What is Gender Equality and Discrimination (Article 14 & 15)?
Historical Background
Key Points
12 points- 1.
Article 14 states that the State shall not deny to any person equality before the law or the equal protection of the laws within the territory of India.
- 2.
Article 15(1) prohibits the State from discriminating against any citizen on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex, place of birth or any of them.
- 3.
Article 15(3) allows the State to make special provisions for women and children, even if these provisions appear discriminatory on the surface. This is called affirmative action.
- 4.
Article 15(4) allows the State to make special provisions for the advancement of any socially and educationally backward classes of citizens or for the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes.
Visual Insights
Article 14 vs. Article 15: Equality and Non-Discrimination
Comparison of Article 14 (Equality before Law) and Article 15 (Prohibition of Discrimination) in the Indian Constitution.
| Feature | Article 14 | Article 15 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Equality before the law and equal protection of the laws | Prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth |
| Beneficiaries | Applies to all persons, citizens and non-citizens | Applies to citizens only |
| Nature | General principle of equality | Specific application of equality, prohibiting discrimination |
| Exceptions | Reasonable classification is permitted | Special provisions for women and children, and socially and educationally backward classes |
| Purpose | Ensures equality in legal rights and treatment | Prevents discrimination in access to public places and opportunities |
Recent Real-World Examples
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Supreme Court to Review Sabarimala Temple Entry Case in April
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Frequently Asked Questions
121. What is Gender Equality and Discrimination (Article 14 & 15) and its constitutional basis?
Gender equality means equal rights, responsibilities, and opportunities for all genders. Discrimination is unfair treatment based on gender. The constitutional basis lies in Article 14, guaranteeing equality before the law, and Article 15, prohibiting discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
Exam Tip
Remember Articles 14 and 15 are the cornerstones for gender equality in the Indian Constitution.
2. What are the key provisions of Article 14 and 15 related to gender equality?
Key provisions include: * Article 14: Equality before the law. * Article 15(1): Prohibits discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. * Article 15(3): Allows the State to make special provisions for women and children (affirmative action). * Article 15(4): Allows the State to make special provisions for socially and educationally backward classes.
Exam Tip
Focus on the specific wording of Article 15(1) and 15(3) to understand the scope of the provision and exceptions.
