Which of the following is true about Fundamental Rights and DPSPs?

Question

Which of the following is true about Fundamental Rights and DPSPs?

1. A. Both are justiciable and enforceable by courts
2. B. DPSPs override Fundamental Rights when in conflict
3. C. Fundamental Rights are justiciable, but DPSPs are not (Correct answer)
4. D. DPSPs are guaranteed by the Constitution; Fundamental Rights are optional

Correct Answer

Option C — Fundamental Rights are justiciable, but DPSPs are not

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is Fundamental Rights are justiciable, but DPSPs are not.

Key Points

• Fundamental Rights (Part III) are justiciable — courts can enforce them directly.
• The Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV, Articles 36–51) are non-justiciable: the Constitution itself declares them not enforceable by any court, though they are fundamental in governance.
• So DPSPs do not override Fundamental Rights, and Fundamental Rights are not optional. The core contrast is enforceability: rights are enforceable, directives are guiding.