FUNDAMENTAL
DUTIES AND THEIR ROLE IN INDIAN DEMOCRACY
Author- Supriya punj, B.A.LLB(Hons), C.M.P. Degree College, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj
Abstract
In every democracy, citizens often raise their
voices about rights, but what about the other side of the coin — their duties?
In India, Fundamental Duties were introduced in 1976 to remind us that being a
responsible citizen is just as important as enjoying freedom. These duties
reflect the moral and civic responsibilities that support the structure of a democratic
society. Although they are not legally enforceable, they play a crucial role in
shaping citizens' behavior, encouraging national unity, protecting public
property, promoting environmental awareness, and fostering a sense of shared
responsibility. This article looks into how these duties came to be, their
purpose. The article also discusses challenges in awareness and enforcement,
and suggests ways to strengthen the role of Fundamental Duties in everyday life
and their practical significance in daily life — especially in a diverse
country like India, democracy becomes stronger and more inclusive when people
balance their rights with their duties.
Keywords:
Fundamental Duties, Indian Constitution, Article 51A, Civic Responsibility,
Democracy, Swaran Singh committee, Rights and Duties.
Introduction
Fundamental Duties are a vital part of the Indian Constitution that remind
citizens about their moral and civic responsibilities. [1]In
1976, the Indian Constitution was amended through the 42nd Amendment
to include Fundamental Duties, following the recommendations that were made by
the Swaran Singh Committee. This addition aimed to emphasize that the rights
given to citizens must be balanced with corresponding responsibilities to the
nation. In India, people are well aware of their rights — the right to speak
freely, practice religion, or go to school. But very less amount of people talk
about the responsibilities that come with these rights. This was the reason the
government decided to include Fundamental Duties in the Constitution. These are
not punishable if ignored, but they are important for keeping our democracy
balanced. They remind us to respect the country, its laws, and each other.
Where Did These Duties Come From?
The idea of Fundamental Duties wasn't the part of
the original Constitution. They were added later, in
1976, during a time when the country was going through a tough political phase.
The government at the time set up a committee led by Swaran Singh to recommend
changes. As a result, ten duties were added to the Constitution under Article
51A, and later, one more was included in 2002.
What Are These Duties?
Instead of listing them all in legal language, here is a quick summary. These
duties ask citizens to respect the national flag and anthem because they
represent the soul of our nation,
cherish freedom fighters who gave up everything to win independence for
us, stay united and stand by our country, defend the country if needed, care
for the environment showing kindness to all living beings , promote harmony -
should treat everyone equally no matter their religion, language, or
background, avoid violence, and strive for excellence. One of the duties also
asks parents or guardians to make sure their kids get an education.
Are
These Duties Legally Enforced?
Not really. The duties are more like moral guidelines There are no legal
penalties for ignoring these duties. But that doesn't mean they do not matter. [2]In
fact, courts in India have sometimes referred to these duties when making
decisions. For example, in cases involving the environment or public property,
courts have reminded citizens of their role in society.
Case Example 1 :AIIMS Students' Union v. AIIMS, (2002) 1 SCC 428
In the AIIMS Students' Union case (2002), the
Supreme Court said that duties are just as important as rights. Similarly, in
the MC Mehta case (1987), the court talked about our responsibility to keep the
environment safe.
Case Example 2: MC Mehta v. Union of India (1987)
This landmark environmental case relied heavily on
citizens 'duty to protect the environment. The court highlighted the citizen's
duty to protect natural resources like forests, rivers, lakes, and wildlife,
and called for stricter pollution regulations and increased public awareness.
Case Example 3: Bandhua Mukti Morcha v. Union of
India (1984)
The court connected Fundamental Duties with human
dignity and welfare. It said that every citizen's duty includes promoting
justice and preventing exploitation, reflecting the moral side of governance.
Why
They Matter in a Democracy
A good democracy is a two-way street. While the government protects our rights,
we, as citizens, must act responsibly. Duties help create awareness, keep
people involved, and promote peace and order. For instance, if we all followed
the duty of not destroying public property, protests would remain peaceful.
Fundamental Duties remind us that while we enjoy our
rights, we also have some responsibilities towards our country. Rights and
duties go together - only when we do both, we can help out country grow better.
Simple civic sense -- like keeping our surroundings clean, respecting laws, or
even voting — all connect back to these duties. When everyone does their bit,
democracy works better.
