What Is Constitution Of India Article 26?

Constitution Of India Article 26: Freedom To Manage Religious Affairs

26. Freedom to manage religious affairs.

• Subject to public order, morality, and health, every religious denomination or any section thereof shall have the right—
  • (a) to establish and maintain institutions for religious and charitable purposes;
  • (b) to manage its own affairs in matters of religion;
  • (c) to own and acquire movable and immovable property; and
  • (d) to administer such property in accordance with law.

Brief Detail

Article 26 ensures that every religious denomination or a section thereof has the freedom to establish and maintain institutions for religious and charitable purposes, manage their religious affairs, and own and administer property, subject to public order, morality, and health.

Question

Q1: What rights does Article 26 grant to religious denominations?

A1: Article 26 grants religious denominations the rights to establish and maintain religious and charitable institutions, manage their own religious affairs, own and acquire property, and administer such property according to law.

Example

Example 1: A religious community setting up a temple or a charitable trust is protected under Article 26.

Example 2: Managing religious rituals and ceremonies within a denomination's temple is also a right under Article 26.

Summary

Article 26 safeguards the autonomy of religious denominations in managing their religious and charitable activities while ensuring adherence to public order, morality, and health.