Right to Equality

The prohibition of discrimination on grounds as provided in Article 15 of the Constitution is a fundamental right classifiable under the Right to Equality. Article 15 states that the State shall not discriminate against any citizen on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. Let us explore why this right falls under the Right to Equality:

1. Principle of Non-discrimination:
The right to equality is a fundamental principle enshrined in the Constitution, which guarantees equal protection of laws to all citizens. Article 15 reinforces this principle by explicitly prohibiting discrimination on certain grounds. It ensures that individuals are not treated unfairly or unjustly based on their religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.

2. Scope of Article 15:
Article 15 not only prohibits discrimination by the State but also by individuals and private entities. It empowers the State to make special provisions for women and children and enables affirmative action to uplift socially and educationally backward classes. This widens the scope of the right to equality and ensures that the marginalized sections of society are protected from discrimination.

3. Fundamental Rights:
The Right to Equality, including the prohibition of discrimination, is one of the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution. Fundamental rights are essential for the protection and well-being of citizens, and they form the bedrock of a democratic society. Article 15, by prohibiting discrimination, upholds the fundamental right to equality and ensures that every citizen is treated with dignity and respect.

4. Fundamental Right Classification:
The right to equality is classified as a fundamental right under Part III of the Constitution. Part III contains a comprehensive list of fundamental rights that are essential for the protection of individual liberties and the promotion of social justice. Article 15, with its prohibition of discrimination, is an integral part of this framework and reinforces the right to equality.

In conclusion, the prohibition of discrimination on grounds as provided in Article 15 of the Constitution is a fundamental right classified under the Right to Equality. This right ensures that individuals are protected from discrimination on the basis of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth, and promotes equality and social justice in society.