Society is a collective of individuals, each serving as a unit within it. As members or units of society, individuals are expected to adhere to certain norms and obligations, which are commonly referred to as duties. These are essential for promoting the overall welfare of society and are called upon by societal expectations. The obligations of society are to be observed by individuals as they play their part within the state.
Duties and rights are intertwined aspects of this social contract. They represent two sides of the same coin, conditions seen from different perspectives. The rights one enjoys are often mirrored by corresponding duties incumbent on others, and vice versa. Without duties, rights lose their significance, and duties, without corresponding rights, become fruitless. It’s a cardinal principle that the enjoyment of rights comes with the responsibility of fulfilling one’s duties.
The state, as the custodian of societal order, requires its citizens to uphold certain duties alongside their rights. Failure to do so can lead to punitive measures. Individuals bear both moral and legal duties.
Moral Duties
Moral duties are those obligations rooted in moral principles but aren’t legally binding. These encompass responsibilities such as caring for family, helping the less fortunate, and contributing to the welfare of one’s community, province, and even the world at large. In times of external threats or crises, there is a moral duty to stand in defense of one’s country, as was evident during incidents like China’s aggression in 1962 and Pakistan’s actions in 1965 and 1971.
Legal Duties
Legal duties, on the other hand, differ markedly from moral duties. They are obligations mandated by law, and individuals are legally obligated to fulfill them. Failure to do so can result in legal consequences imposed by the state. Legal duties include obeying the constitution, adhering to laws and regulations, paying taxes honestly, and remaining loyal to one’s country. Traitors who betray their nation’s trust are subject to legal action and punishment.
In times of national emergencies, individuals have a legal duty to join the armed forces if called upon, contributing their utmost to defend the country. Legal duties are not matters of personal conscience; they are obligations prescribed by the state and must be upheld by its citizens.