Certain Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) Called Gandhian Principles?

Introduction

The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) are guidelines in Part IV (Articles 36-51) of the Indian Constitution, directing the government to promote social and economic welfare. While these principles are not legally enforceable, they serve as an essential framework for policymaking in India.

Among the DPSPs, certain provisions are specifically referred to as Gandhian Principles because they reflect the ideologies of Mahatma Gandhi, emphasizing village self-governance, rural development, economic self-sufficiency, and social justice. These principles incorporate Gandhi’s vision of an ideal society (Ram Rajya) based on non-violence, simplicity, and self-reliance.

This article delves into why some DPSPs are called Gandhian Principles, their significance, judicial interpretation, and impact on Indian policies.

What are Gandhian Principles in DPSP?

The Gandhian Principles in DPSP focus on the upliftment of rural India, cottage industries, prohibition of alcohol, animal protection, and promoting social harmony. These principles align with Gandhi’s philosophy of Sarvodaya (welfare for all) and Antyodaya (upliftment of the poorest).

Articles Representing Gandhian Principles

Why are These Called Gandhian Principles?

These principles are named Gandhian Principles because they are directly inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s ideas on social and economic development.

1. Emphasis on Village Self-Governance (Article 40 – Panchayati Raj)

• Gandhi believed India’s strength lies in its villages and promoted Gram Swaraj (self-sufficient village republics).
  
  
• He envisioned a system where each village governs itself democratically.
  
  
• Article 40 led to the 73rd Constitutional Amendment (1992), establishing a three-tier Panchayati Raj system.

2. Promotion of Rural and Cottage Industries (Article 43 – Khadi and Small-Scale Industries)

• Gandhi supported self-sufficiency through Khadi and small-scale industries to reduce dependence on British goods.
  
  
• Article 43 encourages the development of cottage industries to boost rural employment and economic self-reliance.

3. Upliftment of Weaker Sections (Article 46 – Social Justice for SCs/STs and OBCs)

• Gandhi believed in uplifting the oppressed sections (Harijans or untouchables).
  
  
• Article 46 directs the government to provide education, economic benefits, and reservation policies for weaker sections.

4. Prohibition of Alcohol (Article 47 – Public Health and Morality)

• Gandhi viewed alcohol consumption as a social evil and emphasized its prohibition for moral and health reasons.
  
  
• Several Indian states like Gujarat and Bihar have implemented alcohol prohibition laws based on Article 47.

5. Protection of Cows and Animal Husbandry (Article 48 – Ethical Treatment of Animals)

• Gandhi regarded cow protection as a moral duty and promoted ethical treatment of animals.
  
  
• Article 48 bans cow slaughter and promotes animal husbandry for economic and ethical reasons.

Judicial Interpretation and Implementation

Although DPSPs are not justiciable, the judiciary has often upheld Gandhian Principles through landmark judgments:

1. Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973)

• Recognized DPSPs as essential for governance and emphasized their harmonization with Fundamental Rights.

2. Minerva Mills Case (1980)

• The Supreme Court ruled that Fundamental Rights and DPSPs are equally significant.

3. Mohd. Hanif Qureshi Case (1958) – Cow Slaughter Ban

• Upheld Article 48, supporting state laws prohibiting cow slaughter.

4. State of Tamil Nadu v. Champakam Dorairajan (1951) – Reservation Policy

• Led to the First Constitutional Amendment, enabling reservation for backward classes (Article 46).

Impact of Gandhian Principles on Indian Policies

The Gandhian DPSPs have shaped many government policies and laws in India:

1. Panchayati Raj System (73rd Amendment, 1992)

• Established village panchayats as local self-governments (Article 40).
• Empowers rural communities in decision-making.

2. Promotion of Khadi and Small-Scale Industries

• Government initiatives like KVIC (Khadi and Village Industries Commission) promote handloom and rural industries (Article 43).

3. Educational Upliftment of Weaker Sections

• Right to Education Act (2009) ensures free education for children (Article 46).
• Reservation in education and jobs for SCs, STs, and OBCs.

4. Alcohol Prohibition Laws

• States like Gujarat, Bihar, and Nagaland have banned alcohol following Article 47.

5. Cow Protection Laws

• Several states have implemented laws prohibiting cow slaughter (Article 48).

Challenges in Implementing Gandhian DPSPs

Despite their importance, many Gandhian DPSPs face implementation challenges:

1. Lack of Legal Enforcement – DPSPs are not enforceable in courts, making implementation difficult.
   
   
2. Political Opposition – Policies like alcohol prohibition face resistance due to economic losses.
   
   
3. Urbanization and Industrialization – The shift to urban economies has reduced the focus on village industries.
   
   
4. Religious and Cultural Sensitivities – Cow protection laws often spark political and religious debates.

Conclusion

The Gandhian Principles in DPSPs reflect Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of a just and self-sufficient India. They emphasize rural development, self-governance, prohibition of harmful substances, and protection of the underprivileged.

Even though DPSPs are not legally enforceable, they have significantly influenced laws and policies, helping India move towards a welfare state. The 73rd Amendment (Panchayati Raj), reservation policies, alcohol prohibition laws, and small-scale industries promotion are direct outcomes of these principles.

As India progresses, integrating Gandhian ideals with modern governance will help build an inclusive, sustainable, and just society, ensuring that Gandhi’s dream of Gram Swaraj and Sarvodaya lives on.