Which Article of the Indian Constitution guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Correct Answer
Article 14
Explanation
Article 14 of the Indian Constitution ensures that the State shall not deny any person within the territory of India equality before the law or the equal protection of the laws. This article is the foundation of the 'Right to Equality' in the Indian Constitution.
Key Points
Equality before the law: This means that the law of the land applies equally to every person, whether they are rich or poor, an official or a common citizen. It is a negative concept because it signifies the absence of any special privileges.
Equal protection of the laws: This means that the law should treat individuals in similar circumstances equally. This is a positive concept.
Additional Facts
This right is available to both citizens and non-citizens (foreign nationals).
Part III of the Constitution (Articles 12 to 35) deals with Fundamental Rights, within which Articles 14–18 provide the Right to Equality.
Important Questions
Question: What is Article 32 known as?
Answer: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar called it the "Heart and Soul of the Constitution" because it provides the right to constitutional remedies for the enforcement of fundamental rights.
Question: The idea of 'Equality before the law' is inspired by the constitution of which country?
Answer: The British Constitution.