Q. What is the meaning and significance of “fraternity” as enshrined in the preamble of the Indian Constitution? In light of current social realities, evaluate how the ideal of fraternity has become more crucial for India’s unity and progress. (15 Marks, 250 words)

Answer:

Approach:

  • Introduction: Begin with the significance of fraternity as a core value in the Indian Constitution, highlighting its role in fostering unity and harmony in a diverse nation.
  • Body: 
    • Discuss the evolution of the concept of fraternity from ancient philosophical traditions to its political significance during the French Revolution​​​​.
    • Elaborate on how the Indian Constitution incorporates fraternity and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s emphasis on its importance alongside liberty and equality​.
    • Analyze the contemporary challenges that hinder the realization of fraternity, such as political polarization, social and economic disparities, and religious tensions​.
    • Discuss how the Indian judiciary has interpreted and upheld the principle of fraternity through various judgments​.
    • Suggest measures like promoting interfaith dialogue, celebrating diversity, and educating about constitutional values to strengthen fraternity in India​​.
  • Conclusion: Conclude by reiterating the importance of fraternity in the current Indian context and the need for collective efforts to overcome societal divisions and achieve the constitutional vision of unity and harmony.

 

Introduction:

The concept of fraternity, enshrined in the Indian Constitution, is not merely a word; it embodies the spirit of brotherhood, unity, and a collective identity among all Indians. This value is crucial for maintaining social harmony in a country as diverse as India.

Body:

Historical and Philosophical Foundations:

  • The idea of fraternity has its roots in ancient philosophical traditions. 
  • In ancient Greece, it was associated with sharing knowledge and wisdom, whereas in Medieval Europe, it was linked with religious and communal bonds.
  • The French Revolution brought fraternity into the political realm, symbolizing unity and solidarity among citizens​​​​.

Fraternity in the Indian Constitution:

  • Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar, a key architect of the Indian Constitution, emphasized the inseparability of liberty, equality, and fraternity as fundamental to Indian democracy. 
  • The Preamble of the Constitution includes fraternity to ensure the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the nation​​.

Current Challenges to Fraternity in India:

  • India faces numerous challenges that impede the realization of fraternity. Political polarization, lack of trust, and failure of constitutional morality erode the spirit of brotherhood. 
  • The caste system, social and economic inequalities, and religious tensions further challenge the notion of fraternity in India​​​​​​.

Judiciary’s Role in Promoting Fraternity:

  • The Indian judiciary has played a pivotal role in upholding fraternity through various landmark judgments. 
  • It has emphasized fraternity in relation to reservation policies and in promoting secularism, which is considered essential for fostering a fraternal society​​.

Measures to Achieve Fraternity:

  • Promoting interfaith dialogue, celebrating diversity, educating citizens about constitutional values, and encouraging volunteering and social initiatives are some of the measures to foster fraternity in India​​.

Conclusion: 

In the current socio-political context of India, where divisions based on caste, religion, and region are prevalent, the ideal of fraternity as envisioned by the framers of the Constitution has become even more significant. The path to achieving true fraternity involves overcoming these societal challenges and fostering a spirit of brotherhood and mutual respect, in line with the vision of the Constitution. By doing so, India can hope to achieve a more unified and harmonious society, essential for its unity and progress.

 

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Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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