Question

Which feature of Indian constitution does not entail secular characteristics? O No state religion O Abolition of untouchability O Cultural and minority rights O Non-discrimination based on social backgrounds. ​

Answer 1

The abolition of untouchability in the Indian constitution is a social reform that does not pertain to secular characteristics. Secular features typically involve the separation of state and religion, and ensuring no state-sponsored religion, something that the abolition of untouchability doesn't address.

Step-by-step explanation:

The feature of the Indian constitution that does not entail secular characteristics is the abolition of untouchability. Secularism in the context of a constitution typically refers to the separation of religion from the state and ensuring that the government does not favor or promote any particular religion. While the abolition of untouchability is a critical civil rights reform aimed at ending caste-based discrimination, it does not directly relate to the separation of religion and state, or to the state's stance on religion.

On the other hand, provisions like no state religion, cultural and minority rights, and non-discrimination based on social backgrounds contribute to secular characteristics by promoting equality and non-discrimination, including on the basis of religion. No state religion ensures that the state does not officially endorse or establish a particular religion, and cultural and minority rights typically include the protection of religious freedoms, thus supporting secular values.

Answer 2

The feature that does not entail secular characteristics is the abolition of untouchability, as it specifically targets social discrimination rather than religious affairs. The correct answer is option: 2) Abolition of untouchability.

Step-by-step explanation:

The feature of the Indian constitution that does not entail secular characteristics would be the abolition of untouchability. While secularism implies the separation of religion from state affairs and ensures no state religion, the abolition of untouchability is more related to eradicating social discrimination and promoting social equality. The recognition of cultural and minority rights and the principle of non-discrimination based on social backgrounds are consistent with the secular ideals of the constitution as they protect the rights of all citizens, regardless of religious affiliation.

It is essential to differentiate between provisions that precisely cater to secular values and those that address broader social justice issues. Whereas the abolition of untouchability is a measure targeted at abolishing a caste-based social evil, secular characteristics would involve policies like having no state religion, ensuring that government policies do not favor one religious group over another, and preventing religious discrimination, as reflected in the Constitutional provisions that prohibit religious tests for national office holders.