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Enforceability of DPSPs
- Non-Justiciable Nature: DPSPs, as per Article 37, cannot be enforced by courts; no judicial order can compel the government to implement them. Yet, they are deemed “fundamental in the governance of the country,” obligating the State to reflect them in legislation.
- Political Accountability: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar noted in the Constituent Assembly that neglecting DPSPs invites political consequences. A government ignoring them risks electoral backlash, giving the Opposition a tool to challenge its legitimacy.
- Union’s Role via Article 355: Article 355 mandates the Union to ensure States adhere to the Constitution, including Part IV. The Union could theoretically direct States to implement DPSPs (e.g., free education under Article 45), using Article 365 against non-compliant States, though this remains untested.