Provision:
Promotion of Social Justice and Eradication of Social Evils
The State shall:
- Promote social justice and ensure the welfare of the people.
- Eradicate social evils such as the dowry system, gambling, and drug abuse.
- Prevent prostitution, consumption of intoxicants (except for medical purposes), and moral degradation.
- Ensure equitable distribution of wealth and opportunities.
- Make arrangements for inexpensive and expeditious justice.
- Decentralise government administration for broader participation in decision-making.
Meaning:
Article 37 directs the State to build a just, moral, and inclusive society. It outlines social responsibilities including eliminating exploitative practices, ensuring equal economic opportunities, and upholding public morality.
It also emphasises reforms in the justice system and governance, so that all citizens—regardless of class or background—can access their rights fairly and efficiently.
Application:
When the government enacts laws to curb child marriage, regulate dowries, combat drug addiction, or crack down on human trafficking, it is acting under Article 37.
Welfare programmes, fair taxation policies, decentralisation through local governments, and reforms for fast-track courts also reflect this article’s principles. Neglecting social inequalities or allowing exploitation to persist runs contrary to these constitutional goals.
