Vechoor
Grama Panchayat

Civic Duties and Responsibilities

Just as citizens' rights are important for the smooth functioning of a democratic system of governance and the overall development of our Panchayat and our nation, the civic duties and responsibilities entrusted to citizens are equally significant. The major duties and responsibilities prescribed by the Constitution of India are described comprehensively below.

1. Constitution of India and Fundamental Duties (Article 51A)

The Fundamental Duties were incorporated into the Constitution through the 42nd Constitutional Amendment in 1976, under Part IV-A, Article 51A. At present, there are 11 Fundamental Duties:

• Respect the Constitution and its symbols: Abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals, institutions, the National Flag, and the National Anthem.
• Uphold the ideals of the Freedom Struggle: Cherish and follow the noble ideals that inspired India's struggle for freedom.
• Protect the sovereignty and unity of the nation: Uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.
• Participate in national service: Be prepared to defend the country and render national service when required.
• Promote brotherhood and harmony: Promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood beyond religious, linguistic, and regional differences, and renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women.
• Preserve the rich cultural heritage: Value and preserve the rich heritage of India's composite culture and traditions.
• Protect the environment: Protect and improve the natural environment, including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife, and show compassion for living creatures.
• Develop scientific temper: Develop scientific temper, humanism, the spirit of inquiry, and the attitude of reform.
• Safeguard public property: Protect public property and completely renounce violence.
• Strive for excellence: Strive for excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity so that the nation may continuously rise to higher levels of achievement.
• Ensure children's education: Provide opportunities for education to children between the ages of 6 and 14 years. This is a duty of parents or guardians.

2. Local Self-Government and Democratic Responsibilities

• Participate in Grama Sabhas: Regularly attend Grama Sabha/Ward Sabha meetings where the development plans of the Panchayat are discussed and provide constructive suggestions and opinions.
• Exercise the Right to Vote: Exercise the right to vote responsibly and wisely in elections, without yielding to inducements or undue influence.
• Pay Panchayat taxes promptly: Pay Property Tax, Profession Tax, licence fees, and other applicable dues on time and contribute to the development activities of the Panchayat.
• Follow laws and regulations: Strictly comply with building rules, permits, public health regulations, and other applicable laws and regulations.

3. Social and Sanitation Responsibilities

• Waste Management and Haritha Karma Sena: Practise waste management at source, segregate non-biodegradable waste, hand it over to the Haritha Karma Sena, and refrain from dumping waste in public places.
• Maintain social harmony: Promote peace, unity, and brotherhood in society, irrespective of caste, community, or other differences.
• Protect vulnerable sections: Show care and concern for the welfare and safety of senior citizens, persons with disabilities, children, and other vulnerable sections of society.
• Conserve natural resources: Avoid polluting drinking-water sources and protect water resources, trees, and other natural resources.

“A Panchayat and a nation can progress towards true development only when citizens are aware of their rights and, at the same time, faithfully fulfil their civic duties and responsibilities.”