Explanations:The Indian Constitution, one of the world's longest and most detailed, has undergone several amendments since its adoption in 1950. One of the significant amendments was the 42nd Amendment, which was enacted in 1976. This amendment introduced the concept of Fundamental Duties into the Constitution. The idea of Fundamental Duties was a response to the recommendations of the Swaran Singh Committee, which was set up to suggest ways to strengthen the Constitution and make it more responsive to the needs of the people.
Fundamental Duties are a set of moral and civic responsibilities that citizens are expected to follow to uphold the spirit of the Constitution. These duties are enshrined in Part IV-A of the Constitution and consist of ten duties. They include obligations such as abiding by the Constitution and respecting its ideals, protecting the environment, promoting harmony and brotherhood, and safeguarding public property. The introduction of Fundamental Duties was a significant step in emphasizing the responsibilities of citizens alongside their rights.
The 42nd Amendment, which introduced Fundamental Duties, was a part of a series of amendments that were enacted during the Emergency period in India. The Emergency was a period of political turmoil and constitutional changes, and the 42nd Amendment was one of the most controversial amendments due to its extensive changes to the Constitution. Despite the controversy, the introduction of Fundamental Duties has been seen as a positive step in promoting civic responsibility and national unity.
It is important to note that while Fundamental Duties are a part of the Constitution, they are not enforceable by law. They serve as a guide for citizens to follow in their daily lives and contribute to the overall well-being of the nation. The introduction of Fundamental Duties in 1976 was a significant milestone in the constitutional history of India, emphasizing the importance of civic responsibility and the role of citizens in upholding the Constitution.