(1.) The challenge in the present appeals is to an order passed by the Full Bench of the Karnataka High Court on 15/3/2022, dismissing the challenge to the Government Order dtd. 5/2/2022. Such Government Order directed the Government Schools in Karnataka to abide by the prescribed uniform, and the private schools were directed to mandate a uniform as decided by their Board of Management.
(2.) Before adverting to the submissions made by the counsels on both sides, it is imperative to give a background of the ethos and principles of secularism adopted in the Constitution of India. Though the term 'secular' has a wide amplitude and has been understood differently in different parts of the world, it is important to comprehend the same in context of the Indian Constitution.
(3.) The word "secular" is now part of the Preamble of the Constitution. What is meant by "Secular"