The correct option is (a) 1 only.
Explanation
The Constitution of India embodies the principle of Secularism, which was explicitly inserted into the Preamble by the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976. Indian secularism is characterized by the "principled distance" of the State from religion, ensuring that the State has no official religion and treats all religions with equal respect (Sarva Dharma Sambhav).
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: The Preamble declares India to be a "Secular" Democratic Republic. This mandates that the Indian State functions without any religious bias and does not uphold any specific religion as the State religion.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The Constitution does not deny religious freedom. On the contrary, Article 25 guarantees all persons the freedom of conscience and the right freely to profess, practice, and propagate religion, subject to public order, morality, and health.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: Secularism implies a separation between the State and religious institutions to prevent theocracy. Merging the power of religion and the State into one authority would constitute a theocratic state, which is the antithesis of secularism. The Indian Constitution ensures the State is distinct from religious power structures.
Key Takeaway: Indian Secularism ensures that the State has no religion of its own and guarantees Fundamental Rights (Articles 25–28) to individuals to freely practice their faith, distinguishing it from a theocratic system where State and religious powers are merged.