Question

"Our Constitution aims at bringing about a synthesis between 'Fundamental Rights' and the 'Directive Principles of State Policy' by giving to the former a pride of place and to the latter a place of permanence. Together, not individually, they form the core...they constitute its true conscience."
The above statement has been taken from, which one of the following judgments?

• A. Minerva Mills v. Union of India, (1980) 2 SCC 591
• B. Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala, (1973) 4 SCC 225
• C. Excel Wear v. Union of India, (1978) 4 SCC 224
• D. Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978) 1 SCC 248

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The statement about the synthesis between 'Fundamental Rights' and 'Directive Principles of State Policy' is drawn from the judgment Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978) 1 SCC 248. 

This case is a landmark decision in Indian constitutional law where the Supreme Court expanded the interpretation of the term 'personal liberty' in Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. It emphasized the harmony and balance between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles, suggesting that both are integral to achieving the goals set forth by the Constitution. 

The court highlighted that while Fundamental Rights are primary, Directive Principles have an enduring role in guiding state policy, thus deserving a place of permanence. This interpretation marked a significant development in ensuring that neither are viewed in isolation but as complementary to each other, embodying the 'true conscience' of the Constitution.