The Constitution of India a visionary document, not only outlines the structure of governance and enshrines fundamental rights but also provides a unique set of guidelines for the State to achieve its socio-economic objectives. These are the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP), encapsulated in Part IV of the Constitution (Articles 36 to 51). Though non-justiciable, the DPSP are fundamental to the governance of the country and embody the very essence of India's commitment to becoming a welfare state.
Unlike Fundamental Rights (Part III), which are enforceable by courts, the DPSP are not directly enforceable. Article 37 explicitly states that "the provisions contained in this Part shall not be enforceable by any court, but the principles therein nevertheless are fundamental in the governance of the country and it shall be the duty of the State to apply these principles in making laws." This means that while citizens cannot go to court to demand the implementation of a DPSP, the State (both Union and State governments) is morally and constitutionally bound to consider them while formulating policies and enacting laws.
The primary purpose of the DPSP is to lay down the goals and objectives that the State should strive to achieve for the welfare of its citizens. They represent a comprehensive socio-economic charter for a modern democratic welfare state, aiming to build a society free from exploitation, ensuring social and economic justice.
The DPSP directly manifest the welfare principle by directing the State to create a society where citizens can live a dignified life. Key examples include:
These, among others, demonstrate the framers' vision of India as a welfare state, moving beyond a mere police state to actively promote the well-being of its citizens.
The relationship between DPSP and Fundamental Rights (FRs) has been a subject of extensive judicial debate. Initially, courts often held that FRs were superior to DPSP.
However, judicial interpretations evolved, recognizing the symbiotic relationship between the two parts of the Constitution.
The Directive Principles of State Policy are not mere moral precepts; they are fundamental guiding lights for governance in India. They constantly remind the State of its constitutional obligation to establish a just social and economic order, thereby transforming India into a true welfare state. The judicial balancing act between DPSP and Fundamental Rights has further solidified their significance, ensuring that while individual liberties are protected, the collective welfare of society also remains a paramount objective.