1 Mar 2026·Source: The Hindu

4 min

Polity & GovernanceSocial IssuesNEWS

Constitutional values must be inculcated early, starting from home: Justice

Q: How would you structure a 250-word Mains answer on the importance of constitutional values in society?

A 250-word answer could be structured as follows: * Introduction: Briefly define constitutional values and their significance. * Body: Discuss the importance of inculcating these values early, linking it to improved societal behavior, a more ethical legal profession, and a stronger democracy. Give examples. * Conclusion: Reiterate the importance of constitutional values for a just and equitable society. Key points: Introduction: Briefly define constitutional values and their significance.. Body: Discuss the importance of inculcating these values early, linking it to improved societal behavior, a more ethical legal profession, and a stronger democracy. Give examples.. Conclusion: Reiterate the importance of constitutional values for a just and equitable society.

Q: What are some practical ways to inculcate constitutional values early, starting from home?

Practical ways include: * Promoting equality: Ensuring equal opportunities and treatment for all family members. * Encouraging critical thinking: Fostering open discussions and questioning of societal norms. * Respecting diversity: Celebrating different cultures, religions, and perspectives within the family and community. * Practicing empathy: Encouraging children to understand and share the feelings of others. Key points: Promoting equality: Ensuring equal opportunities and treatment for all family members.. Encouraging critical thinking: Fostering open discussions and questioning of societal norms.. Respecting diversity: Celebrating different cultures, religions, and perspectives within the family and community.. Practicing empathy: Encouraging children to understand and share the feelings of others.

Justice Muralidhar emphasizes early constitutional value inculcation for societal behavior change.

Former Orissa High Court Chief Justice S. Muralidhar stated that constitutional thinking must begin at home, speaking at The Hindu Justice Unplugged 2026. He observed the increase in media coverage of courts and lawyers, highlighting the judiciary's active role in citizens' lives. Justice Muralidhar also recognized the positive influence of national law schools on the legal profession. He emphasized that lawyers are products of society, and societal behavior will only improve if constitutional values are instilled early. He also advocated for simplifying legal language to enhance understanding and access to justice.

Justice Muralidhar's remarks underscore the importance of early education in constitutional principles. He believes that unless these values are ingrained from a young age, the legal profession and society at large will struggle to uphold them. The focus on simplifying legal language is aimed at making the legal system more accessible and understandable to the general public.

This news is relevant to understanding the importance of constitutional values in shaping society and the legal profession, making it pertinent for UPSC exams, particularly in the Polity and Governance sections (GS Paper II).

Key Facts

Constitutional thinking must start from home.

Lawyers are products of society.

Courts are playing a very active role in people’s life.

National law schools are improving the quality of legal education.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper II (Polity and Governance): Constitutional values, Fundamental Rights, DPSPs, Judiciary

Essay Paper: Role of constitutional values in nation-building, Importance of education in promoting civic responsibility

Potential Questions: Analyze the significance of constitutional values in contemporary Indian society. Discuss the role of education in promoting these values.

In Simple Words

Constitutional values are like the basic rules and good habits we learn early in life. They guide how we treat each other and how our country should be run. If everyone understands and follows these values, society works better.

India Angle

In India, this means respecting people of different religions, castes, and backgrounds. It also means standing up for what's right, even when it's difficult. It's about making sure everyone has a fair chance.

For Instance

Think about a school where students from all backgrounds are treated equally and encouraged to speak their minds. That's constitutional values in action. It creates a more inclusive and fair environment for everyone.

If people don't care about constitutional values, then some people will be treated unfairly, and the country won't work as well. It affects everyone's daily life.

Constitutional values: Live them, learn them, pass them on.

Former Orissa High Court Chief Justice S. Muralidhar spoke at The Hindu Justice Unplugged 2026, emphasizing that constitutional thinking must begin at home. He noted the significant increase in media coverage of courts and lawyers, highlighting the active role of courts in people's lives.

Justice Muralidhar also acknowledged the positive impact of national law schools on the legal profession. He stressed that lawyers are products of society, and unless constitutional values are instilled early, societal behavior won't change. He advocated for simplifying legal language to improve understanding and access to justice.

Expert Analysis

To fully grasp the significance of Justice Muralidhar's statement, several key concepts related to constitutional values and their implementation need to be understood.

The Preamble of the Indian Constitution serves as the introductory statement that outlines the guiding principles and objectives of the Constitution. Adopted on January 22, 1947, it declares India to be a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic and secures to all its citizens justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. Justice Muralidhar's emphasis on instilling constitutional values early aligns directly with the Preamble's objectives, suggesting that these values should be internalized from a young age to build a society that upholds these principles.

