Reinterpreting Article 25: Religious Freedom and the Changing Nature of Secularism in Contemporary India

Yashnita Nambiar

Abstract: This paper investigates the evolving interpretation of Article 25 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion, within the framework of contemporary political shifts. Through critical examination of landmark events, including the Ayodhya verdict, the Karnataka Hijab ban, and the Citizenship Amendment Act, the study explores whether India's constitutional secularism is being reshaped by majoritarian influences. Drawing from judicial rulings, media analysis, and NGO reports, the paper assesses the tension between religious freedom and political ideology, ultimately questioning the neutrality of the Indian State in religious matters.

Keywords: Article 25, religious freedom, Indian secularism, Hindutva politics, constitutional interpretation

How to Cite?: Yashnita Nambiar, "Reinterpreting Article 25: Religious Freedom and the Changing Nature of Secularism in Contemporary India", Volume 14 Issue 7, July 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1514-1516, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25723224504, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25723224504