Equality of opportunity in employment has been guaranteed through which article of the Indian Constitution ?

Correct option is C

Article 16 of the Indian Constitution guarantees equality of opportunity in employment under the state. Specifically, it ensures that no citizen shall be discriminated against in matters relating to employment or office under the state on the grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, descent, place of birth, or any of them. The article provides the foundation for a fair and equitable recruitment process to public services, ensuring that employment decisions are based on merit rather than discriminatory factors.

Key Provisions of Article 16:

1. Equality of Opportunity: Article 16 ensures that every citizen has an equal chance of being employed in any government job or position.

2. Non-Discrimination: It prohibits discrimination based on caste, sex, religion, race, or place of birth in state employment.

3. Exceptions: The article allows for special provisions to be made for reservations in favor of backward classes or other underprivileged groups as part of affirmative action.

Information Booster :

Fundamental Rights are a set of basic human rights enshrined in the Constitution of India to ensure the protection of individual freedoms and liberties against any arbitrary actions by the state. These rights are considered essential for the development of the individual's personality, dignity, and freedom. They are designed to promote equality, justice, and liberty in Indian society.

Key Features of Fundamental Rights:

1. Guaranteed by the Constitution: Fundamental Rights are guaranteed under Part III (Articles 12 to 35) of the Indian Constitution. These rights apply to all citizens and, in some cases, to non-citizens as well.

2. Justiciable: These rights are justiciable, meaning individuals can approach courts if they believe their rights have been violated. The courts can issue writs like Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Prohibition, Certiorari, and Quo Warranto to protect these rights.

3. Limitations: While Fundamental Rights are vital, they are not absolute. The Constitution allows reasonable restrictions on the exercise of certain rights, especially in the interest of national security, public order, morality, etc.

Categories of Fundamental Rights:

1. Right to Equality (Articles 14 to 18):

   • Article 14 guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws.

   • Article 15 prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.

   • Article 16 ensures equality of opportunity in public employment.

   • Article 17 abolishes untouchability and forbids its practice.

   • Article 18 abolishes titles (except military and academic).

2. Right to Freedom (Articles 19 to 22):

   • Article 19 guarantees the freedom of speech and expression, assembly, association, movement, residence, and profession.

   • Article 20 protects individuals against arbitrary arrest, detention, and ex post facto laws.

   • Article 21 guarantees protection of life and personal liberty, which is one of the most significant rights in India.

   • Article 22 protects individuals from arbitrary detention and provides rights related to arrest and detention.

3. Right Against Exploitation (Articles 23 and 24):

   • Article 23 prohibits human trafficking, forced labor, and child labor.

   • Article 24 prohibits the employment of children below 14 years in factories and hazardous conditions.

4. Right to Freedom of Religion (Articles 25 to 28):

   • Article 25 ensures the freedom of conscience and the right to freely profess, practice, and propagate religion.

   • Article 26 guarantees the right to manage religious affairs.

   • Article 27 ensures that no person shall be compelled to pay taxes for promoting or maintaining any religion.

   • Article 28 prohibits religious instruction in government educational institutions.

5. Cultural and Educational Rights (Articles 29 and 30):

   • Article 29 protects the rights of minorities to conserve their culture, language, and script.

   • Article 30 guarantees the right of minorities to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.

6. Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32):

   • Article 32 is known as the "heart and soul" of the Constitution, as it provides individuals the right to approach the Supreme Court for the enforcement of Fundamental Rights. It gives the Court the power to issue writs to protect these rights.