What Is Constitution Of India Article 25?

Constitution Of India Article 25: Freedom Of Conscience And Free Profession, Practice And Propagation Of Religion

25. Freedom of conscience and free profession, practice and propagation of religion.

• (1) Subject to public order, morality, health, and 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.
• (2) Nothing in this article shall affect the operation of any existing law or prevent the State from making any law—
  • (a) regulating or restricting any economic, financial, political, or other secular activity which may be associated with religious practice;
  • (b) providing for social welfare and reform or the throwing open of Hindu religious institutions of a public character to all classes and sections of Hindus.

Explanation I: The wearing and carrying of kirpans shall be deemed to be included in the profession of the Sikh religion.

Explanation II: In sub-clause (b) of clause (2), the reference to Hindus shall include persons professing the Sikh, Jaina, or Buddhist religion, and the reference to Hindu religious institutions shall be construed accordingly.

Brief Detail

Article 25 guarantees every individual the freedom of conscience and the right to profess, practice, and propagate their religion. However, this freedom is subject to public order, morality, health, and other constitutional provisions. The article allows the State to regulate secular activities linked to religious practices and promote social reforms.

Question

Q1: What does Article 25 ensure?

A1: Article 25 ensures freedom of conscience and the right to profess, practice, and propagate religion, subject to public order, morality, health, and constitutional provisions.

Example

Example 1: A Sikh carrying a kirpan as part of their religious practice is protected under Article 25.

Example 2: Laws prohibiting untouchability or allowing entry to all classes into Hindu temples are examples of reforms permitted under Article 25.

Summary

Article 25 upholds the individual's right to religious freedom while allowing the State to regulate secular aspects of religion and promote social welfare and reforms for the greater public good.