Constitution of India, 1949
25. Freedom of conscience and free profession,
practice and propagation of religion.-
(1) 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.
(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 reference to Hindus shall be construed as including a reference to
persons professing the Sikh, Jaina or Buddhist religion, and the reference to
Hindu religious institutions shall be construed accordingly.