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Judicial Regulation of Religious Practices in India

Faith, Rights, and the Constitution: Recent Judicial Interventions Explained

Introduction Religious diversity is one of the defining features of India. The Constitution guarantees freedom of religion while simultaneously committing the State to equality, dignity, and secular governance. This dual commitment often brings courts into sensitive disputes involving rituals, temple management, and denominational rights. Recent judicial observations—particularly from the Madras High Court—have once again highlighted…

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Vande Mataram Row Explained

Vande Mataram Row Explained: History, Constitutional Status, and Contemporary Debate

Introduction “Vande Mataram” occupies a unique emotional and historical place in India’s freedom struggle. Revered by many as a symbol of resistance against colonial rule, the song continues to evoke patriotic sentiment across generations. However, despite its national significance, it has repeatedly been at the centre of political and social debates. Recent controversies surrounding its…

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Religiosity and Communalism in India

Religiosity and Communalism in India: From Personal Faith to Political Identity

Introduction Religion has always occupied an important place in Indian society. From ancient spiritual traditions to everyday social practices, faith has shaped values, identities, and community life. However, religion can manifest in different ways. While religiosity reflects personal faith and spiritual engagement, communalism represents the politicization of religious identity, often leading to social division and…

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Indian Secularism in Comparison with Western Traditions

Understanding Indian Secularism in Comparison with Western Traditions

Introduction Secularism is widely regarded as a foundational principle of modern democratic states, ensuring freedom of religion and equality of all citizens. However, secularism does not carry a single universal meaning. Different societies have shaped it according to their historical experiences, cultural diversity, and political needs. India and the Western world represent two distinct models…

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Regionalism in India

Regionalism in India: A Consequence of Rising Cultural Assertiveness?

Introduction India is a civilization marked by extraordinary diversity. Its social fabric is woven from multiple languages, religions, ethnic traditions, and historical experiences. This diversity has given rise to rich cultural identities at regional levels. Alongside national consciousness, strong regional loyalties have developed over time. These loyalties sometimes express themselves as regionalism—a sentiment where people…

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Multicultural Indian Society

Has Caste Lost Its Relevance? Understanding Its Role in Multicultural Indian Society

Introduction India is globally recognized for its extraordinary cultural diversity, marked by variations in language, religion, region, ethnicity, and social customs. Among these dimensions, caste has historically been one of the most influential organizing principles of Indian society. Originating in ancient social stratification systems, caste structured occupation, social interaction, marriage, and access to resources. With…

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Role of the Moderates in Wider Freedom Movement

The Role of the Moderates in Preparing the Base for India’s Wider Freedom Movement

Introduction The Indian freedom struggle was not a spontaneous outburst but the culmination of a long and organized process of political awakening, social consciousness, and national unity. The foundation of this grand movement was laid by the Moderates, the early leaders of the Indian National Congress (INC), who worked tirelessly between 1885 and 1905 to…

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pcs magazine

The Historical Evolution of the Office of the Vice President in India and Its Changing Role

The office of the Vice President of India is a crucial constitutional position that has evolved over time. While initially conceived as a ceremonial role, its functions and influence have grown, especially in its capacity as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. This article examines the historical development of the Vice President’s office, its…

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pcs magazine

The Office of the Vice President of India: Ceremonial or Functional?

Introduction The Vice President of India is the second-highest constitutional office in the country, acting as a link between the executive and legislative branches. However, a long-standing debate persists regarding whether the role is merely ceremonial or if it holds substantive responsibilities. The Indian Constitution, historical precedents, and political developments shape the understanding of this…

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pcs magazine

Removal of the Vice President of India: Procedure and Accountability

Introduction The Vice President of India holds a significant constitutional position, serving as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha and the second-highest dignitary in the country. While the Vice President does not have extensive executive powers, the Indian Constitution provides a structured procedure for their removal, ensuring accountability and maintaining the integrity of the…

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