Article 15 of the Indian Constitution is an important provision that deals with the right to equality and prohibits discrimination on the grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. In this post, we will explore the various aspects of Article 15 and understand its significance in ensuring equality and justice for all citizens.
Article 15 of the Indian Constitution is a crucial component of the Fundamental Rights enshrined in the Constitution. It guarantees every citizen the right to equality before the law and prohibits discrimination based on certain specified grounds. Let’s take a closer look at what the article entails:
Article 15(1) states that the State shall not discriminate against any citizen on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex, place of birth, or any of them. This clause ensures that every individual is treated equally irrespective of their background.
Article 15(2) goes a step further and prohibits any person or group from imposing any disability, liability, or restriction on an individual based on the grounds mentioned in Article 15(1). This clause aims to prevent discrimination by private individuals or groups, which can be just as harmful as discrimination by the State.
Article 15(3) empowers the State to make special provisions for women and children and for the advancement of socially and educationally backward classes or Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. This clause recognizes that certain groups face historical disadvantages and need additional support to ensure their progress.
Article 15(4) allows the State to reserve seats for any backward class of citizens in educational institutions, including private institutions, whether aided or unaided by the State. This clause aims to promote social justice and affirmative action to ensure that every citizen has equal opportunities.
In conclusion, Article 15 of the Indian Constitution is a crucial provision that seeks to ensure equality and justice for all citizens. It prohibits discrimination based on certain specified grounds and empowers the State to take affirmative action to support marginalized and disadvantaged groups. By upholding the principles of equality and social justice, Article 15 plays a significant role in building a fair and inclusive society.