Question

Which of the following is not necessary for the expression ‘religious denomination’ considered under Article 26 of the Constitution of India?

• A. Collection of individuals who have a common faith
• B. Common organization
• C. Designation of a distinctive name
• D. Common community or societal status

Hint:

For Article 26, remember the “three Ds”: Doctrine (faith), Discipline (organisation), and Designation (name).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Meaning of religious denomination.
The Supreme Court has consistently held that a religious denomination under Article 26 must satisfy three essential conditions.
Step 2: Essential requirements.
These are: (i) a collection of individuals having a common faith, (ii) a common organisation, and (iii) a distinctive name.
Step 3: Identification of the non-essential element.
Common community or societal status is not a requirement for a group to be recognised as a religious denomination.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Hence, the correct answer is (D).