UPSC Prelims 2004 Q63: Indian Polity – Fundamental Rights
Match List I (Articles of the Constitution of India) with List II (Provision) and select the
correct answer using the codes given below the lists:
List I
(A) Article 14
(B) Article 15
(C) Article 16
(D) Article 17
List II
1. The State shall not discriminate against any citizen on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex,
place of birth or any of them
2. The State shall not deny to any person equality before the law or the equal protection of laws
within the territory of India
3. “Untouchability” is abolished and its practice in any form is forbidden
4. There shall be equality of opportunity for all citizens in matters relating to employment or
appointment to any office under the State
Codes:
A B C D
- (a) 2 4 1 3
- (b) 3 1 4 2
- (c) 2 1 4 3
- (d) 3 4 1 2
Answer: (c) 2 1 4 3
Explanation
Articles 14 to 17 of the Constitution
| Article | Provision |
|---|---|
| A. Article 14 | Equality before law and equal protection of laws (2) |
| B. Article 15 | No discrimination on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth (1) |
| C. Article 16 | Equality of opportunity in public employment (4) |
| D. Article 17 | Abolition of untouchability (3) |
The correct matching is A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3.
Answer: (c) 2 1 4 3.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Article 15 is non-discrimination, not equality of opportunity.
- (b) Incorrect. Article 14 is not about untouchability.
- (c) CORRECT. A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3 matches all four.
- (d) Incorrect. Article 14 is not about untouchability.
Key point
Articles 14-18: right to equality; 19-22: freedom; 23-24: exploitation.
Remember
Article 17 abolishes untouchability.
Common mistakes
- Mixing Article 15 with Article 16.
- Placing untouchability under Article 15.
- Forgetting that Article 14 covers both law and protection.
Exam tip
14 law, 15 discrimination, 16 jobs, 17 untouchability, 18 titles.
Sources
- Constitution of India — Articles 14 to 18
- M. Laxmikanth — Indian Polity (Fundamental Rights)