Problems with Implementation
One of the major problems with the implementation of Fundamental Duties is that
many people are simply unaware of them. They exist in the Constitution, but
they are not given enough attention in schools, and civic education often
becomes just a formality rather than a meaningful subject. As a result, people
grow up knowing about their rights, but rarely about their responsibilities
toward the country.
Another issue is that people who are struggling with
poverty, lack of education, or unemployment may not have the time or resources
to think about duties like protecting the environment or promoting scientific
thinking. For them, survival becomes the first priority.
A further concern is that sometimes leaders and
public figures use these duties to push their own views, while not following
the same principles themselves. This kind of behavior sends the wrong message
and makes these duties seem less serious.
In today’s world, where misinformation spreads
easily online and social divisions are increasing, values like unity, harmony,
and mutual respect are often pushed aside. Without regular reminders or proper
awareness, Fundamental Duties tend to remain ideal words on paper, instead of
becoming part of our everyday actions.
How
We Can Make Duties More Effective
Teach
duties actively in schools and colleges
→ Go beyond just reading
the textbook—use real-life examples,
discussions, and activities to help students understand and practice them.
Run public awareness campaigns
→ Use TV ads, social
media, street plays, and posters to remind people of their responsibilities as
citizens.
Give recognition for responsible behavior
→ Encourage good
citizenship by appreciating people or groups who take care of nature, promote
unity, or help educate others.
Leaders should set an example
→ When politicians and
public figures follow these duties, it inspires the public to do the same.
Link duties with daily life and existing laws
→ Show how actions like
not littering, respecting others, and protecting the environment are both legal
responsibilities and national duties.
Organize community-level workshops and events
→ Host talks, debates,
and awareness drives in local areas to involve people in understanding and
practicing their duties.
Display duties in public places
→ Put up clear,
easy-to-read versions of the duties in schools, offices, metro stations, parks,
and other public areas.
Use regional languages and simple words
→ Spread awareness in
languages people understand, so everyone—regardless
of education—can relate to the
message.
Engage youth and social media influencers
→ Use creative reels,
videos, and challenges to make duties popular among younger generations.
Include small reminders in public programs and
events
→ Begin meetings or
events with one or two lines about duties to keep them fresh in people’s minds.
Conclusion
Rights and duties go hand in hand. You can not keep taking from the system
without giving back. Fundamental Duties may not be enforceable by law, but
they're enforceable by ethical understanding. As citizens, doing our part —
however small — makes a difference. If we all take them seriously, India's
democracy will only grow stronger.
Furthermore, integrating these duties into our daily
lives can foster a stronger sense of belonging and national pride. When people
start to view these duties not as obligations but as contributions to society,
it nurtures a more responsible and aware generation. In schools, workplaces,
and even households, these values can be nurtured to build a civic culture
based on mutual respect and cooperation.
Also, if awareness increases and these duties are
included in public campaigns, digital platforms, and educational curriculum
more consistently, they can become second nature. Citizens will begin to
participate more actively in democratic processes—not just during elections,
but also by standing up for justice, preserving the environment, and promoting
peace and equality.
In the long run, understanding and practicing
Fundamental Duties can bridge gaps between communities, reduce conflicts, and
create a more inclusive and conscious society. After all, democracy thrives not
only through rights protected by the law but also through duties upheld by its
people.
Bibliography
1. Constitution of India – Article 51A
2. AIIMS Students’ Union v. AIIMS, AIR 2002 SC 3050
3. MC Mehta v. Union of India, AIR 1987 SC 1086
4. Swaran Singh Committee Report
5. M.P. Jain – Indian Constitutional Law
[1] The 42nd
Amendment to the Constitution of India, enacted in 1976, inserted Article 51A
introducing Fundamental Duties based on recommendations of the Swaran
Singh Committee.
[2]Though not enforceable by law, Fundamental Duties have been cited in several landmark judgments to interpret constitutional morality and public interest.
- Fundamental Duties of Indian Constitution
- Role of Fundamental Duties in Indian Democracy
- Importance of Fundamental Duties
- 11 Fundamental Duties of Indian Citizens
- Article 51A Constitution of India
- Fundamental Rights and Duties
- Indian Constitution Part IVA
- Citizens' responsibilities in democracy
- Indian democratic values
- National integration and Fundamental Duties
- Duties under 42nd Amendment Act
- Fundamental Duties UPSC
- Gandhian principles in Constitution
- Duties of Indian citizens
- Fundamental Duties essay
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