The Fundamental Rights, enshrined in Part III of the Indian Constitution (Articles 12-35), guarantee essential freedoms and protect individuals from arbitrary state action. These rights include the Right to Equality (Articles 14-18), Right to Freedom (Articles 19-22), and Right to Constitutional Remedies (Articles 32-35). Justice Muralidhar's call for constitutional thinking from home implies that awareness and respect for these fundamental rights should be cultivated within families and communities, ensuring that citizens grow up understanding and valuing these rights.

The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs), found in Part IV of the Constitution, outline the ideals that the state should strive to achieve. While not enforceable by courts, they serve as guiding principles for governance. The DPSPs aim to create a just and equitable society, complementing the Fundamental Rights. Justice Muralidhar's advocacy for constitutional values suggests that these directive principles should also be part of early education, fostering a sense of social responsibility and commitment to the welfare of all citizens.

For UPSC aspirants, understanding the interplay between the Preamble, Fundamental Rights, and DPSPs is crucial. Questions in both Prelims and Mains exams often test the candidate's knowledge of these concepts and their relevance to contemporary issues. Specifically, aspirants should be prepared to analyze how constitutional values can be promoted through education and societal practices, and how these values contribute to the overall development and governance of the country. This topic is highly relevant for GS Paper II (Polity and Governance) and Essay papers.

Visual Insights

Key Takeaways from Justice Muralidhar's Address

Highlights from Justice Muralidhar's speech at The Hindu Justice Unplugged 2026, focusing on constitutional values and legal accessibility.

Focus on Early Inculcation: Constitutional values
Increased Media Coverage: Courts and Lawyers
Impact of National Law Schools: Positive

More Information

Background

The Indian Constitution, adopted on January 26, 1950, is the supreme law of India. It establishes the framework for the country's political system, defines the powers and functions of government institutions, and sets out the fundamental rights and duties of citizens. The Constitution is based on the principles of Sovereignty, Socialism, Secularism, Democracy, and Republic, as enshrined in the Preamble. The emphasis on constitutional values stems from the understanding that a well-functioning democracy requires citizens who are aware of their rights and responsibilities, and who are committed to upholding the principles of justice, equality, and liberty. The inclusion of Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy reflects the Constitution's commitment to both individual freedoms and social welfare. These provisions aim to create a society where all citizens can live with dignity and have equal opportunities. The judiciary plays a crucial role in interpreting and enforcing the Constitution. Landmark cases such as the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973) have established the principle of basic structure, which limits the power of Parliament to amend the Constitution in ways that would alter its fundamental features. This ensures that the core values and principles of the Constitution are protected and preserved for future generations.

Latest Developments

In recent years, there has been increasing emphasis on promoting constitutional literacy and awareness among citizens. Various initiatives have been launched by government and civil society organizations to educate people about their rights and duties under the Constitution. These initiatives include workshops, seminars, and online resources aimed at reaching a wide audience.

The judiciary has also played an active role in promoting constitutional values. Through its judgments and pronouncements, the Supreme Court has consistently upheld the principles of justice, equality, and liberty. The Court has also emphasized the importance of access to justice for all citizens, regardless of their social or economic status.

Looking ahead, there is a growing recognition of the need to integrate constitutional education into the school curriculum. This would ensure that young people are exposed to constitutional values from an early age, fostering a sense of civic responsibility and promoting a culture of respect for the rule of law. The National Education Policy 2020 also emphasizes value-based education, which aligns with the goal of instilling constitutional values in students.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is Justice Muralidhar emphasizing early inculcation of constitutional values now? What's the trigger?

Justice Muralidhar's emphasis comes amidst increasing media coverage of courts, highlighting the judiciary's active role in citizens' lives. This increased visibility likely prompts the call for a stronger foundation of constitutional values to guide societal behavior and ensure a more just and equitable society.

2. How does instilling constitutional values early connect to improving the legal profession in India?

Justice Muralidhar believes lawyers are products of society. Early education in constitutional principles aims to improve societal behavior, which, in turn, positively influences the ethical and professional conduct of lawyers. Furthermore, the rise of national law schools is also contributing to a better legal profession.

3. What specific aspect of this news is most relevant for UPSC Prelims?

For Prelims, focus on the fundamental principles enshrined in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution: Sovereignty, Socialism, Secularism, Democracy, and Republic. UPSC often frames questions around these concepts, testing your understanding of their meaning and implications.

Exam Tip

Remember the order of the principles in the Preamble. A common trick is to jumble them up in the options.

4. How would you structure a 250-word Mains answer on the importance of constitutional values in society?

A 250-word answer could be structured as follows: * Introduction: Briefly define constitutional values and their significance. * Body: Discuss the importance of inculcating these values early, linking it to improved societal behavior, a more ethical legal profession, and a stronger democracy. Give examples. * Conclusion: Reiterate the importance of constitutional values for a just and equitable society.

