Abolition of Untouchability under Article 17.
Explanation
The Indian Constitution adopts a unique model of secularism characterized by "principled distance." Unlike the Western model, which mandates a strict separation between Church and State, the Indian State is constitutionally empowered to intervene in religious affairs to reform social evils, eradicate discriminatory practices, and uphold Fundamental Rights.
Detailed Analysis:
- Construction of religious shrines by the government. is incorrect: The construction of religious shrines by the government implies State promotion of a specific religion, which generally contradicts the secular nature of the Indian State. It does not constitute an intervention to end a social practice.
- Abolition of Untouchability under Article 17. is correct: Article 17 of the Constitution abolishes "Untouchability" and forbids its practice in any form. Untouchability was a deep-rooted social practice sanctioned by certain rigid religious interpretations. The State intervened through the Constitution to ban this practice to ensure equality and human dignity. This serves as a primary example of the State intervening in the religious sphere to end a regressive social practice.
- Declaration of public holidays for religious festivals. is incorrect: The declaration of public holidays for religious festivals represents the State's policy of religious accommodation and equal respect for all religions, rather than an intervention to reform or end a practice.
- Collection of taxes for the maintenance of religious sites. is incorrect: Article 27 prohibits the State from compelling any person to pay taxes for the promotion or maintenance of any particular religion. This is a restriction on State power, not an intervention to end a social practice.
Key Takeaway:
Indian secularism allows the State to intervene in religious matters to secure social justice and reform, as exemplified by the abolition of Untouchability (Article 17) and the opening of Hindu religious institutions of a public character to all classes of Hindus (Article 25).