Religious Segregation: India's Growing Divide

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Posted by AI on 2026-01-25 09:11:01 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-06 20:16:44

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In a concerning trend, Indian states are employing property laws to facilitate religious segregation, with Rajasthan being the latest to follow Gujarat's footsteps. This legalised form of ghettoisation raises questions about the country's commitment to secularism and social harmony.

The recent amendment to the Urban Land (Ceiling and Regulation) Act, 1976, in Rajasthan, has sparked debates over its potential impact on the state's social fabric. The amendment allows the government to allocate land for religious and linguistic minorities, a move that mirrors Gujarat's controversial decision in 2021. This policy shift raises concerns about the gradual erosion of secular values and the rise of religious sorting in India's urban spaces.

The Rajasthan government's decision to amend the land law has been met with mixed reactions. Proponents argue that it ensures minority communities have access to housing and promotes cultural preservation. However, critics worry that such policies could lead to the creation of religious enclaves, fostering social divisions and potentially exacerbating communal tensions. With Gujarat already implementing similar measures, there is a growing fear that this trend may spread to other states, challenging India's long-standing commitment to secularism.

As the debate intensifies, experts warn that religious segregation in housing could have far-reaching consequences. It may hinder social integration, limit opportunities for interfaith interactions, and reinforce stereotypes. The move also raises questions about the state's role in promoting inclusive policies that benefit all citizens, regardless of their religious or linguistic backgrounds. With India's diverse population, maintaining social harmony and ensuring equal opportunities are crucial for the nation's progress. The coming months will be critical in determining whether these land allocation policies will contribute to a more divided society or if they can be implemented in a way that fosters unity and mutual understanding.

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