Monday, 25 November 2024

Supreme Court: Socialism Means Commitment To Be A Welfare State; 'Socialist' In Preamble Doesn't Mandate Any Specific Economic Policy

 Similarly, the word 'socialism', in the Indian context should not be interpreted as restricting the economic policies of an elected government of the people's choice at a given time. Neither the Constitution nor the Preamble mandates a specific economic policy or structure, whether left or right. Rather, 'socialist' denotes the State's commitment to be a welfare State and its commitment to ensuring equality of opportunity. India has  consistently embraced a mixed economy model, where the private sector has flourished, expanded, and grown over the years, contributing significantly to the upliftment of marginalized and underprivileged sections in different ways. In the Indian framework, socialism embodies the principle of economic and social justice, wherein the State ensures that no citizen is disadvantaged due to economic or social circumstances. The word ‘socialism’ reflects the goal of economic and social upliftment and does not restrict private entrepreneurship and the right to business and trade, a fundamental right under Article 19(1)(g).{Para 5}.

Reportable

IN THE SUPREME COURT OF INDIA

CIVIL ORIGINAL JURISDICTION

Writ Petition (Civil) No 645 of 2020

Dr Balram Singh and Others Vs Union of India and Another.

Citation: 2024 INSC 893.

Dated: November 25, 2024.

Read full Judgment here: Click here.

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