What is Article 14?
Historical Background
Key Points
10 points- 1.
Equality before the law: No person shall be discriminated against on the basis of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
- 2.
Equal protection of the laws: The state shall not deny to any person equality before the law or the equal protection of the laws within the territory of India.
- 3.
Reasonable classification: The state can make reasonable classifications for the purpose of legislation, provided that such classifications are based on intelligible differentia and have a rational nexus to the object sought to be achieved.
- 4.
Prohibition of arbitrary action: Article 14 prohibits arbitrary action by the state, ensuring that all actions are based on reason and fairness.
- 5.
Applicability: Article 14 applies to all persons, whether citizens or non-citizens.
- 6.
Judicial review: The courts have the power to review laws and executive actions to ensure that they are not violative of Article 14.
- 7.
Doctrine of proportionality: The courts apply the doctrine of proportionality to determine whether a restriction on equality is reasonable.
- 8.
Article 14 is not absolute: It is subject to reasonable restrictions in the interest of the public order, morality, and health.
- 9.
It is a basic feature of the Constitution and cannot be amended in a way that destroys its essence.
- 10.
It promotes social justice and equality of opportunity.
Visual Insights
Article 14: Equality Before Law
Mind map illustrating the key aspects of Article 14, including its scope, limitations, and relationship with other fundamental rights.
Article 14: Equality Before Law
- ●Core Principles
- ●Reasonable Classification
- ●Exceptions
- ●Judicial Interpretations
Article 14 vs. Article 15 vs. Article 16
Comparison of Article 14 (Equality before law), Article 15 (Prohibition of discrimination), and Article 16 (Equality of opportunity in public employment).
| Feature | Article 14 | Article 15 | Article 16 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scope | Equality before law and equal protection of laws for all persons (citizens and non-citizens) | Prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth (only for citizens) | Equality of opportunity in public employment (only for citizens) |
| Focus | General equality | Specific grounds of discrimination | Employment opportunities |
| Exceptions | Reasonable classification | Special provisions for women, children, and socially and educationally backward classes | Reservations for backward classes, SCs, and STs |
Recent Developments
5 developmentsJudicial interpretations of Article 14 in various cases, including those related to reservations, affirmative action, and discrimination.
Challenges to laws and policies on the ground of violation of Article 14.
Emphasis on substantive equality and addressing historical inequalities.
Use of Article 14 to promote gender equality and protect the rights of marginalized groups.
Application of Article 14 in the context of economic and social rights.