Even apex court yet to discover real meaning of secularism: Justice Alam

Giving a critical analysis of a few Supreme Court judgments to explain the relevance of secularism,Justice Aftab Alam said secularism is basic and fundamental to social life and political governance of the country. “Secularism is part of the basic structure of the Constitution. Secularism does not mean keeping equi-distance from all religions,” Justice Alam said.

Explaining the engagement of the Supreme Court with secularism in three parts,Justice Alam said that first,the conflict between minority rights and individual rights is to be construed. Secondly,it deals with how the Supreme Court has viewed secularism and thirdly,how Supreme Court has tried to relegate States’ intervention in religious affairs. Justice Alam gave illustrations to support his argument. He added that the Apex Court is yet to discover the real meaning of secularism.

Speaking on the occasion,Chief Justice Arjan Kumar Sikri said “We (Indians) cannot boast of being the largest democracy unless we respect each other and exercise democracy in its real sense. Showing kindness to others is more important than wisdom. Give kindness as it is usually returned”.

The Chief Justice emphasised that we as Indians need to be enlightened. He added that the country should come first. Justice Sikri deplored the plundering of public properties “under the garb of religion”. Highlighting the role to be played by a state government,Justice Sikri said,“Secularism fails when states become mute spectators. A State has no religion. All individuals have to introspect and believe in communal harmony”.

Speaking on the occasion,senior lawyer R S Cheema,while outlining the theme,said “It is time for stock-taking.” He added,“The real test of democracy is a test to find the minutest minorities to have their own identities under the umbrella of democracy. Minorities should not feel insecure.” Stating that “secularism is under serious threat,” Cheema said that “planned attacks on secularism” are taking place.