Abolition of Titles - Article 18

The Indian Constitution has abolished the system of titles and honours conferred by the state. Article 18 of the Constitution specifically deals with the abolition of titles.

Article 18 - Abolition of Titles

The article states that no citizen of India shall accept any title from any foreign state. It also prohibits any person holding any office of profit or trust under the state from accepting any title from any foreign state without the consent of the President.

The article further states that no citizen of India shall accept any title, except military or academic distinctions, from the Indian state. The state is also prohibited from conferring any titles, except military or academic distinctions, on any citizen of India.

Reasons for Abolition of Titles

The abolition of titles was a significant step towards creating an egalitarian society. The British colonial rulers had created a system of honours and titles to reward loyalty and service to the British Empire. After independence, the Indian leaders felt that this system was a relic of colonialism and had no place in a democratic and independent India.

The system of titles was also seen as a symbol of social inequality. It perpetuated the idea of hierarchy and reinforced the idea of social superiority of certain classes. By abolishing titles, the Indian Constitution sought to create a society where all citizens were equal and had equal opportunities.

Conclusion

Article 18 of the Indian Constitution is an important provision that reflects the commitment of the Indian leaders towards creating a democratic and egalitarian society. The abolition of titles is a significant step towards achieving this goal. Today, India is a country where titles and honours are no longer used to confer social status or privilege.