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Question
Explain the following:
Directive principles are mere promises.
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Solution
Yes, it’s often said that Directive Principles are mere promises because they represent ideals and goals rather than enforceable rights. They are enshrined in Part IV of the Constitution and serve as guiding principles for the State to establish a just, equitable, and welfare-orientated society.
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Non-Enforceable in Court: Citizens cannot go to court if the government fails to implement any Directive Principle.
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Dependent on Political Will: Their implementation relies on the government’s initiative, resources, and priorities, not on legal compulsion.
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Moral and Ethical Duty: They act more as moral obligations than legal mandates for the State.
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Examples:
- Free legal aid (Article 39A)
- Equal pay for equal work (Article 39)
- Promotion of education and public health (Articles 41–47)
Despite being “mere promises”, Directive Principles influence law-making and are often used by courts to interpret Fundamental Rights in a broader, welfare-orientated way.
