Which of the following rights was described by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar as the "heart and soul of the Constitution"?

The correct answer is Right to constitutional remedies.

Key Points

• Right to constitutional remedies
• • Article 32 is termed a "fundamental right to enforce fundamental rights", making it unique.
• • Ambedkar argued that without this right, the Constitution would be reduced to a mere set of unenforceable directives.
• • The Supreme Court and High Courts (via Article 226) act as guardians of citizens’ rights through this provision.
• • Empowers courts to issue writs to hold authorities accountable for rights violations.
• • Reflects the Constitution’s commitment to justice and the rule of law, justifying Ambedkar’s description.

Additional Information

• Right to freedom of religion
  • • Enshrined in Articles 25–28, it guarantees individuals the freedom to practice, profess, and propagate any religion.
  • • Ensures secularism by prohibiting state interference in religious matters, except on grounds of public order, morality, or health.
  • • Critical for India’s religious diversity but not termed the "heart and soul" by Ambedkar.
  • • Allows restrictions on practices like forced conversions or those violating human dignity (e.g., untouchability).
  • • Balances religious freedom with societal welfare but relies on remedies (Article 32) for enforcement.
• Right to equality
  • • Encompasses Articles 14–18, ensuring equality before the law and prohibiting discrimination based on religion, caste, race, sex, or place of birth.
  • • Abolishes untouchability (Article 17) and titles (Article 18) to promote social justice.
  • • Key to India’s democratic ethos but not declared the Constitution’s "heart and soul" by Ambedkar.
  • • Includes affirmative action (reservations) for marginalized communities under Article 16(4).
  • • While foundational, its effectiveness depends on judicial remedies under Article 32.
• Right to freedom
  • • Covered under Articles 19–22, it includes freedoms of speech, assembly, movement, residence, and profession.
  • • Subject to reasonable restrictions for national security, public order, and morality.
  • • Article 22 safeguards against arbitrary arrest and detention, ensuring due process.
  • • Essential for democratic participation but enforceable only through constitutional remedies (Article 32).
  • • Ambedkar acknowledged its importance but highlighted remedies as the lifeline for all freedoms.