Table of Contents
Introduction: Fundamental Duties
The Fundamental Duties of the Constitution of India serve as moral and civic obligations for its citizens. The duties are enshrined in Part IV-A of the Indian Constitution. These duties were added by the 42nd Amendment Act in 1976, drawing inspiration from the Directive Principles of State Policy and international norms.
There are eleven Fundamental Duties listed in Article 51A of the Constitution, which include respecting the Constitution, national symbols, and institutions, promoting harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood amongst all citizens, and safeguarding public property. Additionally, duties such as protecting the environment, preserving the rich heritage of the country, and fostering scientific temper are also emphasized.
Fundamental Duties – An Overview
- The Fundamental Duties in the Indian Constitution were added by the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976, on the recommendations of the Swaran Singh Committee.
- These duties were incorporated to remind citizens that while they have certain rights, they also have responsibilities towards the nation. Initially, there were 10 fundamental duties, but the 86th Amendment Act, of 2002, added one more duty, making it a total of 11.
- These duties are listed under Article 51A of the Indian Constitution.
Fundamental Duties Article 51A
It shall be the duty of every citizen of India —
- To abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the National Flag and the National Anthem;
- To cherish and follow the noble ideals which inspired our national struggle for freedom;
- To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India;
- To defend the country and render national service when called upon to do so;
- 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;
- To value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture;
- To protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife, and to have compassion for living creatures;
- To develop the scientific temper, humanism, and the spirit of inquiry and reform;
- To safeguard public property and to abjure violence;
- 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;
- 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 to fourteen years.
What are the Fundamental Duties in the Indian Constitution?
The Fundamental Duties in India, enshrined in Part IV-A of the Constitution, serve as moral and civic obligations for all citizens. These duties were introduced by the 42nd Amendment Act in 1976, reflecting the values outlined in the Directive Principles of State Policy and aligning with international norms. Article 51A of the Constitution lists eleven Fundamental Duties that emphasize the responsibilities of citizens toward the nation and society.
These duties include respecting the Constitution, its ideals, and institutions, as well as honouring the national flag and anthem. Citizens are expected to uphold the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India, and to promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood among all. In addition, they must safeguard public property and renounce violence.
The duties also extend to environmental protection, where citizens are encouraged to preserve and improve the natural environment, including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife. Another key duty is to value and preserve India’s rich cultural heritage.
These Fundamental Duties, while non-justiciable, aim to foster a sense of responsibility and civic virtue, promoting the overall development and well-being of the nation.
“Non-justiciable” means that the courts cannot enforce any provision listed in the Fundamental Duties in India through legal action. In other words, while citizens are encouraged to follow these duties, they cannot be legally penalized if they fail to fulfil them. These duties serve as moral obligations which aim to promote responsible behaviour.
Comparison between Fundamental Rights and Fundamental Duties
| Aspect | Fundamental Rights | Fundamental Duties |
|---|---|---|
| Constitutional Provision | Part III of the Indian Constitution | Part IV-A of the Indian Constitution |
| Nature | Justiciable (can be enforced by courts) | Non-justiciable (cannot be enforced by courts) |
| Purpose | Protect individual liberties and rights | Emphasize moral and civic responsibilities of citizens |
| Number | Six categories of rights | Eleven duties |
| Enforceability | Legally enforceable in case of violation | No legal action can be taken for non-compliance |
| Examples | Right to Equality, Right to Freedom, Right to Education | Respect the Constitution, Protect the Environment, Preserve Heritage |
| Source of Inspiration | Bill of Rights in various constitutions | Directive Principles of State Policy, international norms |
| Target Group | Protect individuals from state actions | Obligate citizens to contribute to the nation |
| Objective | Ensure freedom, dignity, and welfare of individuals | Promote patriotism, unity, and social responsibility |