The right to "Equality of opportunity in public employment" is related to which of the following articles of the Indian Constitution?

The correct answer is Article 16.

Key Points

• Article 16 of the Indian Constitution ensures equality of opportunity in matters of public employment.
• It prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, descent, place of birth, or residence.
• Article 16(1) and 16(2) specifically guarantee equal opportunity for all citizens in matters relating to employment or appointment to any office under the State.
• The article also includes provisions for the reservation of posts in favor of any backward class of citizens which, in the opinion of the State, is not adequately represented in the services under the State.
• It is part of the Fundamental Rights enshrined in the Indian Constitution, ensuring non-discriminatory access to public employment.

Additional Information

• Fundamental Rights:
  • They are basic human rights guaranteed by the Constitution of India to all citizens.
  • They are enforceable by the courts, subject to specific restrictions.
  • The Fundamental Rights are covered in Part III of the Indian Constitution.
  • They include rights such as the right to equality, right to freedom, right against exploitation, right to freedom of religion, cultural and educational rights, and right to constitutional remedies.
• Article 14:
  • It guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws within the territory of India.
  • It is the cornerstone of the right to equality and ensures that no person is denied equality before the law.
• Article 15:
  • It prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
  • It allows the State to make special provisions for women, children, and socially and educationally backward classes of citizens or for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
• Article 17:
  • It abolishes "untouchability" and forbids its practice in any form.
  • The enforcement of any disability arising out of untouchability is an offense punishable by law.