•Introduction: Briefly define constitutional values and their significance.
•Body: Discuss the importance of inculcating these values early, linking it to improved societal behavior, a more ethical legal profession, and a stronger democracy. Give examples.
•Conclusion: Reiterate the importance of constitutional values for a just and equitable society.

5. This emphasis on constitutional values sounds similar to the concept of 'constitutional morality'. What's the actual difference?

Constitutional values are the specific principles enshrined in the Constitution (e.g., liberty, equality, fraternity). Constitutional morality, a term used by Dr. Ambedkar, refers to the commitment to uphold these values even when it's politically or socially inconvenient. It's about adhering to the spirit of the Constitution, not just the letter.

6. What are some practical ways to inculcate constitutional values early, starting from home?

Practical ways include: * Promoting equality: Ensuring equal opportunities and treatment for all family members. * Encouraging critical thinking: Fostering open discussions and questioning of societal norms. * Respecting diversity: Celebrating different cultures, religions, and perspectives within the family and community. * Practicing empathy: Encouraging children to understand and share the feelings of others.

•Promoting equality: Ensuring equal opportunities and treatment for all family members.
•Encouraging critical thinking: Fostering open discussions and questioning of societal norms.
•Respecting diversity: Celebrating different cultures, religions, and perspectives within the family and community.
•Practicing empathy: Encouraging children to understand and share the feelings of others.

7. Will this news most likely appear in GS Paper 2 (Polity) or GS Paper 4 (Ethics)?

This news is most relevant to GS Paper 2 (Polity and Governance) because it directly relates to constitutional values, the role of the judiciary, and legal education. While it touches upon ethical considerations, the primary focus is on the political and legal framework.

Exam Tip

When linking to GS Paper 4, focus on how a lack of constitutional values leads to corruption and unethical behavior in public service.

8. What is the government's official position on promoting constitutional literacy?

The government has launched various initiatives to promote constitutional literacy and awareness among citizens. These initiatives include workshops, seminars, and online resources aimed at educating people about their rights and duties under the Constitution.

9. If a Mains question asks 'Critically examine the role of education in promoting constitutional values,' what points should I include?

Include points such as: * The importance of curriculum design in incorporating constitutional principles. * The role of teachers in fostering critical thinking and ethical reasoning. * The need for inclusive education that respects diversity and promotes equality. * The challenges of implementing constitutional values in a society marked by inequality and discrimination. * The role of educational institutions in promoting social justice and civic engagement.

•The importance of curriculum design in incorporating constitutional principles.
•The role of teachers in fostering critical thinking and ethical reasoning.
•The need for inclusive education that respects diversity and promotes equality.
•The challenges of implementing constitutional values in a society marked by inequality and discrimination.
•The role of educational institutions in promoting social justice and civic engagement.

10. What are the potential long-term benefits of widespread constitutional literacy in India?

Long-term benefits include: * Strengthened democracy through informed and engaged citizens. * Reduced social inequality and discrimination. * Improved governance and accountability. * Greater respect for the rule of law. * A more just and equitable society.

•Strengthened democracy through informed and engaged citizens.
•Reduced social inequality and discrimination.
•Improved governance and accountability.
•Greater respect for the rule of law.
•A more just and equitable society.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Preamble of the Indian Constitution: 1. It declares India to be a 'Sovereign, Democratic Republic'. 2. It was amended by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1976. 3. It is enforceable in the courts of law. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The Preamble declares India to be a 'Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic'. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The Preamble was amended once by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1976, which added the words 'Socialist', 'Secular', and 'Integrity'. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: The Preamble is not enforceable in the courts of law. It serves as a guiding light in the interpretation of the Constitution but does not grant substantive rights.

2. Which of the following Fundamental Rights is/are available only to citizens of India and not to foreigners? 1. Equality before the law 2. Protection of life and personal liberty 3. Freedom of speech and expression Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A.1 and 2 only
B.3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is INCORRECT: Equality before the law (Article 14) is available to both citizens and foreigners. Statement 2 is INCORRECT: Protection of life and personal liberty (Article 21) is available to both citizens and foreigners. Statement 3 is CORRECT: Freedom of speech and expression (Article 19) is available only to citizens of India.

3. With reference to the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs), consider the following statements: 1. They are enforceable by the courts. 2. They aim to promote social and economic justice. 3. They were inspired by the Irish Constitution. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is INCORRECT: DPSPs are not enforceable by the courts. Statement 2 is CORRECT: DPSPs aim to promote social and economic justice. Statement 3 is CORRECT: DPSPs were inspired by the Irish Constitution.