The right to Freedom of Religion gives Every person the freedom to profess, propagate and practice their religion freely. No one can be compelled to pay taxes for promoting any religion.
Fundamental Rights
The independence of many Asian and African nations did not result in the establishment of democracy and liberal institutions in all countries. The United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on 10th December 1948 which stressed providing basic rights to humans. The Constitution of India incorporated the basic human rights from the French Revolution and the American Constitution. Fundamental rights are included in the Constitution of India in Part III, Articles 12−35.
Right to Freedom of Religion (Articles 25−28)
- Every person is free to profess, propagate and practise their religion.
- He/she has the right to establish and maintain institutions for religious and charitable purposes.
- Citizens have the right to manage their own affairs in religious matters.
- They have the right to acquire property and to administer such property.
- No one can be compelled to pay taxes for promoting any religion.
- No religious instructions should be provided in any institution which is maintained partly or fully out of State funds.
Limitations on the Fundamental Rights
Fundamental rights are not absolute keeping in mind the general welfare of the people. These are
- Fundamental rights could be suspended during emergency. The rights of citizens are restored as soon as emergency is over.
- The Parliament has the power to modify the application of fundamental rights to the members of the armed forces, police forces or intelligence organisations so that they are able to ensure proper discharge of their duties and maintain discipline among them.
- Laws such as Defence of India Act and National Security Act curtail the use of the fundamental rights to safeguard the interests of the nation.
- Fundamental rights can be suspended when emergency is declared by the President under Article 352. During emergency, the legislature can frame any laws. Citizens have no protection against the executive or legislative authorities.
- Also Read Fundamental Duties