Part III - Fundamental Rights • Article

Article 26 Simplified: Freedom to manage religious affairs

Article 26 gives religious groups (like a temple committee or a church board) the right to run their own affairs. They can own land, build buildings, and decide how their rituals are performed without the government interfering, as long as they don't break laws of peace or health.

Official Text

Subject to public order, morality and health, every religious denomination or any section thereof shall have the right— (a) to establish and maintain institutions for religious and charitable purposes; (b) to manage its own affairs in matters of religion; (c) to own and acquire movable and immovable property; and (d) to administer such property in accordance with law.

Simple Meaning

Explain Like Ten

It lets religious groups manage their own places, property, and religious work, as long as they follow public order, morality, and health.

Student Mode

Guarantees collective religious freedom for 'religious denominations' to establish and maintain institutions, manage their own affairs in matters of religion, and own/administer property.

Example

A religious trust has the right to decide how to spend the donations it receives for a festival, as long as it follows basic financial and safety laws.

Key Takeaway

Religious groups have the freedom to manage their own institutions.

FAQs

Who can manage religious institutions?

Every religious denomination or any section thereof has the right to establish and maintain institutions for religious and charitable purposes.

What is a 'Denomination'?

A group within a religion that has a distinct name and common organization (e.g., Ramakrishna Mission).

Can the government take over a temple?

The government can regulate financial or secular activities of a temple, but not the core religious practices.

Can a denomination own land?

Yes, Article 26(c) gives them the right to own and acquire movable and immovable property.

Quiz

Groups (denominations) have rights under:

Answer: Art 26

Denominations can manage which affairs?

Answer: Religious Affairs

Can a religious group own a building?

Answer: Yes

Art 26 applies to which level?

Answer: Collective/Groups