Right to Freedom of Religion (Article 25 – 28)

Introduction

The right to freedom of religion is a fundamental human right that is enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). This right is essential for the full development of the individual and for the promotion of tolerance and understanding between different religions and cultures.

The UDHR states that “everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance.”

This right is also guaranteed in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which has been ratified by over 160 countries. The ICCPR states that “no one shall be subject to coercion which would impair his freedom to have or to adopt a religion or belief of his choice.”

Article 25 of the Indian Constitution

The right to freedom of religion is also guaranteed in the Indian Constitution. Article 25 of the Indian Constitution states that “subject to public order, morality and health and to the other provisions of this Part, all persons are equally entitled to freedom of conscience and the right freely to profess, practice and propagate religion.”

This right is further elaborated in Articles 26 to 28 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantee the right to establish and maintain religious institutions, the right to manage religious affairs, the right to religious education, and the right to freedom from religious taxes.

The Right to Freedom of Religion in Practice

The right to freedom of religion is a complex and multifaceted issue. In some countries, this right is fully respected and protected. In other countries, however, this right is severely restricted or even denied.

There are a number of factors that can affect the right to freedom of religion, including the following:

• The political system of the country
• The religious composition of the population
• The history of the country
• The level of economic development
• The role of religion in society

In some countries, the right to freedom of religion is restricted by the government. For example, in some countries, the government may restrict the activities of religious groups or individuals. In other countries, the government may impose restrictions on religious dress or symbols.

In some countries, the right to freedom of religion is restricted by the majority religion. For example, in some countries, the majority religion may discriminate against minority religions. In other countries, the majority religion may impose its beliefs and practices on minority religions.

In some countries, the right to freedom of religion is restricted by social norms. For example, in some countries, there may be social pressure to conform to the majority religion. In other countries, there may be social stigma associated with practicing a minority religion.

Conclusion

The right to freedom of religion is a fundamental human right that is essential for the full development of the individual and for the promotion of tolerance and understanding between different religions and cultures. This right is guaranteed in the UDHR, the ICCPR, and the Indian Constitution. However, the right to freedom of religion is often restricted in practice. There are a number of factors that can affect the right to freedom of religion, including the political system of the country, the religious composition of the population, the history of the country, the level of economic development, and the role of religion in society.