UPSC Prelims 2021 Q91: Indian Polity – Directive Principles Of State Policy
- (a) the Right to Equality
- (b) the Directive Principles of State Policy
- (c) the Right to Freedom
- (d) the Concept of Welfare
Answer: (b) the Directive Principles of State Policy
Explanation
Concentration of Wealth: Which Constitutional Provision?
| Provision | Deals with Concentration of Wealth? |
|---|---|
| Right to Equality (Articles 14-18) | No - equality before law, not economic |
| Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs) | YES - Article 39(b) and 39(c) direct the State to ensure that ownership and control of material resources are so distributed as to subserve the common good; and that the operation of the economic system does not result in concentration of wealth and means of production to common detriment |
| Right to Freedom (Article 19) | No - civil freedoms |
| Concept of Welfare | Yes but not specific constitutional violation category |
Answer: (b) the Directive Principles of State Policy.
Article 39(c) specifically states: 'that the operation of the economic system does not result in the concentration of wealth and means of production to the common detriment.'
Though DPSPs are not enforceable in courts, they guide State policy. Violating DPSPs is a policy failure, not a legally challengeable act.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Right to Equality (Article 14-18) prohibits discrimination and ensures equal treatment - it does not directly address economic concentration.
- (b) CORRECT. Concentration of wealth violates the Directive Principles of State Policy - specifically Article 39(b) and 39(c) which direct the State to prevent concentration of wealth and material resources. DPSPs are not enforceable in courts but guide State policy.
- (c) Incorrect. Right to Freedom (Article 19) covers civil freedoms (speech, assembly, movement, association, profession) - not economic concentration.
- (d) Incorrect. 'Concept of Welfare' is a general idea but not a specific constitutional provision that gets 'violated'.
Key point
Concentration of wealth violates DPSP - specifically Article 39(c): 'operation of economic system should not result in concentration of wealth and means of production to common detriment.' DPSPs are not enforceable but guide State policy (socialist/welfare state vision).
Remember
Under the Indian Constitution, concentration of wealth violates the DIRECTIVE PRINCIPLES OF STATE POLICY - specifically Article 39(c) which requires that the operation of the economic system should not result in concentration of wealth and means of production to the common detriment. Correct answer: (b).
Common mistakes
- Assuming concentration of wealth violates fundamental rights. It violates DPSPs (non-justiciable directives), not FRs.
- Not knowing Articles 39(b) and 39(c) - Nehru-era socialist principles inserted in DPSPs.
- Confusing DPSPs (non-justiciable, Part IV) with Fundamental Rights (justiciable, Part III).
Exam tip
DPSPs on socialism (Articles 38-39): (i) 38 = promote welfare + reduce inequalities; (ii) 39(a) = adequate means of livelihood; (iii) 39(b) = equitable distribution of resources; (iv) 39(c) = prevent concentration of wealth; (v) 39(d) = equal pay for equal work; (vi) 39(e-f) = protect health of workers and children. All derived from Irish DPSPs.
Sources
- Constitution of India - Article 39(b) and 39(c) (Directive Principles)
- M. Laxmikanth - Indian Polity (Chapter on Directive Principles)