Skip to main content

Constitution of India

Section 14

Equality before law

Quick Answer Reference: Section 14 Constitution

  • Provision: Section 14 of Constitution
  • Act: Constitution of India
  • Classification: Statute
  • Jurisdiction: India
  • Summary: This section ensures that everyone in India is treated equally under the law and receives equal protection of the laws. It means that the government cannot discriminate against anyone based on their background, status, or any other factor.
Statutory Content

What does Section 14 of Constitution say?

The State shall not deny to any person equality before the law or the equal protection of the laws within the territory of India.

Indian StandardSection 14, Constitution of India
Bluebook (21st ed.)Constitution of India, § 14 (India)
Court Pleading StandardSection 14 of the Constitution of India
Canonical Web linkhttps://nyaya.cloud/acts/constitution-of-india/14

Embed this Section Card

Want to display this Section explanation card on your website? Copy and paste the HTML code below:

Source: Gazette of India (Official Publication)Verify egazette.gov.in ↗
✓ VERIFIED FOR LEGAL ACCURACYReviewed & certified by Advocate Arjun Choudhury (Bar Council ID: D/8734/2015).
AI Educational GuideAI-generated explanation for educational and research purposes. Original statutory text is preserved exactly.
Section Meaning & Purpose

What does Section 14 of Constitution mean?

Plain English Explanation

This section ensures that everyone in India is treated equally under the law and receives equal protection of the laws. It means that the government cannot discriminate against anyone based on their background, status, or any other factor.

Practical Interpretation

In practical terms, this section means that the government must treat all citizens equally and without bias. For example, if a law is passed that affects one group of people more than another, the government must ensure that the law is fair and just for everyone.

Core Legal Purpose

The core purpose of this section is to ensure that the government treats all citizens equally and without bias. It aims to prevent discrimination and ensure that everyone is protected under the law.

Key Legal Elements
  • The State shall not deny to any person equality before the law.
  • The State shall not deny to any person the equal protection of the laws within the territory of India.
  • There is no specific legal test or threshold standard mentioned in this section.
  • There are no key exceptions or limitations mentioned in this section.
Practical Example

Practical Example of Section 14 Constitution

Rajesh, a Hindu, and Priya, a Muslim, are both arrested for the same crime. Under Section 14 of the Constitution, the government must treat them equally and without bias. The court must ensure that the law is applied fairly to both Rajesh and Priya, and that they receive equal protection under the law.

Common Questions (FAQ)

Frequently Asked Questions about Section 14 Constitution

Q: What is the punishment or consequence under Section 14 of the Constitution?

This section is a procedural provision and does not prescribe a penal punishment.

Q: Does this section apply to private individuals or public entities?

This section applies to public entities, including the government and its agencies.

Q: Is an offence under this section bailable or cognizable?

This section is a procedural provision and does not prescribe a penal punishment, so it is not applicable to bailable or cognizable offenses.

People Also Ask (PAA)

Common Questions about Section 14 Constitution

What is Section 14 of Constitution?

Section 14 of the Constitution of India (Constitution) defines and regulates "Equality before law". In plain terms: This section ensures that everyone in India is treated equally under the law and receives equal protection of the laws. It means that the government cannot discriminate against anyone based on their background, status, or any other factor.

What are the elements of Section 14 of Constitution?

The essential elements of Section 14 of Constitution are: The State shall not deny to any person equality before the law.; The State shall not deny to any person the equal protection of the laws within the territory of India.; There is no specific legal test or threshold standard mentioned in this section..

Landmark Case Laws

Landmark Judgments under Section 14 Constitution

2017 10 SCC 1

Supreme Court of India

Patnahcucisdb94 High Court (10 8)

2014 8 SCC 273

Supreme Court of India

1978 1 SCC 248

Supreme Court of India

Commonly Cited Alongside

Sections commonly cited alongside Section 14