KYC-02: Directive Principles of State Policy and Fundamental Rights l Arsala Ruhi l Ramgarh

Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs) and Fundamental Rights form the cornerstone of India's constitutional framework, balancing individual freedoms with collective welfare. Fundamental Rights, enshrined in Part III (Articles 12–35), guarantee justiciable civil-political liberties like equality (Article 14), freedom of speech (Article 19), and life with dignity (Article 21). Violations allow direct court enforcement, ensuring political democracy by checking State overreach. In contrast, DPSPs in Part IV (Articles 36–51) are non-justiciable policy directives for the State to foster social-economic justice, such as uniform civil code (Article 44), free education (Article 45), and worker welfare (Article 43). They promote a welfare state but lack legal enforceability. The relationship evolved through judicial interpretation. Early cases like Champakam Dorairajan (1951) prioritized Fundamental Rights, but the 25th Amendment (1971) and Kesavananda Bharati (1973) affirmed DPSPs' importance without subordinating rights. Courts now harmonize them—e.g., Golaknath and Minerva Mills cases stressed mutual reinforcement for comprehensive democracy. This interplay ensures rights protect individuals while DPSPs guide progressive governance, embodying the Constitution's dual vision of liberty and justice.