Do you agree with the following statements? Give reasons for supporting or opposing any of them.

A. Secularism does not allow us to have a religious identity.

B. Secularism is against inequality within a religious group or between different religious groups.

C. Secularism has a western-Christian origin. It is not suitable for India.

A. I oppose this statement, because secularism does allow us to have a religious identity. In India the people are free to have a religious identity and choose a relation of their choice. They have a right to preserve, practice, represent and develop their religion and religious institution.

B. I support this statement, because it is true that the ideals of secularism are against inequalities within a religious group or between different religious groups. Indian government is seen to have an active role in maintaining peace and equality within various religious groups to prevent discrimination and to remove or keep a check on activities that may threat human dignity.

C. I oppose this statement, because secularism may have a western-Christian origin but that does not make it unsuitable for India. To the contrary this is most suitable for a country like India which has various religion, culture and ethnicity. India is a multi-cultural and religious society where every religion is given equal importance to maintain the integrity and harmony in the country.