Question

Fundamental Duties in the Constitution of India primarily aim at:

• A. Impose legal restrictions
• B. Limit the Government's power
• C. Create a moral-ethical framework for citizens of India
• D. Fundamental Duties act as a prerequisite for citizenship

Hint:

Remember the key distinction: Fundamental Rights are justiciable and are primarily claims against the State. Fundamental Duties are non-justiciable and are moral obligations on the citizen.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Background:
Fundamental Duties were incorporated into the Indian Constitution through the 42nd Amendment in 1976. Found in Article 51-A, they were influenced by the former USSR's constitution. Their purpose is to remind citizens that, alongside their fundamental rights, they also have responsibilities to adhere to democratic principles and conduct.
Step 2: Analysis:
Let's clarify the function of Fundamental Duties:
(A) Legal Constraints: Fundamental Duties are not legally enforceable. Unlike laws, they cannot be directly enforced by courts.
(B) Governmental Limits: The provisions limiting governmental power are primarily the Fundamental Rights (Part III of the Constitution), not the Fundamental Duties.
(C) Moral and Ethical Framework: This is the primary function. These duties encourage citizens to uphold ideals, value national heritage, foster unity, and cultivate a scientific mindset. They serve as a moral guide for citizens' behavior.
(D) Citizenship Requirements: Indian citizenship is regulated by the Constitution (Part II) and the Citizenship Act, 1955. Fulfilling Fundamental Duties is not a prerequisite for obtaining or keeping citizenship.
Step 3: Conclusion:
The main goal of Fundamental Duties is to create a set of moral and ethical obligations for citizens to contribute to a responsible and unified society.