Rights Vs Responsibilities A Moral Conflict

The preamble to the constitution of India talks about the right and duties of a citizen. We often hear about them in the global and National context but the value of certain human rights seems self evident,the right of people not to be tortured or abused, freedom of speech ,right to live peacefully etc.But what happens where perceived rights conflicts with one another?

On a closer look ,we realise that others rights are our responsibility. But the question which arises out of the conflict is that if human rights are to equip people that they need to live with security and dignity then is the obsession with these rights also creating responsible citizens?

There are lonely voices like Anna Hazare who take them the responsibility to fight for cause and not count the cost. In the modern world , many people lead a more responsible life? It is needless to say that people are the ones who creates a nation and they form the treasury of human resource. A law biding and peace loving Citizen who contributes to the economy , socio political and cultural is an asset to the country.

To be a good citizen one needs to follow the law and adhere to the regulations that govern one's conduct in society. A productive citizen must engage towards the fellow underprivileged members of the community. A good citizen must take part in programmes like Swach Bharat and keep his country clean as it is not only the responsibility of the people to live in clean environment but also a right of the people.

The most important role that a critic can play in creating a nation by excercising his right to vote and choosing his own government. It is needless to say that voting is not just a right but a responsibility that every citizen has in helping to create a better nation for themselves.

The conflict of rights and responsibility is as old as hills but the concept of treating other's right as our responsibility is progressive and forward looking. It is rightly said that a good citizen is not only the one who is fully aware of his rights but also understands his responsibilities in serving the nation for a greater cause. Holmes said, "Your freedom to move your hand ends where my nose begins."