1.What are the core values embodied in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution and how effectively are these principles upheld in modern India?
Approach: Introduction about Preamble and its values like liberty, justice, fraternity and equality- Effectiveness in achieving these values and Challenges to upheld- way forward
Answer:
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution serves as its soul, embodying the fundamental principles of liberty, justice, equality, and fraternity. It envisions India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic that upholds the dignity of the individual and the unity of the nation. These ideals set the foundation for the rights and duties of citizens and guide the state in policy making and governance.
Justice: It is necessary to maintain order in society that is promised through various provisions of Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy provided by the Constitution of India. It comprises three elements, which is social, economic, and political.
● Social Justice – Social justice means that the Constitution wants to create a society without discrimination on any grounds like caste, creed, gender, religion, etc.
● Economic Justice – Economic Justice means no discrimination can be caused by people on the basis of their wealth, income, and economic status. Every person must be paid equally for an equal position and all people must get opportunities to earn for their living.
● Political Justice – Political Justice means all the people have an equal, free and fair right without any discrimination to participate in political opportunities.
Equality: The term ‘Equality’ means no section of society has any special privileges and all the people have been given equal opportunities for everything without any discrimination. Everyone is equal before the law.
Liberty: The term ‘Liberty’ means freedom for the people to choose their way of life, have political views and behavior in society. Liberty does not mean freedom to do anything, a person can do anything but in the limit set by the law.
Fraternity: The term ‘Fraternity’ means a feeling of brotherhood and an emotional attachment with the country and all the people. Fraternity helps to promote dignity and unity in the nation.
Effectiveness in Achieving These Values
- Justice (Social, Economic, and Political):
○ Achievements: The Indian judiciary, welfare schemes, and affirmative actions like reservations for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes have promoted justice.
○ Gaps: Despite efforts, inequalities persist, with marginalized communities still facing discrimination and access to justice being slow and expensive. - Liberty (Thought, Expression, Belief, Faith, and Worship):
○ Achievements: Liberty is enshrined through Fundamental Rights, enabling freedom of expression, religion, and choice.
○ Gaps: Rising intolerance, curbs on free speech, and misuse of laws like sedition and UAPA challenge liberty. - Equality (Status and Opportunity):
○ Achievements: Initiatives like the Right to Education Act and gender-focused programs have bridged gaps in social and economic opportunities.
○ Gaps: Gender inequality, caste-based discrimination, and wealth disparity highlight the incomplete realization of equality. - Fraternity (Dignity and Unity):
○ Achievements: Moments of national solidarity during crises, such as natural disasters or sports victories, reflect a sense of fraternity.
○ Gaps: Communalism, casteism, and regionalism often threaten unity and mutual respect.
Challenges in Upholding These Values
● Socio-Economic Disparities: A wide income gap hinders equality and justice.
● Polarization: Political and ideological divides erode fraternity.
● Judicial Delays and Corruption: Access to justice remains a challenge for many.
● Misinformation and Censorship: Growing fake news and restrictions on media impact liberty.
Way Forward
● Reinforce Social Harmony: Promote interfaith and inter caste dialogue to strengthen fraternity.
● Judicial Reforms: Simplify legal procedures and ensure faster resolution of cases to enhance justice.
● Educational Reforms: Impart constitutional values to instill a sense of liberty, equality, and fraternity among citizens.
● Economic Equity: Strengthen policies targeting poverty alleviation and reducing wealth disparities.
● Upholding Democratic Principles: Safeguard free speech, press independence, and participatory governance.
The Preamble remains the cornerstone of India’s constitutional ethos. While significant strides have been made in achieving its ideals, the journey is ongoing. A collective effort by the state and citizens is essential to uphold these values, ensuring a just, equitable, and united India as envisioned by the framers of the Constitution.
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