The fundamental rights in the Indian Constitution are outlined in Part III (Articles 12 to 35). These rights are considered essential for the protection and well-being of individuals in a democratic society.
- Article 12: Definition of the State
- Article 13: Laws inconsistent with or in derogation of the fundamental rights
- Article 14: Right to equality
- Article 15: Prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth
- Article 16: Equality of opportunity in matters of public employment
- Article 17: Abolition of untouchability
- Article 18: Abolition of titles
- Article 19: Protection of certain rights regarding freedom of speech, etc.
- Article 20: Protection in respect of conviction for offenses
- Article 21: Protection of life and personal liberty
- Article 21A: Right to education
- Article 22: Protection against arrest and detention in certain cases
- Article 23: Prohibition of traffic in human beings and forced labor
- Article 24: Prohibition of employment of children in factories, etc.
- Article 25: Freedom of conscience and free profession, practice, and propagation of religion
- Article 26: Freedom to manage religious affairs
- Article 27: Freedom as to payment of taxes for promotion of any particular religion
- Article 28: Freedom as to attendance at religious instruction or religious worship in certain educational institutions
- Article 29: Protection of interests of minorities
- Article 30: Right of minorities to establish and administer educational institutions
- Article 31: Repealed (Right to Property – Deleted by the 44th Amendment Act, 1978)
- Article 32: Remedies for enforcement of rights conferred by this Part
- Article 33: Power of Parliament to modify the rights conferred by this Part in their application to Forces, etc.
- Article 34: Restriction on rights conferred by this Part while martial law is in force in any area
- Article 35: Legislation to give effect to the provisions of this Part and other provisions relating to the fundamental rights.
It’s important to note that Article 32 is often regarded as the “heart and soul” of the fundamental rights as it provides for the right to constitutional remedies, allowing individuals to directly approach the Supreme Court for the enforcement of their fundamental rights. Additionally, some amendments have been made to certain articles over the years, reflecting changes and developments in constitutional law.
