Protection against economic exploitation
Also called: Article 39(e), Article 39(f) · Topic: Directive Principles and Fundamental Duties · NCERT: Class 11, Ch 2 "Rights in the Indian Constitution"
Meaning
These two Directive Principles in Article 39 protect workers and children from being misused because they are poor.
- Art. 39(e): workers' health and strength, and the young age of children, must not be abused. Poverty must not force anyone into work that does not suit their age or strength.
- Art. 39(f): children should get the chance to grow up in freedom and dignity, and be protected from exploitation. Its present wording was substituted by the 42nd Amendment, 1976.
NCERT Class 11 lists protection from economic exploitation among the "non-justiciable rights", rights that courts cannot directly enforce.
Example
A poor family sends a young child to work in a factory to earn money. Art. 39(e)-(f) ask the State to prevent exactly this through labour and child-protection laws.
Don't confuse with
- Right against exploitation (Arts. 23-24, Fundamental Rights): these can be enforced in court. Art. 39(e)-(f) are guidelines for the State that courts cannot enforce.
Related concepts
- Socialistic principles
- Social order based on justice
- Equitable distribution of material resources
- Adequate means of livelihood
- Equal pay for equal work
- Right to work, education and public assistance
- Living wage
- Workers' participation in management