Discussion on the Political Status of Hinduism in Modern Nepal

Abstract

Until 2006, Nepal was the only Hindu state in the world. During the abolition of the monarchy, the country was proclaimed secular, but this step was opposed by certain segments of the country's population. The article analyses the relationship between Hinduism and state in Nepal, examines the arguments of supporters and opponents of the proclamation of a secular state. The author comes to the conclusion that for centuries Nepalese kings had used Hinduism for the legitimization of their rule and the creation of national identity. As a result, the process of eliminating the institution of the monarchy necessitated the proclamation of a secular state. At the same time, the discussion about the status of Hinduism itself began long before 2006 and was caused by dissatisfaction with the state religious policy on the part of the representatives of lower castes and non-Hindus. Now, however, the opponents of Nepal's status as a secular state begin to set the tone in the discussion. They are trying to understand the consequences of this step. On the one hand, the functions of the king, including religious ones, were taken over by the president of the country, interpretation of a secular state in the Constitution is rather favorable for Hindus. On the other hand, the popularity of other religions, especially Christianity, increases in Nepal. There is still an ongoing debate, and lack of closure in the discussion on the subject is also evidenced by the fact that not only individual activists, but also representatives of the largest political forces of the country bring up the topic of Hinduism in Nepal in their speeches.