Fundamental Rights of India (Articles 12-35)

1. What are the Fundamental Rights in the Indian Constitution?

Fundamental Rights, enshrined in Articles 12 to 35 of the Indian Constitution, are a set of rights that guarantee the civil liberties of all citizens. These rights protect individuals against state excesses and ensure a life of dignity, equality, and freedom.

2. How many Fundamental Rights are there in the Indian Constitution?

There are six Fundamental Rights listed in the Indian Constitution: Right to Equality (Articles 14-18), Right to Freedom (Articles 19-22), Right Against Exploitation (Articles 23-24), Right to Freedom of Religion (Articles 25-28), Cultural and Educational Rights (Articles 29-30), and Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32 in Indian Constitution).

3. Is education a Fundamental Right in India?

Yes, education is considered a Fundamental Right under Article 21A, which provides for free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14 years.

4. Can Fundamental Rights be amended or repealed?

Fundamental Rights can be amended, but the basic structure of the Constitution, including the essence of these rights, cannot be altered as per the Supreme Court’s rulings.

5. What is the significance of Article 32 in the context of Fundamental Rights?

Article 32 in Indian Constitution is known as the “heart and soul” of the Indian Constitution. It provides the right to constitutional remedies, allowing individuals to approach the Supreme Court for the enforcement of their Fundamental Rights.

6. Are Fundamental Rights absolute?

Fundamental Rights are not absolute and can be reasonably restricted under specific circumstances mentioned in the Constitution, such as public order, security of the state, decency, morality, etc.

7. What is the Right to Equality, and what does it entail?

The Right to Equality (Articles 14-18) ensures equality before the law and prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. It also includes equality of opportunity in matters of employment.

8. How do Fundamental Rights protect citizens?

Fundamental Rights protect citizens by ensuring their basic human rights are not violated by the state. They provide a framework for a fair and just society where individuals can live with dignity and freedom.

Fundamental Rights of India were included from the Magna Carta of England, the declaration of Rights of Man and Citizens (France), and the U.S. bill of rights. Indian Constitution Articles 12-35 are those rights that protect an individual from the atrocities of the State and these rights are protected and guaranteed by the constitution. These rights are regarded as ‘Fundamental‘ because they are most essential for the attainment of certain basic liberties and freedom in order to live a dignified life and the Constitutional Rights in India also allow an individual to move directly to the Supreme Court for the reinforcement of his/her fundamental right as and when they are violated or restricted.