Fundamental Rights and Duties of India

The Constitution of India, adopted in 1950, guarantees certain basic rights to its citizens known as Fundamental Rights.

These rights ensure equality, freedom, and justice for all, protecting individuals from exploitation and discrimination.

Alongside rights, the Constitution also prescribes Fundamental Duties, which remind citizens of their responsibility towards the nation and society.

Both together create a balance between rights enjoyed and duties performed, strengthening democracy.

Fundamental Rights of India (Part III, Articles 12–35)

RightArticlesKey Provisions
Right to Equality14–18Equality before law, no discrimination, equal opportunity, abolition of untouchability & titles.
Right to Freedom19–22Freedom of speech, assembly, movement, residence, profession; protection of life & liberty; right to education; protection against arbitrary arrest.
Right against Exploitation23–24Prohibition of human trafficking, forced labour & child labour in hazardous jobs.
Right to Freedom of Religion25–28Freedom to profess, practice, propagate religion; manage religious institutions; no religious instruction in state institutions.
Cultural & Educational Rights29–30Right of minorities to conserve culture, language; establish & administer educational institutions.
Right to Constitutional Remedies32Right to approach Supreme Court for enforcement of Fundamental Rights (writs). Called the “Heart & Soul of the Constitution”.

Fundamental Duties (Article 51A, Part IVA)

  1. Abide by the Constitution, respect its ideals, the National Flag and the National Anthem
    → Citizens must honor the symbols and framework of Indian democracy.
  2. Cherish and follow the noble ideals of the freedom struggle
    → Remember and practice the values for which India fought independence.
  3. Uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India
    → Citizens should always safeguard the nation against threats to its integrity.
  4. Defend the country and render national service when called upon
    → In times of war or emergency, every citizen has a duty to serve the nation.
  5. Promote harmony and spirit of brotherhood transcending religious, linguistic, regional or sectional diversities
    → Encourage unity and social harmony among diverse groups of India.
  6. Value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture
    → Protect traditions, art, and culture that form India’s identity.
  7. Protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife, and have compassion for living creatures
    → Work towards environmental protection and show kindness towards animals.
  8. Develop scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform
    → Encourage rational thinking and progressive ideas.
  9. Safeguard public property and abjure violence
    → Citizens must not damage government property and should avoid violence.
  10. Strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity
    → Constantly work to improve oneself and contribute to national progress.
  11. Provide opportunities for education to children between 6 and 14 years of age (added by 86th Amendment, 2002)
    → Parents/guardians must ensure their children receive basic education.

Key Facts for Exams

  • Fundamental Rights are justiciable, i.e., enforceable by courts.
  • Fundamental Duties are non-justiciable, i.e., not legally enforceable but act as moral obligations.
  • Rights are derived from the American Bill of Rights; Duties are inspired by the Constitution of the USSR.
  • Article 32 gives power to Supreme Court to issue writs like Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Certiorari, Prohibition, and Quo-Warranto.