Article 39: Constitution of India 

Article 39: Constitution of India 

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Article 39: Certain Principles of Policy to be Followed by the State

⚖️ Bare Act Text

The State shall, in particular, direct its policy towards securing—
(a) that the citizens, men and women equally, have the right to an adequate means of livelihood;
(b) that the ownership and control of the material resources of the community are so distributed as best to subserve the common good;
(c) that the operation of the economic system does not result in the concentration of wealth and means of production to the common detriment;
(d) that there is equal pay for equal work for both men and women;
(e) that the health and strength of workers, men and women, and the tender age of children are not abused and that citizens are not forced by economic necessity to enter avocations unsuited to their age or strength;
(f) that children are given opportunities and facilities to develop in a healthy manner and in conditions of freedom and dignity and that childhood and youth are protected against exploitation and against moral and material abandonment.

📜 Footnotes

1. Clause (f) was substituted by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act.
2. Article 39 is one of the most important Directive Principles, guiding economic and social policy.
3. Clauses (b) and (c) are specifically protected under Article 31C.
4. It focuses on economic justice, gender equality, and child welfare.

🧾 Simple Explanation

Article 39 directs the State to ensure:

• Equal livelihood opportunities for men and women
• Fair distribution of resources
• Prevention of wealth concentration
• Equal pay for equal work
• Protection of workers and children

It aims to create a just and equitable economic system.

📌 Key Features

• Focus on economic justice
• Promotes gender equality
• Protects workers and children
• Prevents economic exploitation
• Core DPSP for policy-making

⚖️ Important Case Laws

1. Randhir Singh v. Union of India

• Recognized equal pay for equal work as a constitutional principle

2. M.C. Mehta v. State of Tamil Nadu

• Enforced child protection principles

3. Sanjeev Coke Manufacturing Co. v. Bharat Coking Coal Ltd.

• Upheld laws under Article 39(b) and (c)

🧠 Illustrations

• Equal wages for men and women → ✔️ In line with Article 39
• Government redistributing land → ✔️ Valid
• Child labour in hazardous industries → ❌ Violation
• Monopoly leading to wealth concentration → ❌ Against principle

📚 Practical Notes

• Article 39 is central to economic policy questions
• Basis for many labour and welfare laws
• Clauses (b) & (c) have constitutional protection via Article 31C
• Frequently used by courts to interpret Fundamental Rights
• Important for UPSC, Judiciary exams

❓ FAQs

Q. Is Article 39 enforceable?
❌ No — Directive Principle

Q. What does clause (d) ensure?
✔️ Equal pay for equal work

Q. Why are clauses (b) and (c) important?
They deal with resource distribution and wealth control

Q. Does it protect children?
✔️ Yes — against exploitation and neglect

💬 Comments / Legal Insight

Article 39 is the backbone of India’s economic justice framework.
It ensures that:

• Economic growth benefits everyone, not just a few

The Supreme Court of India has expanded these principles into enforceable rights through interpretation.

It reflects the constitutional vision:
👉 An economy based on fairness, equality, and human dignity

Article 39: Constitution of India 

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