Article 26 of the Indian Constitution guarantees every religious denomination, or any section thereof, the freedom to manage its own religious affairs, subject to certain constitutional restrictions.
The provision allows religious denominations to establish and maintain institutions for religious and charitable purposes. It also grants them the right to own and acquire movable and immovable property.
Furthermore, religious denominations have the authority to administer their property in accordance with the law.
While Article 25 protects the individual freedom of conscience and the right to profess, practise and propagate religion, Article 26 safeguards the collective religious freedom of denominations and their institutions.
However, these rights are subject to reasonable restrictions in the interests of public order, morality and health.
