Table of Contents
The Indian Constitution provides for reasonable restrictions on Fundamental Rights, but while determining reasonableness, the following must be kept in mind:
The Indian Constitution provides for reasonable restrictions on Fundamental Rights, but while determining reasonableness, the following must be kept in mind:
I. The interest of the general public should be protected.
II. Existing social values and social necessities should not be obstructed.
III. The Directive Principles of State Policy may be ignored.
IV. Collective interest is not broad.
(A) II and III are correct
(B) I and II are correct
(C) Only IV is correct
(D) Only I is correct
Correct Answer:- (B) I and II are correct ✅ (BPSC Answer marked as D)
Explanation
The Indian Constitution provides for reasonable restrictions on Fundamental Rights, but these restrictions are not arbitrary and must be justified on specific grounds. Let’s examine the given statements based on the NCERT Class 11 Political Science textbook, ‘Indian Constitution at Work’.
I. The interest of the general public is protected.
- This statement is correct. The NCERT textbook highlights that fundamental rights are not absolute and can be subjected to “reasonable restrictions”. Article 19, which guarantees freedoms like speech and expression, explicitly mentions grounds such as “the interest of the sovereignty and integrity of India,” “security of the State,” “public order,” and “decency or morality” for imposing such restrictions.
- The phrase “in the interest of the general public” broadly encompasses these specific grounds, emphasizing the need to safeguard the well-being and order of society. For example, restrictions on free movement can be imposed in the interest of the general public, including for environmental protection or managing public health crises.
II. Existing social values and social needs are not hampered.
- This statement is also correct. Restrictions on fundamental rights must be reasonable and cannot be excessive or arbitrary. They should align with the prevailing social values and needs, not undermine them.
- The grounds for restriction often include terms like “decency or morality”, which inherently relate to social values and norms. Restrictions related to freedom of religion, for instance, can be imposed to ensure public order, morality, and health, reflecting the consideration of social harmony. The NCERT textbook on page 36 discusses how the government can intervene in religious matters for the sake of public order, morality, and health.
III. Directive Principles of State Policy can be ignored.
- This statement is incorrect. The NCERT textbook emphasizes that while Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) are not enforceable in courts, they are fundamental to the governance of the country. It is the duty of the State to apply these principles in making laws.
- The Supreme Court, in various judgments, has attempted to harmonize Fundamental Rights and DPSPs, acknowledging that the State may impose restrictions on fundamental rights to give effect to DPSPs, especially those promoting socio-economic justice. Therefore, DPSPs cannot be simply ignored.
IV. Collective interest is not broad.
- This statement is incorrect. The concept of “reasonable restrictions” itself implies a balance between individual rights and the broader collective interest. When imposing restrictions, the State considers the impact on the larger society.
- Restrictions on freedom of speech, assembly, or movement, for instance, are often justified on grounds related to public order or the security of the State, which are inherently tied to collective interests. The very existence of restrictions suggests that collective interest is considered important and wide-ranging.
Conclusion:
Based on the analysis drawing from the NCERT textbook, statements I and II are correct. Therefore, the correct option is (B) I and II are correct.
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71st BPSC Answer Key 2025 With Explanation in Hindi and English