undamental Rights, Fundamental Duties, and Directive Principles of State Polic
Fundamental Rights (Part III, Articles 12-35 of the Constitution of India)
These are the basic human rights guaranteed to all citizens of India. They are justiciable, meaning
individuals can approach the courts for enforcement.
1. Right to Equality (Articles 14-18)
- Article 14: Equality before the law and equal protection of the laws.
- Article 15: Prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
- Article 16: Equality of opportunity in public employment.
- Article 17: Abolition of untouchability.
- Article 18: Abolition of titles (except military or academic distinctions).
2. Right to Freedom (Articles 19-22)
I. Article 19: Six freedoms for Indian citizens
- Freedom of speech and expression.
- Freedom to assemble peacefully without arms.
- Freedom to form associations or unions.
- Freedom to move freely throughout India.
- Freedom to reside and settle in any part of India.
- Freedom to practice any profession or carry on any trade, occupation, or business.
II. Articles 20-22:
- Article 20: Protection in respect of conviction for offenses (no ex-post facto laws, double
jeopardy, or self-incrimination).
- Article 21: Protection of life and personal liberty.
- Article 21A: Right to education for children aged 6-14 years.
- Article 22: Protection against arrest and detention in certain cases (rights of detainees).
3. Right against Exploitation (Articles 23-24)
- Article 23: Prohibition of human trafficking and forced labor.
- Article 24: Prohibition of child labor in hazardous industries.
4. Right to Freedom of Religion (Articles 25-28)
- Freedom of conscience and free profession, practice, and propagation of religion.
- Freedom to manage religious affairs.
- Freedom from taxation for promoting religion.
5. Cultural and Educational Rights (Articles 29-30)
- Right to conserve culture, language, and script.
- Right of minorities to establish and administer educational institutions.
6. Right to Property (Article 31)
- Initially a Fundamental Right, it was moved to a legal right under Article 300A by the 44th
Amendment Act, 1978.
7. Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32)
- Right to move the Supreme Court for enforcement of Fundamental Rights (Writs: Habeas
Corpus, Mandamus, Prohibition, Certiorari, Quo Warranto).
Fundamental Duties (Article 51A, Part IV-A)
Added by the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976. There are 11 duties, including:
1. Respecting the Constitution, national flag, and anthem.
2. Promoting harmony and spirit of brotherhood.
3. Protecting the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.
4. Preserving the rich heritage of the country's culture.
5. Protecting and improving the natural environment.
6. Developing scientific temper and humanism.
7. Safeguarding public property.
8. Striving for excellence in all spheres.
9. Providing opportunities for education to children (for parents/guardians).
Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV, Articles 36-51)
These are non-justiciable principles aimed at ensuring social and economic democracy:
1. Social Principles:
- Promote welfare by securing justice, social, economic, and political (Article 38).
- Minimize income inequalities (Article 39).
2. Economic Principles:
- Provide adequate livelihood and equal pay for equal work.
- Prevent concentration of wealth (Article 39).
3. Gandhian Principles:
- Organize village panchayats (Article 40).
- Promote cottage industries (Article 43).
- Prohibit cow slaughter (Article 48).
4. International Peace:
- Foster respect for international law and treaty obligations (Article 51).
These notes provide both a concise overview and details to help understand the key elements.
