Article 28 related to what?
VerifiedAnswer: Freedom as to attendance at religious instruction or religious worship in certain educational institutions
Explanation:
Article 28 of the Indian Constitution is a crucial provision that protects the secular character of education in our country. This article ensures that students are not forced to participate in religious activities against their will or the will of their families in educational institutions.
The article has two main clauses that work together to protect students' rights. The first clause states that no religious instruction can be provided in any educational institution that is wholly maintained by government funds. This means that in government schools, colleges, and universities, there cannot be any mandatory religious teaching as part of the curriculum.
The second clause extends this protection to educational institutions that receive government aid, even if they are not entirely government-funded. It clearly states that no student can be compelled to attend religious instruction or worship in such institutions without their consent or the consent of their guardian if they are minors.
This provision is particularly important in India's diverse religious landscape. It ensures that students from different faiths can pursue their education without feeling pressured to participate in religious practices that conflict with their beliefs. For example, if a Christian student is studying in a Hindu-majority school that receives government funding, they cannot be forced to participate in Hindu religious ceremonies or prayers.
However, it's important to understand that Article 28 doesn't prohibit religious education entirely. Private educational institutions that don't receive government aid are free to provide religious instruction. Additionally, the study of religion as an academic subject, such as comparative religion or religious history, is permitted even in government institutions as long as it's taught objectively without promoting any particular faith.
The practical implementation of Article 28 means that morning prayers in government schools should be non-denominational or optional, textbooks cannot promote any specific religion, and festivals celebrated in institutions should respect the diversity of all students. This creates an environment where education remains the primary focus, free from religious bias or coercion.
