A prominent thinker in Indian political and social philosophy, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya introduced the concept of ‘Integral Humanism’, a philosophy which is not just an alternative model for political systems, but a holistic approach that seeks to balance every aspect of human life. His views on Fundamental Rights were an extension of this holistic approach that emphasised the interconnectedness between an individual, society, and the nation.
In today’s context, Fundamental Rights are understood to include life, liberty, equality, education, and health. In Upadhyaya’s view, health is not just a matter of individual well-being but a critical component of a developed society and nation. He believed that the right to health is fundamentally tied to the relationship between an individual and society, and it can only be fully realised when viewed in the context of collective welfare.
Right to Health
The concept of Integral Humanism, as envisioned by Upadhyaya for promotes balance and harmony of an individual not just within his family, society and nation but also with the Mother Nature. In other words, he advocated that there must exist an integration between an individual and the collective, people and society so that a proper balance can be maintained between the two. In other words, the rights and responsibilities of an individual should not be limited to his/ her personal interests but be aligned with the broader interests of society and nation. In the context of health, he believed that an individual’s health is not merely his personal concern but the collective responsibility of society and the nation.
Integral Humanism points out the deep connection between an individual, society, and the environment. A society can be healthy only when everyone has access to basic healthcare resources, and the benefits of health reach not just a few individuals, but the entire community and nation. Upadhyaya for repeatedly emphasised that even the most vulnerable sections of society should have equal access to healthcare services, and it is the duty of the State to ensure that.
Fundamental Rights of importance
The Constitution of India enshrines several Fundamental Rights prominently including the Right to Life and Liberty. However, Upadhyaya’s perspective expanded the definition of these rights. He argued that the Right to Life is incomplete without ensuring an opportunity to lead a healthy life. Therefore, healthcare should be regarded as an essential part of the Right to Life.
Upadhyaya believed that an individual’s physical and mental well-being is a societal asset, and hence preserving it is a collective responsibility of all. If any part of society becomes ill or weak, it will impact the productivity and progress of the entire community. So, healthcare services must reach each section of society and also be recognised as a fundamental right.
Health as a collective responsibility of society
In Upadhyaya’s philosophy, health is not limited to medical services; it is a part of a broader vision that includes nutrition, hygiene, and environmental purity. He believed that the progress of a nation is not solely determined by economic growth but by the physical and mental well-being of each and every individual in society. Therefore, relying solely on medical services is not enough to ensure healthy living. Society must also focus on hygiene, nutrition, and environmental protection. This viewpoint is as relevant today as it was back then since today, public health is increasingly seen as being closely linked to social and environmental factors.
Integral Humanism and holistic development
Upadhyaya’s Integral Humanism envisions a social structure where everyone has equal opportunities, with equality extending beyond economic and political rights to encompass Fundamental Rights like health, education, and social justice. He stressed that true progress for society and the nation are possible only when each individual is healthy.
He saw health as a Fundamental Right, not just a service. It is the collective responsibility of society, the Government, and individuals to build the necessary infrastructure for health and ensure it reaches each and every corner of society. Upadhyaya’s Integral Humanism and his views on fundamental rights are quite relevant today. As he said, the Right to Health can only be secured when society and the government work together to ensure equal access to healthcare services for every citizen. His approach, this, provides a crucial guidance towards efforts to protect and promote health rights.
