Article 14 and Article 21

Article 14 and Article 21 are two fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution of India. Here's a concise explanation of both:

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Article 14 – Right to Equality

Text:

“The State shall not deny to any person equality before the law or the equal protection of the laws within the territory of India.”

Key Points:

Guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of laws.

Applies to all persons (citizens and non-citizens alike).

Prohibits discrimination by the State.

Allows reasonable classification but forbids class legislation (i.e., no arbitrary classifications).

Examples of Use:

Striking down laws or policies that arbitrarily favor or exclude a group.

Challenging discriminatory practices in recruitment, education, or taxation.

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Article 21 – Right to Life and Personal Liberty

Text:

“No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law.”

Key Points:

Guarantees life and personal liberty.

Applicable to citizens and non-citizens.

Expanded by judiciary to include:

Right to privacy

Right to livelihood

Right to health and shelter

Right to clean environment

Right to die with dignity (passive euthanasia)

Right to legal aid, etc.

Landmark Case:

Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978): Expanded the scope of Article 21, stating that the "procedure" must be just, fair, and reasonable.

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