History of Fundamental Rights
The first demand for fundamental rights came in the form of the Swaraj Bill 1895, subsequently, a rise of demand for fundamental rights was made till the Constitution makers made it. The government of India Act, 1935, contained no affirmation of Fundamental rights. Both the Simon Commission and the joint parliamentary committee were opposed to the inclusion of a declaration to that effect in a constitutional document. They held that the declaration of rights would create a grave risk of a large number of laws being declared void and would impose restrictions on the powers of the legislature. Subsequently, framers of the Indian constitution took inspiration from the magna carta of England, the declaration of Rights of Man and citizens (France), and the U.S. bill of Rights. This inclusion of fundamental rights was in accordance with the democratic thought.
Magna Carta of India
Fundamental Rights of the Indian Constitution are also called the Magna Carta of India. These rights are the rights that protect the rights and liberties of the people against the arbitrary nature of the State. These rights are said to be fundamental as they are essentially necessary to live a dignified life with freedom and liberties to the person. If any law curtails the fundamental rights then that law will be declared void.
Fundamental Rights of Indian Citizens
Part-III (Article 12-35) of the Indian Constitution provides Fundamental Rights, these are the basic rights guaranteed by the Constitution of India itself. All the six Fundamental rights are as follows:
- Right to Equality – Article 14-18
- Right to freedom – Article 19-22
- Right against exploitation – Article 23-24
- Right to freedom of Religion – Article 25-28
- Cultural and Educational Rights – Article 29-30
- Right to constitutional Remedies – Article 32-35
Table of Content
- What are Fundamental Rights?
- Fundamental Rights of Indian Citizens
- History of Fundamental Rights
- Constitution Secures Fundamental Rights
- Fundamental Rights: Available to citizens vs non-citizen