Constitutional Perspective of Multiculturalism in India
10 Pages Posted: 16 Feb 2007
Date Written: February 15, 2007
Abstract
Is multiculturalism a constitutional ethos? Or is an addition to existing elements of constitutionalism? Choice of answer is a matter of debate now because proliferation of multiculturalism is seen as a counterforce to a number of political and societal problems like terrorism. The paradigm of multiculturalism is based on positive equality wherein state endeavours to treat people equal and make them equal. Encouraging multiculturalism necessarily includes recognition of a number of political, social and economic rights of inhabitants in the given territory. In panoply it appears that for any analysis of the nature or impacts of multiculturalism assessment of constitutional design is a sine qua non. The Constitution of India indeed proclaims unity in diversity but not much diversion exists in the cultural/racial/ethnic base. If multiculturalism is a norm, it must be recognized through constitutional mandate and if it is an executive principle then it needs statutory recognition. The seeds of multiculturalism as sown in the perambulatory resolve of the Constitution have been largely pruned and trimmed by subsequent constitutional provisions and statutory mandates.
Keywords: Multiculturalism, Constitution, Liberty, Multicultural Rights, Separatist tendencies
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