Article 51A Part-4A(Fundamental Duties)

Article : Article 51A Part-4A(Fundamental Duties)

Author: NEHA GUPTA, a Student of HINDI VIDYA PRACHAR SAMITI (HVPS)COLLEGE OF LAW

*Introduction:-  The Fundamental Duties, enshrined in the constitution of India, represent the moral and ethical obligation of citizens  towards the nation. Added through the 42nd  Amendment in 1976,these duties serve as crucial counterpart to the Fundamental Rights, highlighting  the dual responsibilities of citizens in a democratic society. In this article ,we will delve into the 11 Fundamental Duties and their relevance in shaping a responsible and conscientious citizenry.

* Fundamental Duties:-

1)Abide by the Indian constitution and respect its ideals and institution, the national Flag and the national Anthem.

2)Cherish and follow the noble ideals that inspired the national struggle for freedom.

3)Uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India.

4)Defend the country and render national service when called upon to do so.

5)Promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood amongst all the people of India transcending regional, linguistic and regional or sectional diversities and to renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women.

6)Value and preserve the rich heritage of the country’s composite culture.

7) Protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife and to have compassion for living creatures.

8) Safeguard public property and to abjure violence.

9) Develop scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform.

10) strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity so that the nation constantly rises to higher levels of endeavour and achievement.

11) Provide opportunities for education to his child or ward between the age of six and fourteen years.(This duty was added by the 86th constitutional Amendment Act,2002)

*Significance:-The significance of this duty lies in its role in upholding the rule of law and the democratic fabric of our nation. When citizens respect the constitution and its institutions, it promotes stability and ensures that the right and freedom guaranteed by the constitution are upheld. It fosters a sense of unity and commitment to the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity that our constitution embodies. 

*Example:- One notable example of citizens abiding by this duty is the active participation of voters in the democratic process during elections. When citizens exercise their right to vote, they are not only upholding the constitution but also actively contributing to the of democratic institutions.

*Case Law:- M.C. Mehta vs. Union of India

The supreme court held that it is compulsory for all the educational institute to organise a teaching lesson of at least one hour a week on the protection and improvement of the natural environment and it is the duty of the central Government under article 51A (g) to introduce this in all educational institute. The central Government should also distribute books free o0f cost on the same subject in all the institutes and also raise consciousness amongst people towards clean environment. The government should organise ‘keep the city clean’ week at least once in a year.

*Conclusion:- The fundamental Duties of Indian citizens are not mere legal obligation; they are the moral and ethical pillars on which our democracy stands. Each of these 11 duties carries its significance and plays a unique role in building a responsible and conscientious citizenry. It is incumbent upon us to not only recognize these duties but also actively practice them in our daily lives. By doing so, we not only honor the constitution but also contribute to the betterment of our nation and the well-being of our fellow citizens.