The implementation of Fundamental duties under article 51A of the Indian Constitution is a vital step toward fostering responsible citizenship within a constitutional democracy. The Hon’ble Prime Minister has emphasized that fulfilling these Fundamental duties is essential for national progress, referring to the present era as 'Kartavya Kaal'. These duties serve as moral obligations that complement legal rights, helping to balance individual liberty with collective responsibility in a democratic society.

They reflect a constitutional philosophy wherein citizens, endowed with Fundamental Rights (Part III), are also expected to fulfil their Fundamental duties (Part IV-A) for the greater good of the nation. Initiatives such as the Citizen’s Duties Awareness Programme (2020), integration of duties into educational curricula, and outreach efforts through Constitution Day observances and media broadcasts among other legal, educational, and public initiatives have been undertaken to promote awareness of Fundamental duties. These efforts recognise that democracy can only truly thrive when citizens uphold both their rights and responsibilities.

The Government is aware of the recently launched initiative titled “Kartavyam” by the Campus Law Centre, University of Delhi. This national initiative, undertaken in collaboration with 21 universities and institutions, aims to promote a duty-centric approach and develop duty jurisprudence within the framework of constitutional and legislative discourse.

In celebration of 75 glorious years of the Constitution of India, the Campus Law Centre, University of Delhi, inaugurated the Kartavyam Lecture Series on April 22 Rooted in the concept of constitutional duty, the series aspires to inspire a profound shift in public consciousness- transitioning from a rights-centric discourse to one that equally honours responsibilities. It represents a meaningful step toward fostering civic awareness and cultivating a culture of accountable citizenship.

“Kartavyam” is not just a lecture series- it is an unprecedented platform where courtroom legends, eminent jurists, and leading legal minds converge to explore and redefine constitutional thought. Seize this opportunity to engage in thought-provoking discussions, gain invaluable insights, and be part of a transformative dialogue on law, governance, and justice.

The Government is of the view that adopting a duty-centred approach, in line with the Fundamental Duties enshrined under Article 51A of the Constitution, can significantly contribute to fostering civic discipline, promoting social harmony, ensuring ideological balance, and strengthening democratic values in the long term.

Fundamental Duties serve as moral and civic responsibilities for every citizen. A culture that emphasizes these duties alongside fundamental rights encourages law-abiding behaviour, mutual respect among communities, and greater participation in democratic processes. Such an approach complements the rights-based framework of the Constitution by promoting a balanced and responsible citizenship. The Government promotes awareness and understanding of these duties through school curricula, public campaigns, and academic collaborations.

Fundamental duties, included in Part IV-A of the Constitution through article 51A, are moral obligations rather than legally enforceable mandates. Unlike Fundamental Rights, which are justiciable and enforceable through courts, Fundamental duties remain non-justiciable. However, several key legislations in India have been enacted to give legal effect to the values embedded in these duties.

In addition to statutory provisions, many Fundamental duties have been reinforced through judicial interpretation rather than explicit laws, for example, the M.C. Mehta series of cases, where the courts interpreted article 51A(g) (mandating duty to protect the environment) as binding on state actions. Over the decades, India has introduced so many laws aimed at protecting national honour, preserving the environment, safeguarding cultural heritage, promoting gender dignity, advancing education, and protecting public property. Such as: -

1. The Environment Protection Act 1986 and the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
2. The Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984, The Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (Section 325 to 327).
3. Right to Education Act, 2009.

This information was given by the Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of
Law and Justice and Minister of State in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha today.

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Samrat / Allen

(Release ID: 2154079)