Fundamental Rights in the Indian Constitution
1. Right to Equality (Articles 14–18)
- Article 14: Equality before law and equal protection of laws.
- Article 15: Prohibition of discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
- Article 16: Equality of opportunity in public employment.
- Article 17: Abolition of untouchability.
- Article 18: Abolition of titles (except military or academic distinctions).
2. Right to Freedom (Articles 19–22)
- Article 19: Freedom of speech and expression, assembly, association, movement, residence, and profession.
- Article 20: Protection in respect of conviction for offences (no double jeopardy, ex post facto law).
- Article 21: Protection of life and personal liberty.
- Article 21A: Right to education (free & compulsory education for 6–14 years).
- Article 22: Protection against arrest and detention in certain cases.
3. Right Against Exploitation (Articles 23–24)
- Article 23: Prohibits human trafficking and forced labour.
- Article 24: Prohibits child labour in hazardous conditions (below 14 years).
4. Right to Freedom of Religion (Articles 25–28)
- Article 25: Freedom of conscience and free profession, practice and propagation of religion.
- Article 26: Freedom to manage religious affairs.
- Article 27: Freedom from taxation for promotion of any religion.
- Article 28: Freedom from attending religious instruction in certain educational institutions.
5. Cultural and Educational Rights (Articles 29–30)
- Article 29: Protection of interests of minorities.
- Article 30: Right of minorities to establish and administer educational institutions.
6. Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32)
- Article 32: Right to move the Supreme Court to enforce Fundamental Rights (Dr. B.R. Ambedkar called it the “heart and soul” of the Constitution).
- Provides for writs: Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Prohibition, Certiorari, and Quo Warranto.