The Living Constitution: Your Fundamental Rights and How to Protect Them

“The Constitution is not a mere lawyer’s document, it is a vehicle of Life, and its spirit is always the spirit of the Age.” – Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

The Constitution of India is more than just a legal framework—it is a promise of justice, liberty, and dignity for every citizen. Enshrined within its pages are fundamental rights that protect individuals from arbitrary state action, ensure equality, and uphold personal freedoms. This guide explores the constitutional rights guaranteed to every Indian, their legal significance, and how they impact daily life.

Understanding Fundamental Rights

Fundamental Rights, enshrined in Part III (Articles 12–35) of the Constitution, are essential liberties that the state must protect. These rights are enforceable in court, meaning any violation can be challenged through legal remedies, including writ petitions under Articles 32 (Supreme Court) and 226 (High Courts).

Key Fundamental Rights Under the Indian Constitution

1. Right to Equality (Articles 14–18)

• Article 14 – Guarantees equality before law and equal protection of laws.
• Article 15 – Prohibits discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
• Article 16 – Ensures equal opportunity in public employment.
• Article 17 – Abolishes untouchability (a punishable offense).
• Article 18 – Prohibits state-conferred titles (except military or academic honors).

2. Right to Freedom (Articles 19–22)

• Article 19 – Protects six freedoms: speech & expression, peaceful assembly, forming associations/unions, free movement across India, residence & settlement in any part of India, and profession, occupation, trade, or business.
• Article 20 – Safeguards against retrospective criminal laws, double jeopardy, and self-incrimination.
• Article 21 – Right to life & personal liberty (expanded to include privacy, dignity, clean environment, and more).
• Article 21A – Right to free & compulsory education (6–14 years).
• Article 22 – Protects against arbitrary arrest & detention.

3. Right Against Exploitation (Articles 23–24)

• Article 23 – Prohibits human trafficking & forced labour.
• Article 24 – Bans child labour in hazardous industries.

4. Right to Freedom of Religion (Articles 25–28)

• Article 25 – Freedom of conscience & religion.
• Article 26 – Right to manage religious institutions.
• Articles 27–28 – No compulsory religious taxes or instruction in state-funded schools.

5. Cultural & Educational Rights (Articles 29–30)

• Article 29 – Protects minority languages & cultures.
• Article 30 – Grants minorities the right to establish & administer educational institutions.

6. Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32)

• “The Heart & Soul of the Constitution” (Dr. Ambedkar).
• Allows citizens to directly approach the Supreme Court for enforcement of fundamental rights.
• Five Types of Writs: Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Certiorari, Prohibition, and Quo Warranto.

Other Important Constitutional & Legal Rights

While not part of Part III, these rights are equally crucial:
✔ Right to Property (Article 300A) – Now a legal right, not fundamental.
✔ Right to Information (RTI Act, 2005) – Ensures government transparency.
✔ Right to Privacy (Puttaswamy Case, 2017) – Recognized under Article 21.
✔ Rights of the Accused – Fair trial, legal aid, protection from self-incrimination.
✔ Special Protections for SCs/STs/OBCs – Affirmative action under Articles 15(4), 16(4), and 46.

How to Enforce Your Rights

If your fundamental rights are violated:

1. File a Writ Petition – Supreme Court (Article 32) or High Court (Article 226).
2. Public Interest Litigation (PIL) – Allows social activists to seek justice for marginalized groups.
3. Approach Human Rights Commissions – NHRC, State HRCs, or Minority/SC/ST Commissions.
4. Seek Compensation – Courts can award damages for rights violations.

Why These Rights Matter

✅ Protect against state oppression
✅ Ensure dignity & liberty
✅ Promote social justice & equality
✅ Empower marginalized communities
✅ Hold governments accountable

Landmark Supreme Court Judgments Expanding Rights

🔹 Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978) – Expanded Article 21 to include procedural fairness & personal liberty.
🔹 Justice K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017) – Recognized privacy as a fundamental right.
🔹 Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India (2018) – Decriminalized homosexuality (struck down Section 377).
🔹 Shayara Bano v. Union of India (2017) – Declared instant triple talaq unconstitutional.

Final Thoughts: Know Your Rights, Protect Them

The Constitution is not just a legal document—it is a shield against injustice and a tool for empowerment. Every citizen must be aware of their rights, challenge violations legally, and stand up for others’ rights. If your rights are violated, do not stay silent. The Constitution is on your side.

Need Legal Help?
If you face a violation of your constitutional rights, consult a lawyer specializing in fundamental rights litigation.

B S Makar, Advocate
Punjab & Haryana High Court
📞 +91-9878131111 | 🌐 www.makarlaws.com
Specializing in Civil Rights, Property Disputes & Constitutional Law

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.