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This webpage offers a database of English-language news stories about secularism beginning in January 2023. Users can search by date, country of origin, or topic. Top stories are featured at the top of the page.

4 March 2025

This article explains the political and social tensions between Quebec and Canada in light of the contestation of Bill 21. The federal government plans to intervene in the Supreme Court of Canada's leave to appeal Quebec's secular law. The federal government has asserted its vested interest in the case. Justice Canada has filed a notice on behalf of the Attorney General to highlight the government's distinct interest as an intervenor.

By City News

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All News
Title
Date
Journal
Summary
Year-Ender 2024: India Sees 84% Surge In Communal Riots, Maharashtra Tops List Followed By Uttar Pradesh And Bihar, Reveals CSSS Report
31/12/2024
The Free Press Journal
This article examines the prevalence of communal riots in Maharashtra, which has experienced the highest incidence of such unrest, followed by Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. This analysis is contextualized within the ongoing discourse surrounding religious beliefs and accusations related to cow vigilantism, particularly about the values upheld by Hindu communities.
Deeply malicious: Kerala CM on Nitesh Rane’s ‘mini Pakistan’ remarks
31/12/2024
Siasat
This article discusses the controversy surrounding a Maharashtra minister’s comments on hate speech and campaigns amid calls for greater secular influence and communal harmony.
As world cheers the restored Notre-Dame, other French churches decay
30/12/2024
The Art Newspaper
This article analyzes the increasing prevalence of secularism and the concomitant decline in the number of churches. Despite this trend, the organization Observatoire du Patrimoine Religieux has successfully raised over 16.7 million euros with the aim of establishing 100 new churches within the country.
Ambedkar and Congress: The real culprits of the sacred document
30/12/2024
Organiser
This article addresses the ongoing discussion regarding the significance of the terms 'secular' and 'socialist' in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution. There is a prevailing opinion that the Congress party has not fully adhered to the Constitution’s foundational principles, particularly its commitment to secularism within the nation.
Arunachal to frame rules to implement the Act to curbs religious conversion
29/12/2024
Deccan Chronicle
This article explores the proposal by the Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP) to prohibit religious conversions undertaken through coercion, inducement, or deceptive practices. The initiative reflects a commitment to safeguarding indigenous religious beliefs while upholding secular values.
Kyrgyzstan introduces bill regulating religious practices and imposing niqab ban
29/12/2024
Daryo
This article addresses the recent approval by the Parliament of Kyrgyzstan of a draft law concerning freedom of religion and religious associations. The legislation introduces several restrictions on religious practices and attire, which merit careful consideration and discussion.
Travesty of justice': Former SC judge on top court's Ram mandir judgement
28/12/2024
MSN
This article analyzes the criticism made by Former Supreme Court Justice RF Nariman regarding the 2019 Ayodhya verdict. He described the decision as a "travesty of justice," highlighting its failure to uphold the principles of secularism.
Kyrgyzstan’s parliament approves a ban on wearing niqab in public places
27/12/2024
Asia Plus
The article discusses the recent legislative action taken by Kyrgyzstan, which involves the approval of a bill imposing a fine of $230 on women who wear the niqab, a face veil commonly worn by some Muslim women, in public spaces and government buildings. This decision has generated various responses and debates regarding cultural practices and individual rights within the country.
Kanthapuram urges political parties to uphold secularism
27/12/2024
The Hindu
This article analyzes the efforts of Grand Mufti Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliar, who advocates for political parties to uphold the principle of secularism. His objective is to preserve the country's long-established secular values, which are crucial to its social and cultural fabric.
Nehruvian Secularism and the Man against it
27/12/2024
Hindu Post
This article discusses Sita Ram Goel, a notable Indian historian and political thinker, who was a strong critic of Nehruvian secularism. Goel viewed Nehruvian secularism as a misrepresentation of true secular values, which he believed aimed to undermine Hinduism. He argued that secularism, in its original Western context, arose as a reaction against theocratic rule, particularly that of Christianity. This led to the promotion of a separation between religion and state, fostering individual freedoms and pluralism.
New CJI, rulings on personal liberty, places of worship: Key events in Supreme Court
26/12/2024
The Economic Times
This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the landmark decisions issued by the Indian Supreme Court. It highlights the establishment of guidelines for "bulldozer" justice and the subsequent prohibition on all courts from adjudicating disputes related to religious sites.
