Individual level:

Every citizen of India has a right to follow his religious beliefs and practice and promote it peacefully. But simultaneously, secularism demands that the individual must be tolerant of others’ beliefs and practices and should not practice any religious discrimination.

Society level:

Secularism at society level can be understood by Indian philosophy of ‘Sarva Dharma Sambhav’ (all Dharmas (truths) are equal to or harmonious with each other). Indian societies have great religious diversity and peaceful coexistence is only possible when all religions are respectful and tolerant of other religions. Almost all communal riots are a result of people of one religion taking an antagonistic stance against other religions or people of other religions.

State level:

India is a secular state where all religions are treated equally, and people of all religions are treated equally. The State does not promote officially any religion as state religion. The objective is to uphold Indian philosophy of peaceful religious coexistence, and not allow any community to dominate other. Despite the multifarious religions and conflicting beliefs, Indian state has mostly been exemplary in upholding secularism.

Complementary nature:

The idea of secularism is complementary at all three levels because the individuals live and act within society, while society exists to serve individuals. State links individuals to groups and organisations, and establishes balance and reconciliation between them. The secular ideals at the three levels must combine in such a way as to enhance or emphasize the qualities of each other or another.