Q. What is meant by the term ‘constitutional morality’? How does one uphold constitutional morality?
The concept of constitutional morality as explained by Dr. Ambedkar means a harmonious interaction between the governing and the governed. It has the following elements: –
1. Respecting the constitution and all forms of authorities deriving their command from it
2. Availability of right to free speech for the citizens to criticise the government
3. To hold the government officials accountable for their actions
4. The obligation of the mandated authority and public officials to act well within the sanctioned charge given by them to the constitution
5. People contesting for political power and their opposition should have reverence for the constitution
Ways to uphold constitutional morality can be as follows: –
1. To follow the basic structure of the constitution
2. To inculcate training among the public servants for the basic values of the constitution
3. To generate awareness among the citizens about the constitution
4. To question the government and its policies without fear of favour
5. The government also needs to follow the basic pirnciples that guide its functioning
The Supreme Court of India has constantly asked the government and citizens to follow the principles of constitutional morality. E.g., in the Delhi Government Vs the Lt. Governor the SC asked the LG as well as the CM to uphold constitutional morality.
To conclude, constitution is the highest law of the land. Morality is the bedrock of ethical conduct. Constitutional morality thus ensures a lawful as well as ethical society.