Bloq Quebecois MP accused Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown of interfering in Quebec politics during foreign interference probe
26/12/2024
Brampton Guardian
This article provides an analysis of Mayor Patrick Brown's remarks concerning Quebec politics, focusing on the issues of secularism and Bill 21. It also addresses allegations of foreign election interference attributed to the Indian government.
CDN schools among 17 investigated for Bill 21 violations
25/12/2024
The Suburban
This article reports that Quebec's Education Minister, Bernard Drainville, has announced an investigation into 17 schools in the province, including three in Montreal: École La Voie, École Bienville, and École Saint-Pascal-Baylon. These schools are being examined for their apparent non-compliance with the province’s Secularism Law, known as Bill 21. Drainville has expressed intentions to legislate further if necessary to reinforce secularism in schools.
In First, Israel's Education Ministry Surveys Students on Their Jewish Values and Degree of National Pride
24/12/2024
Haaretz
This article discusses the recent initiative by Israel's Education Ministry, which has distributed a survey aimed at gauging students' perspectives on Jewish values and national pride. The questionnaire is intended to stimulate dialogue regarding the potential implications of its content in depicting Israel as a religious Jewish state, as noted by a source within the ministry.
Azerbaijani family model built on national identity and religious values
23/12/2024
Trend News
This article provides an analysis of the conviction of eight individuals by France's antiterrorism court for their involvement in the tragic death of teacher Samuel Paty. The court's ruling highlighted the significance of France's secular values within the context of the case.
Religion in the time of uncertainties
23/12/2024
The Indian Express
This article provides a comprehensive examination of the historical influence of religion and the theme of unification in India. It does so within the context of the rising calls for secularism, analyzing key historical events and relevant texts related to religion.
Azerbaijani President: Our country free from discrimination or conflict on religious grounds
23/12/2024
Azertac
This article discusses the speech delivered by President Ilham Aliyev during the Forum of Religious Figures of Azerbaijan. In his address, he underscored the values of tolerance that are deeply rooted in the nation's history, emphasizing the absence of religious discrimination and conflict within the country. The forum centered on the significance of religious enlightenment and the exploration of future prospects for fostering interreligious dialogue.
Secular framework eroded Hindu institutions
22/12/2024
Times of India
This article explores the secular framework in relation to Hindu cultural heritage and examines the ensuing debates regarding the division of Hindu institutions. It analyzes how secularism interacts with and affects the preservation and evolution of Hindu traditions, as well as the implications of creating divisions within these institutions.
Muslim leaders welcome Bhagwat’s temple-mosque remarks
21/12/2024
Awaz the Voice
The article delves into the ongoing debates among political leaders regarding the emergence of new Hindu sites, particularly in relation to the Bhagwat's mosque and temple. The discussion highlights the complexities surrounding these cultural and religious locations and their significance in contemporary political discourse.
French court issues severe sentences to those linked to beheading of teacher Samuel Paty
21/12/2024
RFI
This article analyzes the recent conviction of eight individuals by France's antiterrorism court in connection with the death of teacher Samuel Paty. The court emphasized the importance of the country's secular values in its proceedings and judgment.
Quebec Premier's Prayer Ban Plan Sparks Secular Debate
20/12/2024
MSN
This article explores the ongoing debate in Quebec concerning the proposal to restrict public prayers as a means of maintaining the secular mandate. The discourse focuses on the balance between religious expression in public spaces and the principles of secular law.
SC Direction On Worship Act Balances Secularism & Hindutva Narratives
19/12/2024
The Free Press Journal
This article explains how the recent Supreme Court decision on the Worship Act aims to balance both secularism and Hindutva values within Indian society.
Supreme Court Upholds Secularism and National Unity
19/12/2024
Brighter Kashmir
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the interplay between secularism and religion in India, emphasizing the distinct influences derived from other secular models.
Inclusive Secularism
18/12/2024
The Economic Times
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the interplay between secularism and religion in India, emphasizing the distinct influences derived from other secular models.
Quebec Premier Aims to Ban Public Prayers
17/12/2024
MSN
This article provides an analysis of Premier Legault's proposal to prohibit public prayers in Quebec. The initiative has sparked significant discussion regarding personal freedom and its implications for the understanding of secularism in the province.
In Ajaccio, Pope Francis advocates 'Corsican-style' secularism
16/12/2024
La Croix International
This article explains how Pope Francis has called for a Corsian-style of secularism in order to reinforce healthy values.
