UPSC Prelims 2002 Q103: Indian Polity – Fundamental Rights
In the Indian Constitution, the Right to Equality is granted by Five Articles. They are
- (a) Article 16 to Article 20
- (b) Article 15 to Article 19
- (c) Article 14 to Article 18
- (d) Article 13 to Article 17
Answer: (c) Article 14 to Article 18
Explanation
Articles of the Right to Equality
| Article | Provision |
|---|---|
| Article 14 | Equality before law and equal protection of the laws |
| Article 15 | No discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth |
| Article 16 | Equality of opportunity in public employment |
| Articles 17 and 18 | Abolition of untouchability and of titles |
The Right to Equality is guaranteed by five Articles, 14 to 18. Article 19 begins the right to freedom, and Article 13 deals with laws inconsistent with Fundamental Rights.
Answer: (c) Article 14 to Article 18.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Articles 19 and 20 belong to the Right to Freedom.
- (b) Incorrect. Articles 15 to 19 would include Article 19, a freedom article.
- (c) CORRECT. Articles 14 to 18 are the five equality articles.
- (d) Incorrect. Article 13 is a general provision on laws.
Key point
Fundamental Rights: equality 14-18, freedom 19-22, against exploitation 23-24, religion 25-28, cultural and educational 29-30, remedies 32.
Remember
Right to Equality = Articles 14 to 18.
Common mistakes
- Starting the range from Article 13, which is not a right.
- Ending the range at Article 19, the first freedom.
- Forgetting that there are exactly five articles.
Exam tip
Five articles from 14 gives 14, 15, 16, 17, 18.
Sources
- Constitution of India — Part III
- M. Laxmikanth — Indian Polity