Rights and Duties (VSAQs)

Political Science-1 | 6. Rights and Duties – VSAQs:
Welcome to VSAQs in Chapter 6: Rights and Duties. This page features the most significant FAQs for Very Short Answer Questions. Answers are given in simple English and follow the exam format. This helps you focus on essential points and aim for top marks in your final exams.


VSAQ-1: Classify Rights

Civil and Political Rights:

These rights are essential for individual freedom and participation in society. Think of them as the rules that allow you to live freely and take part in the decisions that affect your life. Examples include the right to freedom of speech—like being able to express your thoughts openly, and the right to vote, which lets you choose who represents you in the government.

Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights:

These rights are about ensuring everyone has a good quality of life. They include the right to education, which ensures you can go to school and learn; the right to healthcare, so you can access medical services when needed; and the right to work, meaning everyone should have a fair chance to earn a living and support themselves and their families.


VSAQ-2: Natural Rights

Natural rights are those you’re born with, according to philosopher John Locke. These rights include the right to life, meaning everyone deserves to live safely; the right to liberty, which means you should be free to make your own choices; and the right to property, allowing you to own things. These rights are considered universal, meaning they apply to everyone, everywhere, and should be protected by society and the government.


VSAQ-3: Moral Rights

Moral rights are based on the shared beliefs and values of society. These aren’t necessarily written down in laws but are widely accepted as important. For instance, the idea that everyone deserves respect or that we should help those in need are examples of moral rights. Even though they aren’t legally enforced, they are powerful because they reflect the ethics and morals that most people agree on.


VSAQ-4: What are Political Rights?

Political rights are essential for participating in how your country is run. They include the right to vote, so you can have a say in who leads your country; the right to run for office, allowing you to be a leader or representative; and the freedom to express your political views. These rights enable you to take part in democracy, making sure that everyone’s voice can be heard in the government.


VSAQ-5: Classification of Duties

Legal Duties:

These are the things you must do because the law says so. For example, paying taxes helps fund public services like schools and roads, and following traffic laws keeps everyone safe on the road.

Moral Duties:

These are the responsibilities that aren’t enforced by law but are important for being a good person. For instance, helping someone in need or being honest are moral duties. They are guided by what is right or wrong, based on shared values.


VSAQ-6: Write any four political rights

  • Right to Vote: This allows you to choose who leads your country and makes decisions on your behalf.
  • Right to Run for Public Office: If you want to lead or represent your community, this right lets you stand for election.
  • Freedom of Speech: You can express your thoughts and opinions without fear of punishment.
  • Right to Petition: You can ask the government to make changes or address issues you care about.

VSAQ-7: Moral Duties

Moral duties are about doing what’s right based on ethical principles. For example, you might feel a duty to help a neighbor who is sick, even though no law says you have to. These duties are driven by compassion and a sense of responsibility to others, not by legal obligations.


VSAQ-8: National Human Rights Commission

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is an organization in India, set up under the Protection of Human Rights Act of 1993. Its main goal is to protect and promote human rights across the country. Think of the NHRC as a watchdog that keeps an eye out for any violations of human rights—like when someone is treated unfairly or their dignity is at risk. The NHRC works to make sure everyone is treated with justice and respect, no matter who they are.


VSAQ-9: Two Fundamental Rights Mentioned in the Indian Constitution

Right to Equality:

This is a fundamental right that makes sure everyone in India is treated equally under the law. It means no one can be treated differently or discriminated against because of their religion, race, caste, gender, or where they were born.

Right to Freedom:

This right gives Indian citizens a variety of freedoms, like the freedom of speech and expression—which means you can say what you think, freedom of assembly—which allows you to gather peacefully with others, and freedom of movement—meaning you can travel anywhere in India. It also includes the freedom to choose your profession.


VSAQ-10: Point Out Any Three Civil Rights

Right to Life and Personal Liberty:

This civil right protects your life and personal freedom, ensuring that you can’t be taken away or punished unfairly without following the proper legal process. For example, the government can’t imprison someone without a fair trial.

Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression:

This right allows you to express your thoughts and opinions freely. For instance, you can write an article or speak out in public without fear of censorship or punishment by the government.

Right to Privacy:

This right means you have the freedom from unwanted intrusions into your personal life. For example, no one can enter your home or look through your personal information without your permission, ensuring your private life remains private.


VSAQ-11: Write Some Important Economic Rights

Right to Property:

This economic right allows you to own, buy, and sell property. For example, you can own a house or land, and it’s protected by law so no one can take it from you without a valid reason.

Right to Employment:

This right gives you the opportunity to find a job and work in the profession of your choice. For instance, whether you want to be a teacher, doctor, or engineer, this right supports your ability to pursue your career goals and earn a living.

Right to Education:

Education is considered an economic right because it helps improve your skills and opens up opportunities for better jobs. For example, getting an education can lead to a higher-paying job, which improves your economic situation.


VSAQ-12: Define Rights

Rights are the claims or entitlements that individuals have, which are recognized by society and protected by the state. These rights are like the rules that make sure you can live freely and develop your abilities. For example, the right to education allows you to go to school and learn, while the right to free speech lets you express your opinions. Rights are there to ensure you can exercise your freedoms without being unfairly restricted or controlled.