The Indian state is unfair to Hindus. What we found might surprise you.
16/12/2024
Swarajya
This article describes the influence of Indian secularism specific to its unstrict seperation between religion and state. Many have criticized this component of Indian secularism as a tool used to advance unequal treatment of religions.
After religious symbols law, Quebec eyes ban on public prayer: Where the province is headed on secularism
16/12/2024
CBC News
This article examines how the Quebec government is planning to ban prayers in public spaces. This new prohibition is understood to be an advnacement to strengthen the secular laws.
Bengal Minister takes ‘secular’ vow after saying Muslims will become majority
15/12/2024
The Hindu
This article explains how the Bengladesh Minister, Firhad Hakim, reaffirms the country's secular mandate in light of opposition from religious Muslim groups.
Pope Francis calls for unity and 'dynamic' secularism in first visit to Corsica
15/12/2024
France 24
This article examines how Pope Francis is calling for unity urging local priests to avoid political divisions and France's secular influence.
Forces inimical to secularism in office, says DMK; BJP protests
14/12/2024
The Times of India
This article explores the ongoing discourse regarding secularism as reflected in the preamble of the Indian Constitution. A significant aspect of this debate involves Articles 15, 26, and 28, which explicitly prohibit discrimination based on religion. This brings to the forefront the complexities surrounding the two-nation theory.
Congress introduced one-way secularism in country: BJP’s Tejasvi Surya in LS
14/12/2024
Indian Express
This article explores the debate surrounding "one-way secularism" in India, where both secularism and pluralism are often overlooked in the socio-political landscape.
Quebec Premier Aims to Ban Public Prayers
14/12/2024
MSN
This article examines the debate over the visibility of religious practices in public spaces in light of the recent Quebec government's plan to restrict public prayer.
Quebec considers banning public prayers
13/12/2024
La Croix International
This article explores the increasing challenges to secularism in educational environments, which have led to the recent initiative by Quebec Premier François Legault to prohibit prayers in public spaces. This proposal has drawn considerable opposition, with critics arguing that it may infringe upon individuals' religious freedoms.
On secularism, there is no going ‘back to the future’
12/12/2024
Hindustan Times
This article addresses the discourse surrounding secularism in the context of the increasing number of non-Muslim immigrants seeking refuge from religious persecution.
Explainer: Places of Worship Act — key test of secularism in top court
12/12/2024
The Tribune
This article discusses the initiation of hearings by a three-judge Special Bench regarding the challenge to the validity of the Places of Worship Act. This examination is set against the backdrop of ongoing disputes concerning religious sites in India.
Quebec investigates 3 Montreal schools for religious concerns
11/12/2024
CityNews
This article discusses the ongoing investigation of three French schools in Montreal. The investigation centers on audits conducted in response to concerns related to religious practices and allegations of abuse associated with these practices.
Quebec to investigate three schools over toxic climate allegations
11/12/2024
Global News
This article addresses the ongoing investigations of three French-language schools in Montreal. These inquiries have been prompted by recent audits that examined the quality of services provided and the adherence to secular laws within the educational institutions.
Islamists in Bangladesh attack secularism, Bengali culture
10/12/2024
Economic Times
This article explores the challenges to secularism in Bangladesh and analyzes the evolving socio-political landscape within the country.
Secularism in Morocco: Multiple Views, Timid Consensus
10/12/2024
Morocco World News
This article discusses Moroccan secularism as a unique model where religious freedom and pluralism coexist harmoniously with the nation's Islamic identity.
Bangladesh and the Burial of Secularism
09/12/2024
The Times Now
This article examines the tension between Muslim and Hindu citizens in Bangladesh regarding the increasing emphasis on secularism, particularly in the context of the state's alignment with Islamic principles.
Quebec premier says he wants to stop people from praying in public
08/12/2024
CBC News
This article examines how Premier François Legault is planning to utilize the notwitstanding clause to prohibit banning praying in public.
Quebec will table legislation beefing up secularism rules: Drainville
07/12/2024
The Gazette
This article analyzes proposed changes to secularism laws to strengthen secularism in Quebec.
Quebec premier proposes public prayer ban, citing secularism concerns in Canada
07/12/2024
Anadolu Ajansi
This article analyzes the announcement made by Premier Francois Legault regarding his proposal to prohibit public prayer in Quebec. The Premier has articulated concerns that such religious practices may be at odds with Canada's secular values. This initiative underscores the ongoing discourse surrounding the role of religion in public spheres and aims to strengthen the principles of secularism within Quebec society.
