Elucidate the differences between Western and Indian model of secularism. To what extent do you agree with the criticism that Indian model of secularism is susceptible to promoting minority appeasement?

Secularism refers to the idea of treating every religion equally. Western model: - Complete dissociation of state from the religion. - Negative model of secularism - No spending in any religious activity by the state. - No interference in religious activities Indian model: - Association of state with all religions equally. - Positive model of secularism. - Equal spending for promotion of all religions. - Interference to ensure equal rights. eg Hindu temple trusts managed by the state According to some experts, the Indian model of secularism is susceptible to promoting minority appeasement due to:

i State intervention in minority religious for its promotion and protection is permitted — this allows politicization of religious issues for vote bank politics. ii Some religions form majority in specific regions — Sikhism in Punjab or Hinduism in lakhasuner — appeasement leads to increased chances of election win. However, this to has been discarded several times. - Indian model promotes unity and respect for all religions. - Promotes communal harmony. - Protects majorities politics and protect minorities from majority rule. The Indian model has been successful in promoting development of all religions and their ideals, thus promoting unity in the diversity.