The Use of Religious Propaganda in Indian Politics: A Threat to Secularism and Human Rights

ANISHA BANO; Rahul D Chouhan

The Use of Religious Propaganda in Indian Politics: A Threat to Secularism and Human Rights

Author(s)	Ms. ANISHA BANO, Mr. Rahul D Chouhan
Country	India
Abstract	Religion and politics have long been intertwined in India’s complex socio-political fabric. While the Indian Constitution enshrines secularism as a foundational principle, the increasing use of religious propaganda by political actors poses a serious threat to the nation’s democratic and human rights commitments. Political mobilization based on religious identity, sectarian appeals during elections, and the strategic deployment of communal narratives have not only deepened societal divisions but also undermined the Constitutional guarantees of equality, freedom of conscience, and non-discrimination.This paper critically examines the phenomenon of religious propaganda in Indian politics, tracing its historical roots and evaluating its contemporary manifestations. It explores how political parties and leaders manipulate religious sentiments to consolidate vote banks, often at the expense of national unity and social harmony. The paper also analyzes the legal framework intended to curb such practices, including the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code, while highlighting the limitations and enforcement challenges. Through an assessment of landmark judicial pronouncements, including Abhiram Singh v. C.D. Commachen (2017), this study assesses the judiciary’s role in protecting secularism and promoting communal amity. Furthermore, it discusses the role of media and digital platforms in amplifying religious propaganda, creating echo chambers that further polarize public opinion. Drawing upon international human rights standards, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the paper underscores India’s obligations to prevent hate speech and religious discrimination. Finally, it proposes measures such as stricter electoral reforms, enhanced regulation of hate speech, and proactive civic education to counter the divisive politics of religion.The paper argues that safeguarding secularism is imperative not only for maintaining India’s Constitutional integrity but also for protecting the fundamental human rights of all its citizens.
Keywords	Secularism, Religious Propaganda, Indian Politics, Human Rights, Communalism, Electoral Reforms, Hate Speech, Constitution of India, Freedom of Religion, Political Polarization
Field	Sociology > Administration / Law / Management
Published In	Volume 7, Issue 3, May-June 2025
Published On	2025-05-13

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The Use of Religious Propaganda in Indian Politics: A Threat to Secularism and Human Rights

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