Quebec promises new legislation to strengthen secularism in schools, may ban prayer in public spaces
06/12/2024
CityNews
This article discusses Premier François Legault's intentions to introduce new legislation designed to reinforce secularism within educational institutions. It also explores the potential extension of this legislation to prohibit prayers in public spaces.
Secularism under siege in the Bangladesh churn
05/12/2024
Hindustan Times
This article analyzes the religious tensions in Bangladesh amidst the rise of secularism. Numerous anti-India protests are being organized, demanding a return to a secular government.
Morocco's Islamic affairs minister backtracks on describing the state as 'secular'
05/12/2024
The New Arab
This article discusses Morocco's Minister of Islamic Affairs, Ahmed Toufiq, who faced backlash from the Islamist opposition after referring to the kingdom as a "secular state." The controversy erupted following Toufiq's comments in the Moroccan parliament regarding a meeting with French interior minister Bruno Retailleau during President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Morocco in October. In response to the criticism, Toufiq later retracted his statement about secularism.
Kerala Muslim Jamaat condemns claims on centuries-old places of worship
04/12/2024
The Hindu
This article examines the ongoing debate regarding claims to historically significant places of worship, including the Shamsi Shahi Masjid in Badaun, the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, and the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. The discussion evaluates these claims to safeguard secularism and the relevance of the Places of Worship Act.
Toufiq Responds to Benkirane: Political Parties, Including PJD, Draw from Secular Western Systems
03/12/2024
Morocco World News
This article provides an analysis of the address delivered by Morocco's Minister of Islamic Affairs, which focused on the concept of secularism. The Minister articulated that secularism is fundamentally derived from Western systems, a notion that has provoked notable opposition among the Moroccan populace.
Mosques Under Siege: Are ‘Respectable Hindus’ Willing to Be Held to Account?
03/12/2024
The Wire
This article examines the Hindu-Muslim tensions arising from recent judicial decisions that impact the religious identity of the places of worship associated with Khwaja Moinuddin.
What does Bangladesh’s constitution state about religious freedom?
02/12/2024
The Hindu
This article examines the increasing concerns about religious freedom and secularism in Bangladesh. The controversy surrounding the desecration of Hindu temples has raised questions regarding minority rights and secular values.
Benkirane: Morocco is an Islamic Country, Not Secular
02/12/2024
Morocco World News
This article explores the controversy surrounding comments made by Morocco's Minister of Islamic Affairs, Ahmed Toufiq, regarding Morocco's status as a secular country.
Rajasthan Cabinet approves Anti-Conversion bill against forced conversions
01/12/2024
Buisness Standard
This article discusses the Rajasthan Cabinet's approval of the Anti-Conversion Bill aimed at preventing forced religious conversions.
Separation of church and state? Religion in public schools is being tested by Christian conservatives
01/12/2024
NBC News
This article analyzes the role of religion in public schools in Texas. Education officials have introduced an optional Bible-based curriculum in elementary schools to reintroduce religious materials for students.
Freedom Oppression: Women’s Struggle and Movement from France to Iran
30/11/2024
Modern Diplomacy
This article examines the struggle for women's movement in Iran and how many are contesting the hijab mandates.
Foundation of secularism being shaken in India
29/11/2024
The Hindu
This article explains concerns regarding the foundation of secularism being shaken after former Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud led searches in Indian mosques.
Notre-Dame reopening shows France’s bizarre religious contradiction
29/11/2024
The Connexion
This article criticizes the recent decision to reopen Notre-Dame despite the secular values in France.
India’s basic constitutional values need eternal vigilance
29/11/2024
MSN
This article addresses the concerns regarding the preservation of constitutional and secular values in India, highlighting the criticisms surrounding the misuse of secularism.
Mamata emphasises Constitution’s secular identity: ‘Together, united’
28/11/2024
The Indian News Express
This article analyzes the remarks made by the Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, regarding the Constitution, highlighting her emphasis on the secular identity of India.
Waqf Bill anti-secular, will snatch rights of Muslims: Mamata
28/11/2024
Deccan Chronicle
This article examines the debate over the Waqf Bill and rights of minorities in India. Many have criticized the Bill to be anti-secular and anti-federal.
