Question

What does the Constitution say with regard to equality? Why do you think it is important for all people to be equal?

Answer 1

Hint: The Constitution of India is considered to be the supreme law of the country. There were 395 articles divided into 22 parts, but at present, there are 450 articles divided into 25 parts.

Complete Answer: The Constitution declares that all the citizens of India should be equal in the eyes of the law as the law provides equal protection to all. The fundamental rights included in the Indian Constitution are classified into six main heads. Right to equality does not mean absolute equality, nor does it imply that all should be entitled to the identity of treatment and income. Right to Equality of the Constitution is the cornerstone of democracy. The Right to Equality is mainly covered by Articles 14 to 18 of the Constitution. The right to equality includes:
a. Article 14 guarantees equality in the eyes of law.
b. Article 15 signifies that there can be no discrimination on the basis of caste, creed, sex, colour, and birthplace against any citizen. There are two exceptions in this article; one is that the state can make special provisions for women and children and second, special provisions can be made for the upliftment of the socially backward sections of society.
c. Article 16 specifies that all citizens are equal in terms of holding any governmental office.
d. Article 17 provides that untouchability is abolished and its practice in any form is forbidden by law.
e. Articles 18 abolishes all titles except those of academic or military distinction.

It is important for all to be equal because
-A country cannot develop or progress in the absence of equality. Equality for all helps in achieving a nation’s aim to improve the quality of life and opportunities for all its citizens across the country.
-Equality also helps in the improvement of an individual's personality and performance in delivering good quality public services. It also helps in the development of an individual’s self-esteem.

Note: The positive concept of equality is that special privileges of all kinds should be abolished. There should be no difference between any two people on the grounds of birth, caste, wealth, class, creed, religion, language etc.