Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy

In the Indian Constitution, there are certain provisions which are known as Directive Principles of State Policy. These principles lay down the guidelines for the government to follow in order to achieve socio-economic justice and equality. Unlike Fundamental Rights, which are justiciable, Directive Principles are not legally enforceable. However, they play a very important role in our democracy, as they guide the government in formulating policies and programmes that benefit all sections of society. In this article, we will discuss the Characteristics of Directive Principles of State Policy, the Difference between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles, and the Classification of Directive Principles of State Policy.

What are the fundamental rights in the Indian Constitution?

The Fundamental Rights are a set of rights guaranteed to all citizens of India by the Constitution. These rights, enshrined in Part III of the Constitution, apply irrespective of race, religion, caste, creed or sex. They have been put in place to ensure that all citizens are treated equally and given the same opportunities, regardless of their background. Fundamental Rights are included from Article 12 to Article 35 of Indian Constitution.

The Fundamental Rights are:

– Right to equality

– Right to freedom

– Right to freedom of religion

– Right to property

– Right to constitutional remedies

– Cultural and educational rights

What are the Directive Principles of State Policy?

The Directive Principles of State Policy are a set of guidelines that the Indian Constitution lays out in order to ensure that the government works for the welfare of its citizens. They are also known as the DPSP or Directive Principles.

These principles are not enforceable by the courts, but the Parliament is mandated to keep them in mind while making laws.

The Directive Principles are based on the principles of social justice, liberty, and equality. They aim to create a just and humane society in India.

Characteristics of Directive Principles of State Policy

The Directive Principles of State Policy are a set of principles enshrined in Part IV of the Indian Constitution. They are not enforceable by any court, but the principles applied therein are fundamental in the governance of the country.

The DPSP lays down the guidelines and goals for the Indian legislature to strive to achieve while formulating laws and policies. The Directive Principles are based on the principles of social justice, liberty, and equality as enshrined in the Constitution.

The Directive Principles are meant to establish a just and humane society in India.

Difference between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles

There are several differences between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles. Some of them are:

– Fundamental Rights are justiciable while Directive Principles are non-justiciable.

– Fundamental Rights can be enforced by the courts while Directive Principles cannot be enforced by the courts.

– Fundamental Rights are negative in nature while Directive Principles are positive in nature.

– Fundamental Rights are enforceable against the state while Directive Principles are not enforceable against the state.

– Fundamental Rights are for the citizens while Directive Principles are for the government.

Classifications of Directive Principles of State Policy

Classifications of Directive Principles of State Policy are usually done into three categories:

Socialistic principles: These principles lay down the objective of social and economic equality. They also aim at minimizing the inequalities in society.

Gandhian principles: These principles are based on the philosophies of Mahatma Gandhi. They emphasize self-reliance, village industries, and decentralization of power.

Liberal principles: These principles lay down the objective of liberating the oppressed and exploited sections of society. They also aim at ensuring social and economic justice.

Conclusion

The Directive Principles of State Policy are an important part of the Indian Constitution. They lay down the guidelines for the government to follow in order to ensure a just and equitable society. The Fundamental Rights are also an important part of the Constitution and provide individuals with certain protections from the state. Although the two concepts are different, they both play an important role in safeguarding the rights of individuals. The Directive Principles of State Policy are important because they provide a blueprint for the government to follow in order to create a just and equitable society. The Fundamental Rights are important because they protect individuals from state interference. Both concepts are essential to ensuring that individuals have their rights protected.