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: Understanding the Concept:
The Fundamental Duties were added to the Indian Constitution by the 42nd Amendment in 1976. They are enshrined in Article 51-A and are inspired by the Constitution of the former USSR. They are intended to serve as a constant reminder to every citizen that while the Constitution specifically conferred upon them certain fundamental rights, it also requires them to observe certain basic norms of democratic conduct and democratic behavior.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze the purpose of Fundamental Duties:
(A) Impose legal restrictions: Fundamental Duties are non-justiciable in nature, meaning they are not directly enforceable by the courts. Therefore, they do not impose legal restrictions in the same way that laws do.
(B) Limit the Government's power: The provisions that limit the government's power are primarily the Fundamental Rights (Part III of the Constitution), not the Fundamental Duties.
(C) Create a moral-ethical framework for citizens of India: This is the core purpose. The duties exhort citizens to uphold noble ideals, cherish the nation's heritage, promote harmony, and develop a scientific temper. They are intended to be a moral compass guiding the conduct of citizens.
(D) Fundamental Duties act as a prerequisite for citizenship: Citizenship in India is governed by the provisions of the Constitution (Part II) and the Citizenship Act, 1955. The performance of Fundamental Duties is not a condition for acquiring or maintaining citizenship.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The primary aim of Fundamental Duties is to establish a set of moral and ethical obligations for citizens to help build a responsible and harmonious society.