The concept of Fundamental Duties refers to the responsibilities that citizens bear towards their nation. In India, these duties are outlined in Part IV-A of the Constitution under Article 51A. Initially, the Indian Constitution did not include these duties; they were incorporated by the 42nd Amendment in 1976, following recommendations from the Swaran Singh Committee. The original list comprised ten duties, with an eleventh added by the 86th Amendment in 2002.
At the core of a democratic society is the principle of upholding the rule of law and valuing shared ownership. One of the essential values enshrined in the Indian Constitution under Fundamental Duties is the duty to safeguard public property and renounce violence. This duty emphasizes that every citizen is responsible not only for the protection of public assets but also for expressing dissent in a non-violent manner.
In a vibrant democracy like India, citizens often express their concerns through protests and demonstrations. Such events serve as platforms for public discourse. Peaceful protests highlight a mature democracy where freedom of expression is upheld. For instance, the non-violent protests led by Mahatma Gandhi during India’s freedom struggle set a global standard for peaceful resistance.
While protests are vital to democratic engagement, they must not turn into chaos or vandalism. Citizens who are aware of their Fundamental Duties refrain from destructive actions. For instance, acts such as burning buses or damaging statues not only undermine national wealth but also tarnish the credibility of the protests. Such actions can lead to unintended consequences and harm to other citizens.
Public properties—including parks, monuments, and libraries—are shared resources that benefit all. Their upkeep ensures that future generations can enjoy these assets. Participation in community initiatives like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Campaign) showcases a citizen's commitment to preserving public spaces. Such efforts also foster community spirit and promote social harmony.
An engaged and vigilant citizenry is essential for a secure society. Proactive measures, such as reporting instances of vandalism or threats, contribute to maintaining order. For example, if someone witnesses the defacement of a public monument or sees damage to public transportation, reporting these acts helps curtail such behaviors and ensures accountability.
Public properties are not merely functional assets; many are symbols of the country’s rich cultural heritage. Responsible visitors to places like the Red Fort or Qutub Minar must avoid defacing or vandalizing these landmarks. Actions such as scribbling on walls or littering degrade national treasures and violate one's fundamental duty to protect public property.
During civil disagreements, the essence of democracy is often put to the test. For instance, while protests regarding the Citizenship Amendment Act sparked national debates, many demonstrators emphasized non-violence and peaceful assembly. Responsible citizens ensured their grievances were voiced without causing damage to public infrastructure, demonstrating the fundamental duty of renouncing violence.
Public transport systems, such as buses and metros, serve millions daily. Responsible commuters take care to avoid damaging seats or vandalizing walls. When the Delhi Metro was launched, its cleanliness and efficiency were celebrated, largely due to the collective responsibility shown by commuters in maintaining its condition.
The Fundamental Duty to safeguard public property and abstain from violence is not just a constitutional mandate; it reflects the ethos of a responsible citizenry. By embracing these duties, citizens contribute to a harmonious and progressive society, reinforcing the ideals of the Indian Constitution and upholding the nation's collective heritage.
Kutos : AI Assistant!
