Which of the following features of the Constitution of India is borrowed from the Constitution of Ireland?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is: (b) Directive principles of state policy

• The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) in the Indian Constitution have been borrowed from the Constitution of Ireland (1937).
• These principles are enshrined in Part IV (Articles 36-51) of the Indian Constitution and serve as guidelines for the government to establish a just and equitable society. They are not enforceable by the courts but are considered fundamental in governance.
• The Irish Constitution itself drew inspiration from the Spanish Constitution of 1931, incorporating provisions that promote social and economic justice.
• Similarly, the Indian DPSPs aim to establish a welfare state and ensure economic democracy.

Important Key Points:

1. DPSPs are non-justiciable, meaning they cannot be enforced in a court of law.
2. They are inspired by the concept of socio-economic justice as envisioned in the Irish Constitution.
3. The Indian Constitution classifies DPSPs into three categories: Socialist, Gandhian, and Liberal-Intellectual.
4. While not enforceable, courts interpret fundamental rights in harmony with DPSPs.
5. Some DPSPs were implemented over time, such as the Right to Education (86th Amendment, 2002).
6. The 42nd Amendment Act, 1976 emphasized DPSPs by adding new provisions, like the protection of the environment.
7. Article 39(b) & 39(c) have been given precedence over fundamental rights (Article 14 & 19) after the 42nd Amendment.

Information Booster:

• Rule of Law  – Borrowed from the British Constitution and signifies equality before law.
• Single Citizenship  – Also taken from the British Constitution, ensuring one nationality for all Indians.
• Parliamentary System of Government  – Adopted from the British Westminster Model, where the executive is responsible to the legislature.