Silchar, March 2 -- A question in Assam's Class 10 final examination pertaining to India's secularism has sparked a debate across the state. The social science question in the state board examination said, "Suppose the government has set up a hospital in a village called Dambuk. The hospital provides free treatment to the Hindus. People of other religions have to bear the cost of treatment themselves. Can the government take such measures in a country like India? Give your opinion."

A copy of the question paper went viral on social media after the exam and several organisations criticised the line of questioning. Some civil society organisations alleged that it was a silent attempt to bring a communal colour to the education system.

Sen...