features of the Indian Constitution
• Preamble
• Union and Its Territory (Article 1 – 4)
• Citizenship (Article 5-11)
• Fundamental Rights – Right to Equality
• Fundamental Rights – Right against Exploitation (Very Short Article)
• Fundamental Rights – Right to Freedom of Religion
• Fundamental Rights – Cultural and Educational Rights
• Fundamental Rights – Saving of Certain Laws
• Fundamental Rights – Right to Constitutional Remedies
• Directive Principles of State Policy
• Emergency Provision and Special Provisions of the Indian Constitution
• Indian Parliament – Structure of Indian Parliament
• Indian Parliament – Functions of Indian Parliament

Right to Freedom of Religion

The laws of these countries are also made up in such a way that you can exercise the religion of your choice. In India, under the articles from 25 to 28 each and every individual has a right to freedom of religion. He/she can practice their own religion without troubling others.

As described earlier, this right is given to the citizens under the articles 25-28 of part 3 of the Indian constitution. So, this right given to everyone has explained by the Supreme Court of India. Also, it says being secular is neither pro-God or anti-God, it is irrespective of the atheist, the antagonistic, and the devout.

Thus, this right eliminates God from matters of a state and makes sure that no one is discriminated based on their religion and caste.

There have been different cultures practiced in India, for many years. India has been home to many religions and caste. Many people have come here and practiced and nurtured their own religion.

Thus, the freedom of right to religion holds greater importance in a country like India. Also, this right is very important and there are certain restrictions on it. This includes

• Health, morality, or public order.
• Social reform.
• Social welfare.
• Remaining provisions of part 3 of the Constitution.

Regulations related to any non-religious activity

Any usage, activity, or custom that differs the above-mentioned restrictions are not considered as purely religious activity. In such scenarios, it is acceptable for legislation to regulate. Also, at times it is difficult to constitute what purely religious activity is!

Thus, there are times when necessary restrictions need to be imposed. So, for example, it is not permissible to take out a religious procession on a highway as a part of your religious right.

Fundamental Concept

Dr. Ambedkar has said that in India the concept of religion is very wide. Also, there are numerous aspects that are covered from birth to the death of a person. So, if a state starts accepting this concept of religion in India that it will not be poss6 for social reform in India.

For many years, the married men whose personal law does not allow them to have multiple marriages have been resorting to illegal practices. Thus, they convert to Islam just for the sake of this.  Also, they don’t have to dissolve the previous marriage.

The highest court in India outlawed this practice. Also, you have to note that in article 27 of the Indian constitution, it states that no person will be compelled to pay the taxes. So, under this, the proceeds which are especially appropriate for the payments of promotion or maintenance of the religious activities are included.

Practice Questions Right to Freedom of Religion

Q. In India, the prohibition of discrimination under the grounds of race, caste, religion,  place of birth, or sex is a fundamental right. Thus, this right is classified under

A. Right to equality

B. Right to education

C. Right to freedom of religion

D. Right against exploitation

Answer: A. Right to equality

Q. Under the Indian constitution, the right to freedom of religion implies that the citizen of India

A. Must follow the religion of a state.

B. Can follow any religion other than the state religion

C. Can be appointed as a government official if he/she does not have faith in any religion.

D. Have the freedom to practice, propagate, or profess a religion of their liking.

Answer: D. Have the freedom to practice, propagate, or profess a religion of their liking.