Minister Sparks Debate, Controversy with Remarks on Moroccan Secularism
27/11/2024
Morocco World News
This article discusses the ongoing controversy surrounding the comments made by the Minister of Islamic Affairs concerning Moroccan secularism. It underscores the significant divide of opinions on this matter, illustrating both the support for and opposition to the Minister's perspective.
Why Supreme Court Refused To Delete 'Secularism' & 'Socialism' From Preamble
26/11/2024
ABP Live
This article views how the Supreme Court of India found no legitimate cause or justification for challenging the constitutional amendments to remove secularism and socialism from the its preamble.
State can interfere with religious practices if they impede development, equality rights: SC
25/11/2024
The Economic Times
This article examines the controversy over the developping religious practices in India. Many have argued that the secular nature of the state has not prevented the elimination of attitudes and practices in connection with religion.
No place for Waqf Law in Constitution’: PM Modi sparks debate over religious trusts
25/11/2024
Muslim Mirror
This article explains the controversy on the Waqf Law and Prime Minister Modi's statements on religious trusts.
Modi attacks Cong over Waqf, politics of appeasemen
24/11/2024
The Tribune
This article examines Prime Minister Modi's challenge to Congress' decision regarding the Waqf Law, arguing that it undermines secularism.
Iran: Overcoming The Regime’s Obsession With Hijab
23/11/2024
EA Worldview
This article examines the controversy over the mandatory hijab in Iran. It stems from the newly clinics for women who will not abide by the mandatory Islamic veil.
Hindu unity,”threat” to secularism?
22/11/2024
Daily Excelsior
This article examines how Hinduism is being perceived as a threat to Indian secularism with the rise of political and religious leadership.
United Nations resolution rebukes Iran’s government for systemic and escalating persecution of Baha’is and all Iranians—and calls for urgent change
21/11/2024
Iran Press Watch
This article examines the United Nations' proposed resolution over Iran's government systemic and mandatory hijab dress code.
UN resolution slams Iran rights record, urges revocation of hijab laws
20/11/2024
Iran International
This article examines how UN General Assembly passed a resolution criticizing the Islamic Republic for its human rights records with the recent mandatory hijab policies.
Ban on hijab valid, not violative of Article 25: PU College and CDC argue before Karnataka HC
19/11/2024
The Leaflet
This article analyzes the Karnataka High Court's review of the hijab ban supported by the Pre-University College and the College Development Council. Petitions claim the ban infringes on constitutional rights, and the case is being heard by Chief Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi and Justices Krishna S. Dixit and J.M. Khazi.
US Responds to Bangladesh’s Push for Constitutional Changes Amid Rising Tensions
19/11/2024
Sri Lanka Guardian
This article examines the United States acknowledgement of the recent constitutional changes regarding the recent call to eliminate secularism from the Bangladesh constitution.
Establishment of Hijab Rehabilitation Clinic in Iran with a Large State Budget
18/11/2024
Iran Focus
This article examines the Iranian regime's recent initiative, the "Hijab Rehabilitation Clinic." This program reflects the regime's use of the hijab to exert control over women, particularly those advocating for their rights. By positioning the hijab as essential to national identity, the regime aims to maintain its authority, allocating significant resources to enforce compliance.
Hijabs allowed during voter registration – emphasizes MEC
17/11/2024
Malawi 24
This article highlights the Malawi Electoral Commission's (MEC) commitment to inclusivity by allowing Muslim women to wear hijabs during the voter registration process. This policy respects cultural and religious practices, ensuring that all citizens can participate in the electoral process while maintaining their beliefs.
Military school valedictorian faces possible expulsion from Turkish army for chanting secularist slogan
16/11/2024
Turkish Minute
This article discusses the situation of Ebru Eroğlu, who was the valedictorian of the Turkish Military Academy. She may face expulsion from the Turkish Armed Forces for chanting "We are Mustafa Kemal’s soldiers" during her graduation, which was considered a violation of the secularist mandate. Eroğlu, a lieutenant, received her diploma from President Erdoğan on August 30, highlighting the ongoing tensions surrounding secularism in Turkey.
Why Bangladesh’s top judicial officer is calling for removal of ‘secularism’ from constitution
16/11/2024
The Print
This article examines the perspectives of Mohammad Asaduzzaman, the Attorney General of Bangladesh, regarding proposed constitutional amendments. Specifically, it addresses his advocacy for the removal of terms such as secularism, socialism, and nationalism from the constitution, as he argues that these concepts do not align with contemporary democratic principles.
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