Question

"The constitution is used as an instrument of social change." Explain this statement.

Hint:

When asked about "Constitution as social change," always connect Fundamental Rights, DPSPs, reservations, and abolition of evils to show its transformative power.

Answer 1

Step 1: Meaning of constitution as social change.
The Constitution is not only a political framework but also a social document. It reflects the aspirations of people to transform Indian society from inequality and oppression towards justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Step 2: Abolition of social evils.
\begin{itemize} \item Abolition of untouchability (Article 17). \item Prohibition of discrimination based on caste, religion, gender, or place of birth (Article 15). \item Ban on exploitation such as begar and bonded labor (Article 23). \end{itemize}

Step 3: Fundamental rights as instruments of change.
\begin{itemize} \item Right to Equality ensures equal treatment before law. \item Right to Freedom empowers individuals with speech, association, and movement. \item Right to Constitutional Remedies allows citizens to fight injustice through courts. \end{itemize}

Step 4: Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs).
Although non-justiciable, DPSPs guide the state to promote social welfare, reduce inequality, ensure education, health, and living wages.

Step 5: Affirmative action and reservations.
Reservation in education, jobs, and legislatures for SCs, STs, OBCs, and women ensures inclusion of disadvantaged groups.

Step 6: Contemporary role.
Constitutional amendments (like 73rd and 74th) decentralize power through Panchayati Raj, ensuring participation of women and weaker sections in governance.

Step 7: Conclusion.
Thus, the Constitution is more than a legal document—it is a transformative instrument aimed at restructuring Indian society into a just, inclusive, and democratic order.

Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{The Constitution = tool of social transformation through rights, equality, and reforms.}} \]