Equal respect for all religions
Also called: Sarva dharma sambhava · Topic: Secularism: Western and Indian Models · NCERT: Class 11, Ch 8 "Secularism"
Meaning
"Equal respect for all religions" (sarva dharma sambhava) is a popular slogan for Indian secularism. NCERT (Class 11, Secularism) calls it inadequate for two reasons. First, mere coexistence (living side by side) is not enough; secularism also demands equality and freedom. Second, the state does not have to respect every practice of every religion, such as caste hierarchy. The slogan would even be satisfied by "equal disrespect" for all religions.
Example
The Indian state does not respect untouchability just because some people once treated it as a religious custom. It abolished untouchability under Art. 17, and under Art. 25(2)(b) it opened Hindu temples of a public character to all.
Don't confuse with
- Principled distance: Rajeev Bhargava's term. The state keeps a distance from all religions but may step in or stay out, help or hold back, depending on what best serves freedom, equality and peace. It does not mean treating every religion identically.