What is Equality Before Law?
Historical Background
Key Points
8 points- 1.
Article 14 guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws within the territory of India.
- 2.
It prohibits discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
- 3.
The State shall not deny to any person equality before the law or the equal protection of the laws within the territory of India.
- 4.
Reasonable classification is permitted, meaning the law can treat different groups differently if there is a rational basis for doing so.
- 5.
Exceptions exist for certain individuals, such as the President and Governors, who have immunity from legal proceedings.
Recent Real-World Examples
2 examplesIllustrated in 2 real-world examples from Feb 2026 to Mar 2026
Source Topic
Addressing Systemic Gender Injustice in India's Judicial System
Social IssuesUPSC Relevance
Frequently Asked Questions
121. What is Equality Before Law and what is its constitutional basis?
Equality Before Law, as defined in Article 14 of the Indian Constitution, means that all citizens are equally protected by the laws of the country. It's rooted in the concept of Rule of Law, aiming to prevent arbitrary state action. Article 14 guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws within the territory of India.
Exam Tip
Remember Article 14 is the core article for Equality Before Law. Link it to the Rule of Law concept.
2. How does Equality Before Law work in practice?
In practice, Equality Before Law means that laws should be applied equally to all citizens, regardless of their status or position. However, reasonable classification is permitted, allowing the law to treat different groups differently if there's a rational basis. Exceptions exist for certain individuals like the President and Governors.
