Fraternity
Topic: Preamble and the Philosophy of the Constitution · NCERT: Class 7, Ch 10 "The Constitution of India: An Introduction"; Class 11, Ch 10 "The Philosophy of the Constitution"
Meaning
Fraternity is a feeling of brotherhood among all Indians. We should behave like one family, and no one should treat a fellow citizen as inferior. The Preamble says fraternity assures two things:
- the dignity of the individual, supported by Arts. 17, 21 and 23 and the directives in Arts. 39(e)-(f) and 42;
- the unity and integrity of the Nation. The 42nd Amendment (1976) added the word "integrity", which covers both territorial unity and unity of feeling.
Single citizenship and the Fundamental Duties in Art. 51A also support it. Ambedkar saw fraternity as the value that makes liberty and equality work, and he called castes "anti-national".
Example
Art. 17 abolishes untouchability. Art. 51A(e) asks every citizen to promote common brotherhood and to respect the dignity of women.
Don't confuse with
- Forced unity: fraternity means real brotherhood among people who are different. It does not mean wiping out differences.