Question

What is one of the most distinctive features of the Directive Principles of State Policy of the Indian Constitution?

• A. Legally enforceable mandates
• B. Aspirational guidelines for governance
• C. Absolute constitutional guarantees
• D. Permanent governmental obligations

Hint:

Remember the key difference: Fundamental Rights are justiciable (enforceable by courts) and act as negative obligations on the state (what the state cannot do). DPSPs are non-justiciable and act as positive obligations on the state (what the state should do).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Introduction to DPSPs:
Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP), found in Part IV of the Indian Constitution, guide central and state governments. They outline the socio-economic objectives the Constitution's creators envisioned for the state.
Step 2: Key Characteristics Explained:
Analyzing the key features:

(A) Not Legally Enforceable: This applies to Fundamental Rights (Part III), not DPSPs. Article 37 explicitly states Part IV's provisions "shall not be enforceable by any court."
(B) Governance Aspirations: This is accurate. DPSPs are ideals and goals for the State to create a just society. They are not legally binding but are "fundamental in the governance of the country" (Article 37).
(C) Not Constitutional Guarantees: This is incorrect. They lack legal enforceability in court.
(D) Ongoing Governmental Goals: While a moral obligation, "permanent" is misleading. Implementation depends on resources and political will. "Aspirational guidelines" is more precise.
Step 3: Conclusion:
DPSPs are non-justiciable (not legally enforceable) yet fundamental governance guidelines, making them aspirational.