The question asks about the significant doctrine propounded by the Supreme Court in the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973) concerning Parliament's power to amend the Constitution, especially Fundamental Rights. We need to identify the correct legal doctrine associated with this landmark judgment.
Correct Option: C) The doctrine of Basic Structure, holding that Parliament cannot alter the basic structure of the Constitution
This option accurately describes the core principle established in the Kesavananda Bharati case, which limited Parliament's amending power by introducing the concept of the 'basic structure' of the Constitution. This doctrine ensures the preservation of the fundamental identity and spirit of the Constitution.
The question asks about the specific guarantee provided by Article 14 of the Indian Constitution. To answer this, one needs to recall the fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution, particularly those related to equality.
Correct Option: D) Equality before the law and equal protection of the laws within the territory of India
This option directly quotes or accurately describes the essence of Article 14 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to equality to every person.
The question asks about the origin of the concept of 'equality before law' as enshrined in Article 14 of the Indian Constitution. This requires knowledge of the historical and philosophical influences on the Indian Constitution, particularly regarding fundamental rights.
B) The British concept of Rule of Law — The principle of 'equality before law' is a cornerstone of the British Rule of Law, which emphasizes that no one is above the law and all are subject to the same ordinary law of the land. This concept was famously articulated by A.V. Dicey and significantly influenced the drafting of the Indian Constitution.
The question pertains to Article 14 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws. While it prohibits discrimination, it allows for 'reasonable classification'. This classification must meet specific criteria to be constitutionally valid. We need to identify the correct criterion from the given options.
B) Has a rational nexus (relation) with the object sought to be achieved by the law
This option accurately describes the second essential condition for a classification to be deemed 'reasonable' under Article 14. The classification must not only be based on an intelligible differentia but also have a logical and relevant connection to the purpose or objective of the law.
The question asks about the specific grounds on which discrimination by the State is prohibited under Article 15 of the Indian Constitution. To answer this, one needs to recall the exact wording and scope of Article 15.
Correct Option: A) Religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth
This option accurately lists all the grounds explicitly mentioned in Article 15(1) of the Indian Constitution, which prohibits discrimination by the State against any citizen on these specific bases.
The question asks about the specific categories of persons for whom Article 15(3) of the Indian Constitution empowers the State to make special provisions. This requires knowledge of the fundamental rights, particularly Article 15, which deals with prohibition of discrimination.
Correct Option: A) Women and children — Article 15(3) explicitly states that nothing in the article shall prevent the State from making any special provision for women and children. This is a crucial exception to the general rule of non-discrimination, allowing for affirmative action for these vulnerable groups.