Question

Discuss any four rights conferred under the Right to Equality (Articles 14-18) in the Constitution of India.

Answer 1

Article 14 of the Indian Constitution lays down the principle of the Right to Equality in Indian society. Some of the other rights guaranteed under Articles 14 to 18 include the following:

1. Equality Before Law (Article 14): It ensures that all individuals are equal before the law, forbidding discrimination by the state and guaranteeing uniform application of laws to every citizen.
2. Prohibition of Discrimination (Article 15): This article bars the state from discriminating against citizens on the basis of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. At the same time, it permits the state to make special provisions for women, children, and socially and educationally backward sections.
3. Equality of Opportunity in Public Employment (Article 16): It ensures equal opportunity for all citizens in matters of public employment and appointments under the state, while allowing the state to provide reservations for backward classes. 
4. Abolition of Untouchability (Article 17): This article declares the practice of “untouchability” in any form to be unconstitutional and punishable by law. Its objective is to eradicate caste-based discrimination from Indian society.