Article 14: Right to Equality Explained – 10 Key Points for UPSC & Students

#1 Guarantees Equality Before Law – No special privileges; all persons are equal in the eyes of law.

#2 Ensures Equal Protection of Laws – The State must treat individuals in similar situations equally.

#3 Applies to “Persons” – Includes citizens, foreigners, and legal persons (companies, firms).

#4 Prohibits Arbitrary State Action – Any law or action must be reasonable, just, and non-arbitrary.

#5 Allows Reasonable Classification – Unequal treatment is allowed if the classification is reasonable and not arbitrary.

#6 Two Tests of Classification – (a) Intelligible Differentia and (b) Rational Nexus with the objective.

#7 Basis of Judicial Review – Courts invalidate laws/actions violating equality principles.

#8 Introduces Concept of Arbitrariness (Maneka Gandhi Case) – Article 14 prohibits arbitrary or excessive laws.

#9 Forms Part of Golden Triangle (Arts 14, 19, 21) – Protects core rights of life, liberty, and equality.

#10 Foundation of Social Justice – Promotes fairness, non-discrimination, and rule of law in governance.