Introduction: Why Fundamental Rights Matter for UPSC Fundamental Rights form the soul of the Indian Constitution and are a high‑priority topic for UPSC Prelims and Mains (GS‑II) . Borrowed from global democratic traditions and refined through India’s own freedom struggle, these rights ensure political democracy, social justice, and individual liberty . As highlighted in the India Year Book , Fundamental Rights act as a constitutional guarantee against arbitrary state action and empower citizens to seek judicial protection. For UPSC aspirants, Fundamental Rights are not just static articles (Articles 12–35) but a dynamic area shaped by Supreme Court judgments, constitutional amendments, and contemporary debates . What Are Fundamental Rights? (UPSC Core Concept) Fundamental Rights are basic human freedoms guaranteed under Part III of the Indian Constitution . They are justiciable , meaning citizens can directly approach the courts for enforcement under Article 32 (Right to Cons...
🔍 Introduction: Why Citizenship Matters in Indian Polity Citizenship defines the legal and political relationship between an individual and the State . In India, the concept of citizenship gained exceptional importance during Partition (1947) due to large-scale migration across newly drawn borders. To address this historic challenge, the Constitution of India (Articles 5 to 11) laid down initial provisions of citizenship at the commencement of the Constitution (26 January 1950) and empowered Parliament to regulate future citizenship laws. 📘 Reference Source: India Year Book – Ministry of Information & Broadcasting 📜 Constitutional Provisions: Articles 5 to 11 Explained Article 5 – Citizenship at the Commencement of the Constitution A person was deemed a citizen of India if he/she: Had domicile in India, and Was born in India, or Had either parent born in India, or Had ordinarily resided in India for 5 years immediately before 26 Jan 1950 📌 Key UPSC Angle : Domi...