Consider the following statements with reference to the Constitution o

Consider the following statements with reference to the Constitution of India :

  • 1. The word ‘socialist’ used in the Preamble is directly related to the principles contained under Article 39.
  • 2. The word ‘secular’ used in the Preamble is directly related to Article 29.
  • 3. The words ‘unity and integrity of the nation’ used in the Preamble are directly related to Article 51A.

Which of the above statements are correct?

1 and 2 only
2 and 3 only
1 and 3 only
1, 2 and 3
This question was previously asked in
UPSC Combined Section Officer – 2019-20
Statements 1 and 3 are correct, while statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1: The word ‘socialist’ in the Preamble aims at securing socio-economic justice. Article 39, a Directive Principle of State Policy, directs the state to ensure that the economic system does not result in the concentration of wealth and means of production to the common detriment and that there is equitable distribution of material resources, directly reflecting socialist principles.
Statement 3: The words ‘unity and integrity of the nation’ in the Preamble are directly related to Fundamental Duties under Article 51A, particularly 51A(c) (“to uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India”) and 51A(e) (“to promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood…”).
Statement 2: The word ‘secular’ in the Preamble signifies that India is a secular state. While Article 29 deals with the protection of the interests of minorities (language, script, culture), the principle of secularism is more directly reflected in Articles 25-28, which guarantee the freedom of religion to all persons.
The words ‘socialist’, ‘secular’, and ‘integrity’ were added to the Preamble by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976. Directive Principles (Part IV, Articles 36-51) provide guidelines for the state to establish a just and equitable social order, aligning with socialist ideals. Fundamental Duties (Part IVA, Article 51A) emphasize the responsibilities of citizens towards the nation, including maintaining unity and integrity.
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