[General Studies II: Polity ]   [250 words, 15 marks]  

 Answer Structure

• Introduction: Source of Fundamental Rights
• Body: Different articles of the Constitution
• Conclusion:  Definition of state &other provisions that promote unity

Answer

Introduction

The incorporation of Fundamental Rights as enforceable rights in the modern constitutional jurisdictional documents as well as the internationally recognised Charter of Human Rights, emanates from the doctrine of natural law and natural rights.

Body

In India, Fundamental Rights, although conferred on individuals and groups, secure the unity of India by removing well-known sources of discord. 

 Article 25 confers on any person the right to practise, profess, and propagate religion, and Article 26 confers on religious denominations the right to mandate their own affairs in matters of religion. Similarly, Articles 29 and 30 protect the cultural, educational and linguistic rights of the minorities. 

The unity of India is the sense that India, notwithstanding its division into several States in one country, and all its inhabitants are inhabitants of that one country, is provided for by Article 19 (1)(d),(e),(f) and (g). 

This unity is also emphasised by Article 14, which provides for equality before the law and the equal protection of the laws; Article 15, which prohibits discrimination against citizens on the grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth; and Article 16, which provides for equality of opportunity to all citizens in matters of public employment,  abolishing “untouchability” [Article 17], throwing open Hindu religious institutions of a public charter to “untouchables” [Article 25] the Constitution has tried to remove source of bitter discord.

Conclusion

Article 12 defines “the State” very widely to include many authorities other than the States strictly so-called, and subjects those authorities to the discipline of fundamental rights. 

The provisions for common citizenship, a common electoral roll, and the freedom of inter-state trade and commerce were all designed to promote India’s unity. 

 (The model answer provided above strictly follows the word limit, the above answer is compiled in 277   words.)

Practising answers sticking to the word limit will aid the aspirants to write answers precisely and to the point by avoiding unnecessary things. 

(Titles introduction, body and conclusion are just for reference, aspirants should not write these titles in the answer sheet.)