The Role of Religion in Addressing Contemporary Social and Political Issues in India

Abstract Religion plays a major role in the life of Indian society and politics. India is among the most religiously diverse countries in the world, and hence its engagement with the contemporary questions of the day—communal harmony, caste injustice, gender equality and democratic governance—is shaped profoundly by religious tradition and institutions. This paper discusses the role of religion in relation to such concerns, drawing attention to the positive and problematic dimensions of it. The research examines religion’s role in social reform, interfaith relations, political mobilization, and governance in India. It argues that while religion often perpetuates social divisions when politicized, it also provides powerful frameworks for justice, compassion, and solidarity.