Which of the following Articles of the Indian Constitution empowers the State to make any special provision for the advancement of scheduled castes?

The correct answer is 'Article 15(4)'

Key Points

• Article 15(4) of the Indian Constitution:
  • Article 15(4) specifically empowers the State to make special provisions for the advancement of socially and educationally backward classes of citizens, including Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).
  • This clause was added to the Constitution through the First Amendment Act, 1951, in response to judicial decisions that had restricted affirmative actions for backward classes.
  • The provision allows for reservations in educational institutions, employment, and other measures aimed at uplifting the backward communities.
  • The inclusion of Article 15(4) reflects the commitment of the Indian Constitution to achieve social justice and equality for marginalized sections of society.

Additional Information

• Brief Overview of Other Options:
  • Article 15(2):
    • This clause prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth concerning access to public places like shops, hotels, and places of public entertainment.
    • It does not deal with special provisions for Scheduled Castes or other backward classes, making it irrelevant to the question.
  • Article 15(3):
    • Article 15(3) allows the State to make special provisions for women and children.
    • Though it permits affirmative action, it is not related to Scheduled Castes and hence incorrect in this context.
  • Article 15(1):
    • This clause prohibits the State from discriminating against any citizen based on religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
    • It is a general anti-discrimination provision and does not empower the State to make special provisions for Scheduled Castes.
• Historical Context:
  • The inclusion of Article 15(4) in the Constitution was driven by the need to address inequality and ensure that disadvantaged groups have equal opportunities in education and employment.
  • The First Amendment Act was a landmark development that paved the way for affirmative action policies in India.