The Fundamental Rights of Indian citizens are enshrined in Part III of the Indian Constitution (Articles 12 to 35). These rights are considered essential for the development of the individual and the protection of their dignity and freedom. They ensure equality, freedom, and justice for every citizen and can be enforced by the courts if violated.
1. Right to Equality (Articles 14–18)
The Right to Equality guarantees that all citizens are treated equally before the law.
- Article 14: Equality before the law – No person shall be denied equality before the law.
- Article 15: Prohibition of discrimination – No discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
- Article 16: Equality of opportunity in matters of public employment.
- Article 17: Abolition of untouchability – Untouchability is abolished and its practice is forbidden.
- Article 18: Abolition of titles – No titles, except military or academic titles, can be conferred by the state.
2. Right to Freedom (Articles 19–22)
The Right to Freedom includes a range of freedoms necessary for an individual to lead a life of dignity.
- Article 19: Protection of six fundamental freedoms – These include the right to:
- Speech and expression
- Assemble peacefully without arms
- Form associations or unions
- Move freely throughout the territory of India
- Reside and settle in any part of India
- Practice any profession, or carry on any occupation, trade, or business.
- Article 20: Protection in respect of conviction for offenses – Protection against double jeopardy (being tried for the same offense twice) and self-incrimination.
- Article 21: Protection of life and personal liberty – No person shall be deprived of their life or personal liberty except according to the procedure established by law.
- Article 22: Protection against arrest and detention in certain cases – Prevents arbitrary arrest and detention without a lawful reason.
3. Right against Exploitation (Articles 23–24)
These rights protect individuals from exploitation.
- Article 23: Prohibition of human trafficking and forced labor – No person shall be forced into bonded labor or human trafficking.
- Article 24: Prohibition of child labor – No child under the age of 14 years shall be employed in factories, mines, or any hazardous work.
4. Right to Freedom of Religion (Articles 25–28)
This right guarantees freedom of conscience and the right to practice, profess, and propagate religion.
- Article 25: Freedom of conscience and free profession, practice, and propagation of religion.
- Article 26: Freedom to manage religious affairs – Every religious denomination has the right to establish and maintain institutions for religious and charitable purposes.
- Article 27: Freedom from taxes for promoting any religion – No person can be compelled to pay taxes for the promotion of any particular religion.
- Article 28: Freedom from religious instruction in educational institutions.
5. Cultural and Educational Rights (Articles 29–30)
These rights protect the interests of minorities in terms of culture, language, and education.
- Article 29: Protection of interests of minorities – Any section of the citizens residing in India with a distinct language, script, or culture has the right to conserve it.
- Article 30: Right of minorities to establish educational institutions – Religious or linguistic minorities have the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.
6. Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32)
The Right to Constitutional Remedies is considered the heart and soul of the Constitution. It allows individuals to approach the Supreme Court directly if any of their Fundamental Rights are violated.
- Article 32: Provides the right to move the Supreme Court for the enforcement of fundamental rights. The Court can issue orders, writs, and directions to protect these rights.