DAV Class 8 SST Chapter 14 The Nationalist Movement (1870 to 1947) Solutions
A. Tick (✔) the correct option.
- The Fundamental Right that came into existence in 2002 is the—
Answer: (b) Right to Education - Writs can be issued by—
Answer: (d) a High Court - Which of the following statements regarding the Fundamental Rights is incorrect?
Answer: (b) One can move to any court of law in case of violation of Fundamental Rights. - Identify the Directive Principle based on the Gandhian philosophy.
Answer: (b) To organise village panchayats. - Which one of the following promotes secularism?
Answer: (d) Communal harmony.
B. Fill in the blanks
- Right to Education is a Fundamental Right.
- Writs are issued to protect Fundamental Rights.
- Fundamental Rights are justiciable in nature.
- Directive Principles are non-justiciable.
- Secularism promotes communal harmony.
C. Write True or False
- Fundamental Rights are available to all persons.
Answer: False - The Right to Education was added by the 86th Amendment.
Answer: True - Directive Principles are enforceable by courts.
Answer: False - Writs are issued to safeguard Fundamental Rights.
Answer: True - India is a secular state.
Answer: True
D. Answer the following questions in brief
1. Why are Fundamental Rights important in a democracy?
Fundamental Rights are the backbone of any democratic country. They protect the freedom and dignity of individuals and ensure that every citizen is treated equally before the law. These rights give people the confidence to express their opinions, follow any religion, and live without fear of discrimination or injustice.
In a democracy like India, where people come from diverse backgrounds, Fundamental Rights act as a shield against misuse of power by the government. They also allow citizens to approach the courts if their rights are violated. In this way, they help in building a society that is fair, respectful, and inclusive for everyone.
2. Explain the significance of writs in protecting Fundamental Rights.
Writs are powerful tools that help protect the Fundamental Rights of citizens. They are issued by higher courts like the Supreme Court and High Courts when a person’s rights are violated.
There are different types of writs such as Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Prohibition, Certiorari, and Quo Warranto, each serving a specific purpose. For example, Habeas Corpus protects a person from unlawful detention, while Mandamus orders a public authority to perform its duty.
The importance of writs lies in the fact that they provide quick and effective justice. They ensure that no authority can act unfairly or illegally. Thus, writs strengthen the rule of law and safeguard individual freedoms.
3. Why are Directive Principles of State Policy important?
Directive Principles of State Policy guide the government in making laws and policies for the welfare of the people. Although they are not enforceable by courts, they play a very important role in shaping a just and fair society.
They aim to reduce inequality, provide better living conditions, promote education, and ensure equal opportunities for all. For example, principles like equal pay for equal work and promotion of village panchayats reflect the idea of social justice.
In a human sense, Directive Principles show that the government cares not only about laws but also about the well-being and happiness of its people.
4. Differentiate between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles.
Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles both aim to improve people’s lives, but they differ in their nature and function.
- Fundamental Rights are enforceable by courts. If they are violated, a person can seek legal help.
- Directive Principles are not enforceable by courts; they act as guidelines for the government.
- Fundamental Rights focus on individual freedoms, while Directive Principles focus on social and economic welfare.
- Fundamental Rights ensure protection, whereas Directive Principles aim at development and progress.
Together, they create a balance between individual liberty and collective welfare, which is essential for a healthy democracy.
5. How do Fundamental Duties help in maintaining harmony in society?
Fundamental Duties remind citizens that along with rights, they also have responsibilities towards the nation and society. These duties encourage people to respect the Constitution, national symbols, and the rich cultural heritage of India.
They promote values like unity, discipline, and respect for others. For example, duties such as promoting harmony and protecting the environment help create a peaceful and sustainable society.
From a human perspective, Fundamental Duties make citizens more aware and responsible. When people follow these duties sincerely, it leads to mutual respect, cooperation, and national unity, making society a better place to live in.
E. Answer the following questions
1. Explain the importance of Fundamental Rights in our Constitution.
Fundamental Rights are very important because they protect the freedom, dignity, and equality of every citizen. They ensure that no one is treated unfairly on the basis of religion, caste, gender, or place of birth.
These rights allow people to express their thoughts freely, practice any religion, and live with respect. In case of violation, citizens can go to the courts for justice. This makes the government accountable and prevents misuse of power.
👉 In simple words, Fundamental Rights help create a society where every individual feels safe, respected, and equal.
2. Describe the different types of Fundamental Rights.
The Indian Constitution provides six main Fundamental Rights:
- Right to Equality
Ensures equal treatment before the law and prohibits discrimination. - Right to Freedom
Gives freedom of speech, expression, movement, and occupation. - Right against Exploitation
Prohibits child labour and forced labour. - Right to Freedom of Religion
Allows people to follow and practice any religion. - Cultural and Educational Rights
Protect the rights of minorities to preserve their culture and establish educational institutions. - Right to Constitutional Remedies
Allows citizens to approach courts if their rights are violated.
👉 These rights together ensure a fair and just society.
3. What are Directive Principles of State Policy? Explain their role.
Directive Principles of State Policy are guidelines given to the government to help it make laws and policies for the welfare of the people.
Although they are not enforceable by courts, they are very important for building a just society. They aim to reduce inequality, improve living standards, promote education, and ensure equal opportunities.
For example, providing equal pay for equal work and organizing village panchayats are part of these principles.
👉 They act like a moral guide for the government, helping it work for the overall development of society.
4. Explain the meaning and importance of Fundamental Duties.
Fundamental Duties are the responsibilities that every citizen should follow towards the nation. These were added to remind people that along with rights, they also have duties.
Some important duties include respecting the Constitution, protecting the environment, promoting harmony, and safeguarding public property.
These duties are important because they encourage citizens to become responsible and aware individuals. When people perform their duties sincerely, it leads to unity, discipline, and peace in society.
👉 In short, Fundamental Duties help build a strong and responsible nation.
5. How do Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, and Fundamental Duties work together?
These three elements together form the foundation of Indian democracy:
- Fundamental Rights protect the freedom and dignity of individuals.
- Directive Principles guide the government to work for social and economic welfare.
- Fundamental Duties remind citizens of their responsibilities towards society and the nation.
When these three work together, they create a balance between rights, responsibilities, and welfare.
👉 This balance helps in building a society that is not only free but also fair, responsible, and progressive.
Also Read: Class 8 SST Chapter 15 India Marches Ahead Question Answer | DAV Solutions
and Chapter 16 Our Constitution – Complete Guide with Answers | DAV Class 8 SST Solutions