Since you have provided a case title "Article 46 in Constitution of India" and a date "26 January 1950" but no actual case content, I will provide a general explanation of Article 46 of the Indian Constitution and its typical application in legal contexts. This is not a summary of a specific case, but rather an explanation of the Article itself.
Short Summary
Article 46 of the Indian Constitution is a Directive Principle of State Policy that mandates the State to promote with special care the educational and economic interests of the weaker sections of the people, and, in particular, of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes, and to protect them from social injustice and all forms of exploitation. It is not directly enforceable by courts but serves as a guiding principle for the government in formulating policies and laws.
Facts
Article 46 is part of Part IV of the Constitution, which contains the Directive Principles of State Policy. These principles are fundamental in the governance of the country, but are not justiciable (i.e., cannot be directly enforced by courts). The historical context involves addressing the socio-economic disparities and historical injustices faced by Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) and other weaker sections of society.
Issues
The primary issue related to Article 46 is the extent to which the State has fulfilled its obligation to promote the educational and economic interests of SCs, STs, and other weaker sections, and to protect them from social injustice and exploitation. Legal challenges often arise when policies aimed at fulfilling Article 46 are alleged to be discriminatory or violate other fundamental rights.
Petitioner's Arguments
In hypothetical cases related to Article 46, petitioners (typically individuals or groups from SC/ST/weaker sections) might argue that the State has failed to adequately implement policies and programs to uplift them, leading to continued social injustice and economic hardship. They may argue that specific government actions or inactions violate the spirit and intent of Article 46.
Respondent's Arguments
The Respondent (typically the State) would argue that it has implemented various schemes and policies to promote the interests of SCs, STs, and other weaker sections. They might argue that the policies are reasonable, non-discriminatory, and aimed at achieving the goals outlined in Article 46 within the constraints of available resources and other constitutional obligations. They may also argue that the Directive Principles are not directly enforceable.
Court's Reasoning
Courts, while acknowledging the importance of Article 46, generally cannot directly enforce it. However, they consider it a relevant factor when assessing the reasonableness of legislation and government policies. The courts often emphasize the need for a balanced approach, ensuring that policies aimed at uplifting weaker sections do not unduly infringe upon the fundamental rights of other citizens. The judiciary often uses Article 46 as a tool for interpreting other constitutional provisions, especially those related to equality and social justice.
Conclusion
Article 46 is a guiding principle for the State, directing it to prioritize the welfare of weaker sections. While not directly enforceable, it influences policy-making and judicial interpretation, shaping the State's efforts to achieve social and economic justice. The Article serves as a benchmark against which the State's actions are measured in terms of their impact on the disadvantaged sections of society.
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