Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Directive Principles of State Policy:

  1. The Principles spell out the socio-economic democracy in the country
  2. The provisions contained in these Principles are not enforceable by any court.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • 1 only
  • 2 only
  • Both 1 and 2
  • Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2

Salient features of the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP):
  • Constitutional Instructions: They denote the constitutional instructions to the State in dealing with legislative, executive, and administrative matters. Thus, they serve as ideals to be kept in mind by the state while formulating policies and enacting laws.
  • Non-Justiciable: Unlike the Fundamental Rights, which are legally enforceable, the DPSPs are non-justiciable. Thus, they are not legally enforceable by the courts for their violation and the governments cannot be compelled to implement them.
  • Aimed at Welfare State: They aim at realizing the ideals of Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity as envisaged in the Preamble to the Indian Constitution. Thus, they embody the concept of a ‘Welfare State’.
  • Aimed at Socio-Economic Democracy: They constitute very comprehensive economic, social, and political programs that seek to establish socio-economic democracy in the country. Thus, they aim to establish a modern democratic state.
  • Promote Good Governance: They allow for adaptation and innovation in governance to meet the objectives of socio-economic development. Thus, they promote good governance practices.
  • Resemblance to ‘Instrument of Instructions’: As noted by Dr. Ambedkar, they resemble the ‘Instrument of Instructions’ enumerated in the Government of India Act of 1935.
  • Aids Judiciary: Though non-justiciable, they help the courts in examining and determining the constitutional validity of a law.
    • As ruled by the Supreme Court, in determining the constitutionality of any law, if a court finds that the law in question seeks to give effect to a Directive Principle, it may consider such law to be ‘reasonable’ in relation to Article 14 (Equality before Law and Equal Protection of Laws) or Article 19 (Protection of Six Freedoms).