Correct Option
The correct option is (a) 1 only.
Explanation
The relationship between the State and religion is a central theme in secular democracies. It involves balancing the authority of the State with the freedom of religious practice, ensuring that the State does not become an instrument of religious oppression or privilege.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: When a State accords official recognition to a specific religion, it institutionalizes a preference for that faith. This structural bias often leads to the marginalization of other religious communities. Consequently, acts of discrimination-such as unequal access to resources, legal bias, or social exclusion-are statistically and theoretically more likely to occur in theocratic or non-secular states compared to secular ones.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: While the separation of State and religion is a crucial mechanism to prevent the tyranny of the majority, it is not the sole mechanism. Preventing the tyranny of the majority also requires robust constitutional safeguards, such as Fundamental Rights, an independent judiciary, the Rule of Law, and specific provisions for the protection of minorities. Mere separation does not guarantee the absence of social tyranny or majoritarian dominance in the absence of these other checks.
Key Takeaway: State recognition of a specific religion inherently risks discrimination against non-adherents. However, preventing majoritarian tyranny requires a comprehensive framework involving not just the separation of State and religion, but also the active enforcement of Fundamental Rights and constitutional protections.