NCERT Class 8 Political Science — Chapter 2: Understanding Secularism

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Assertion (A): The US model of secularism prevents the State from intervening in the affairs of religion. Reason (R): The US Constitution allows the State to provide financial aid to religious institutions for educational purposes.

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

ABoth A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
BBoth A and R are true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
CA is true but R is false
DA is false but R is true

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is (c).

Explanation

The concept of secularism varies across different constitutional frameworks. The United States follows the model of "strict separation" or "mutual exclusion" between the State and religion, whereas the Indian model follows "principled distance," allowing for intervention to ensure equality and reform.

Statement-wise Analysis:

Assertion (A): Correct. The First Amendment of the US Constitution creates a "wall of separation" between the Church and the State. This implies a mutual exclusion where the State does not intervene in the internal affairs of religion, and religion does not dictate State policy.
Reason (R): Incorrect. Under the US model of strict separation, the State is generally prohibited from providing financial aid to religious institutions. The Establishment Clause forbids the government from supporting any religious activity or institution. In contrast, the Indian Constitution (Article 30) allows the State to provide aid to educational institutions maintained by religious minorities, provided there is no discrimination.

Key Takeaway:

The US model of secularism is based on the strict separation of religion and State, prohibiting both state intervention in religious affairs and state funding for religious institutions. The Indian model allows for principled intervention and financial aid.

Your note

More from Chapter 2: Understanding Secularism

With reference to the concept of secularism as discussed in political theory, consider the following statements regarding the "essence of secularism": 1. It rests on the assumption that all forms of domination related to religion should end. 2. It mandates that religious groups must not have any contact with State authorities. 3. It implies that the majority community must always yield to the demands of the minority. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Consider the following statements regarding the relationship between the State and religion: 1. Acts of religious discrimination are more likely to occur when one religion is accorded official recognition by the State. 2. The separation of State and religion is the sole mechanism required to prevent the tyranny of the majority. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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In the context of the "tyranny of the majority" in democratic societies, consider the following 1. It can refer to the physical coercion or killing of religious minorities by the majority group. 2. It ensures that the State provides equal financial resources to all religious communities. 3. It is one of the primary reasons why separating religion from the State is considered essential in democracies. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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With reference to the "Strategy of Distancing" employed by the Indian State, consider the following: 1. Government spaces like law courts are legally mandated to display religious symbols of the majority. 2. Government schools are prohibited from celebrating any religious festival. 3. This strategy implies that the State is not ruled by any religious group. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Consider the following statement regarding the practice of secularism in the United States of America: "The legislature cannot declare any religion as the official religion. Nor can they give preference to one religion." This provision is primarily derived from which of the following?

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The correct option is (c).

Explanation

Statement-wise Analysis:

Assertion (A): Correct. The First Amendment of the US Constitution creates a "wall of separation" between the Church and the State. This implies a mutual exclusion where the State does not intervene in the internal affairs of religion, and religion does not dictate State policy.
Reason (R): Incorrect. Under the US model of strict separation, the State is generally prohibited from providing financial aid to religious institutions. The Establishment Clause forbids the government from supporting any religious activity or institution. In contrast, the Indian Constitution (Article 30) allows the State to provide aid to educational institutions maintained by religious minorities, provided there is no discrimination.

Key Takeaway: