Fundamental Rights

Fundamental rights are the basic human rights enshrined in the Constitution that protect citizens against any arbitrary state action.

Introduction to Fundamental Rights

Fundamental rights are essential rights that every citizen has, regardless of race, place of birth, religion, caste, creed, or gender. These rights are fundamental to human development and are protected by the Constitution.

Right to Equality (Articles 14-18)

Equality before law
Prohibition of discrimination
Equality of opportunity
Abolition of untouchability
Abolition of titles

Right to Freedom (Articles 19-22)

Freedom of speech and expression
Freedom of assembly
Freedom of association
Freedom of movement
Freedom of residence
Freedom of profession

Right against Exploitation (Articles 23-24)

Prohibition of trafficking
Prohibition of forced labor
Prohibition of child labor

Right to Freedom of Religion (Articles 25-28)

Freedom of conscience
Freedom to practice religion
Freedom to manage religious affairs
Freedom from religious taxation

Cultural and Educational Rights (Articles 29-30)

Protection of minority interests
Right to establish educational institutions
Right to preserve culture

Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32)

Right to approach Supreme Court
Writs for enforcement of rights
Legal remedies

Restrictions on Fundamental Rights

While fundamental rights are essential, they are not absolute. The Constitution provides for reasonable restrictions that can be imposed on these rights in the interest of:

Sovereignty and integrity of India
Security of the State
Friendly relations with foreign States
Public order
Decency or morality
Contempt of court
Defamation
Incitement to an offence

Important Supreme Court Judgments

Case Name	Year	Key Principle
Kesavananda Bharati Case	1973	Basic Structure Doctrine
Maneka Gandhi Case	1978	Right to Life includes Right to Live with Dignity
Vishaka Case	1997	Sexual Harassment at Workplace Guidelines