Understanding State Intervention in Religion via the Indian Constitution

The Indian Constitution, while guaranteeing religious freedom, also empowers the state to intervene in religious matters under certain circumstances. This intervention is primarily aimed at achieving social reform, ensuring public order, morality, health, and equality. Let's analyze the given options in the context of state intervention in religion:

Analysis of Options and Constitutional Provisions

• (a) Abolition of untouchability: This is a prime example of state intervention in religion. Article 17 of the Indian Constitution explicitly abolishes untouchability and forbids its practice in any form. Untouchability was often justified through religious scriptures and traditions. By abolishing it, the state directly intervened to reform social practices deeply rooted in religious customs, promoting equality and social justice.
• (b) Prohibition of child Labour: While child labor is prohibited by the Constitution (Article 24) and various laws, this is primarily seen as an intervention related to labor rights, child welfare, and public health/safety. It is not typically classified as direct state intervention in religion, although specific religious practices might sometimes be associated with child labor. The primary objective is secular welfare, not religious reform.
• (c) Ban on child marriage: Child marriage has historically been prevalent in India, often justified by religious traditions or customs. The Constitution upholds the dignity of individuals (Article 21) and allows for social reform. Laws like the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, represent state intervention that overrides religious customs permitting or encouraging child marriage. This is done to protect children and ensure social reform, aligning with the state's power to regulate secular aspects associated with religious practices (as per Article 25(2)).
• (d) Laying out Vishakha guidelines: The Vishakha guidelines were established by the Supreme Court of India to address sexual harassment at the workplace. While crucial for gender equality and workplace safety, these guidelines are a result of judicial intervention based on fundamental rights (like Article 14 and 15) and are not typically considered direct state intervention in religion.

Conclusion on State Intervention Examples

Based on the analysis, the abolition of untouchability (a) and the ban on child marriage (c) are clear instances where the Indian Constitution permits or mandates the state to intervene in practices that were historically associated with or justified by religion, in order to bring about social reform and ensure fundamental rights and equality.

Therefore, the options representing intervention in religion by state are (a) and (c).