Why secularism is important for a democratic country?

In a democratic country like India, with its multi lingual and multi racial character, secularism is the best option. Under secularism, right to practice religious rituals by peoples from all religions is allowed to exercise without any obstacle or hindrance. Whereas in autocracy, right to religious practice is curtailed specially for the minority communities. Even in Government services, college, university admission, there is reservation for minority community candidates. There is no discrimination of any sort on religious grounds. In view of the above, secularism is vital for a democratic country.