What do you understand by secularism? Can it be equated with religious tolerance?
Secularism is first and foremost a doctrine that opposes all forms of inter-religious domination. It is not merely about the peaceful coexistence of religions but involves a commitment to equality and dignity for all religious groups.
In the Indian context, there was already a culture of inter-religious tolerance that predated Western modern ideas. However, secularism cannot be simply equated with religious tolerance. Tolerance is compatible with religious domination. While tolerance may allow some space to everyone, such freedom is usually limited in nature.
Moreover, tolerance merely allows us to put up with people whom we find deeply repugnant. This might be a virtue for a society recovering from a major civil war, but it is not sufficient in times of peace where people are struggling for equal dignity and respect.
Secularism is much more than mere peaceful coexistence or toleration. Indian secularism allows for principled state intervention in all religions. It does not treat every aspect of every religion with equal respect. For instance, religiously sanctioned caste-hierarchies are not acceptable within Indian secularism. Thus, secularism goes beyond tolerance to actively oppose domination and ensure equality.
Explanation
This answer addresses both parts of the question using only the textbook context. It first defines secularism as a doctrine opposing inter-religious domination. Then it explains why tolerance is insufficient - tolerance permits religious domination, offers limited freedom, and merely allows putting up with those we find objectionable. The answer highlights that Indian secularism involves principled state intervention and rejects oppressive practices like caste hierarchies, making it fundamentally different from and more comprehensive than mere religious tolerance.