Article 16 of the Indian Constitution specifically ensures equality of opportunity in matters of 'and _________ .

Key Points

• Article 16 of the Indian Constitution provides for equality of opportunity for all citizens in matters relating to employment or appointment to any office under the State.
• No citizen can be discriminated against or be ineligible for any employment or office under the State on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex, descent, place of birth, residence, or any of them.
• Article 16 ensures that there is no discrimination in public employment and that all citizens have equal access to government jobs.
• It is a specific application of the broader principle of equality before the law as enunciated in Article 14 and the principle of non-discrimination as provided in Article 15.

Additional Information

• Indian Constitution
  • The Constitution of India is the supreme law of India. It lays down the framework that defines the fundamental political principles, establishes the structure, procedures, powers, and duties of government institutions, and sets out fundamental rights, directive principles, and the duties of citizens.
  • It is the longest written constitution of any country on earth, containing 448 articles in 25 parts, 12 schedules, and 104 amendments.
• Article 14
  • Article 14 of the Indian Constitution states that ""the State shall not deny to any person equality before the law or the equal protection of the laws within the territory of India.""
  • This implies that every citizen, regardless of their status, is equal before the law and has equal protection under the law.
• Article 15
  • Article 15 prohibits discrimination on the grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
  • It further allows the State to make special provisions for women, children, and backward classes.
• Public Employment
  • Public employment refers to jobs provided by the government and its various agencies.
  • It is crucial for ensuring fair opportunities and representation of all sections of society in government services.