Fundamental Rights

The Right to Equality is enshrined in Articles 14-18 of the Indian Constitution. It includes equality before the law, prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth, equality of opportunity in matters of public employment, abolition of untouchability and abolition of titles.

The Right to Freedom includes six fundamental freedoms: freedom of speech and expression, freedom of assembly, freedom of association, freedom of movement, freedom of residence, and freedom of profession. These rights are subject to reasonable restrictions that may be imposed by the State.

The Right Against Exploitation prohibits trafficking in human beings, forced labor (begar), and employment of children below 14 years in factories, mines, and other hazardous occupations.

The Right to Freedom of Religion guarantees freedom of conscience and free profession, practice and propagation of religion, freedom to manage religious affairs, freedom from taxation for promotion of any religion, and freedom from religious instruction in certain educational institutions.

Cultural and Educational Rights protect the rights of minorities to conserve their language, script, and culture, and establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.

The Right to Constitutional Remedies empowers citizens to approach the Supreme Court directly for the enforcement of their Fundamental Rights. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar called it 'the heart and soul of the Constitution'.

The Right to Education was added to the Constitution through the 86th Amendment Act, 2002. It makes education a fundamental right for all children between 6-14 years of age.