Fundamental Duties: Your Role as a Citizen
While the Constitution of India guarantees Fundamental Rights to its citizens, it also outlines certain Fundamental Duties. These duties are a reminder of the responsibilities that come with citizenship and are crucial for the harmonious functioning of society and the nation.
Origin and Evolution of Fundamental Duties
Fundamental Duties were not originally part of the Indian Constitution. They were added by the 42nd Amendment Act of 1976, based on the recommendations of the Swaran Singh Committee. The idea was to instill a sense of civic responsibility and patriotism among citizens.
Fundamental Duties were added by the 42nd Amendment Act of 1976.
These duties were incorporated into the Constitution on the advice of the Swaran Singh Committee, aiming to promote national consciousness and responsibility.
The 42nd Amendment Act of 1976 introduced a new Part IV-A to the Constitution, titled 'Fundamental Duties'. This part consists of a single article, Article 51A, which enumerates ten duties. Later, the 86th Amendment Act of 2002 added one more duty, bringing the total to eleven.
The Eleven Fundamental Duties
Article 51A of the Constitution lists the following eleven fundamental duties:
Article 51A
(a) to abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the National Flag and the National Anthem; (b) to cherish and follow the noble ideals which inspired our national struggle for freedom; (c) to uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India; (d) to defend the country and render national service when called upon to do so; (e) to promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood amongst all the people of India transcending religious, linguistic and regional or sectional diversities; to renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women; (f) to value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture; (g) to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wild life, and to have compassion for living creatures; (h) to develop the scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform; (i) to safeguard public property and to abjure violence; (j) to strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity so that the nation constantly rises to higher levels of endeavour and achievement; (k) who is a parent or guardian to provide opportunities for education to his child or, as the case may be, ward between the age of six and fourteen years.
Nature and Significance of Fundamental Duties
Fundamental Duties are moral and civic obligations of citizens. While most of them are directed towards the state and society, some are directed towards fellow citizens. They serve as a constant reminder that rights and responsibilities are two sides of the same coin. They also help in fostering a sense of national identity and collective responsibility.
Fundamental Duties are not legally enforceable, meaning there is no direct legal sanction for their violation. However, they serve as a moral compass and can be used by courts to interpret laws.
Enforcement and Judicial Interpretation
While Fundamental Duties are non-justiciable (not enforceable by courts), the Supreme Court has, in certain cases, used them to uphold constitutional values. For instance, the Court has held that the duty to protect the environment (Article 51A(g)) can be enforced through writs like the writ of mandamus.
The Fundamental Duties can be broadly categorized into moral duties, civic duties, and national duties. Moral duties include cherishing noble ideals of freedom struggle and promoting harmony. Civic duties involve abiding by the Constitution, defending the country, and safeguarding public property. National duties encompass developing scientific temper and striving for excellence.
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No, they are non-justiciable, but can be used by courts for interpretation.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
When preparing for competitive exams like UPSC, focus on the following aspects of Fundamental Duties:
- The amendment that introduced them (42nd Amendment, 1976).
- The committee that recommended them (Swaran Singh Committee).
- The specific article (Article 51A) and the list of all eleven duties.
- The non-justiciable nature of these duties and how courts have interpreted them.
Learning Resources
Direct access to the official text of Article 51A, outlining all Fundamental Duties as enshrined in the Constitution of India.
A comprehensive overview of Fundamental Duties, their significance, and their relevance for UPSC examinations, including historical context.
Detailed explanation of each fundamental duty with insights into their practical application and importance for citizens.
An in-depth analysis of Fundamental Duties, their historical background, and their role in shaping responsible citizenship.
Information about the Swaran Singh Committee, which recommended the inclusion of Fundamental Duties in the Indian Constitution.
A video lecture explaining the concept of Fundamental Duties, their origin, and their importance in the Indian Constitution.
Notes on Fundamental Duties tailored for UPSC aspirants, covering key aspects and potential exam questions.
Wikipedia article providing a broad overview of Fundamental Duties, their history, and their place within the Indian constitutional framework.
Details about the 42nd Amendment Act, which significantly altered the Indian Constitution, including the introduction of Fundamental Duties.
An analysis of how Indian courts have interpreted and, in some instances, enforced Fundamental Duties through various judgments.