An activist working among the poor says that the poor don’t need Fundamental Rights. What they need are Directive Principles to be made legally binding. Do you agree with this? Give your reasons.

No, I don’t agree with this statement. Fundamental rights are the most crucial rights for the people and it cannot be denied to any section of the society including the poor section as well. While directive principles implementation is required to improve the conditions of the poor but fundamental rights ensures universal dignity to every citizen of its country and creates equality among people. The fundamental rights also ensure equality in employment for the poor people and equally pay of wages. In the practical light then the most immediate requirement of the poor people is food, clothing and shelter. The activist is partly correct saying that the poor don’t need Fundamental Rights.

Directive principles contain several non-justifiable rights like the Right to Adequate livelihood. Equal pay for equal work for both men and women, rights against Economic Exploitation which if made justifiable can help in improving the economic conditions of the poor. In rural areas is bound to have positive effects on the conditions of the poor. However, the fundamental rights are important which guarantees the right to life, right to employment and right against exploitation.