Constitution

What are my Fundamental Rights?

Fundamental Rights are the basic rights in Part III of the Constitution. There are six groups: equality, freedom, protection from exploitation, freedom of religion, cultural and educational rights, and the right to go to court to enforce them. They mainly protect you against the government and its bodies.

Can anyone discriminate against me because of my caste, religion or gender?

Not the government — it cannot treat you differently because of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth. Untouchability is a crime for everyone, and shops, hotels and public places cannot turn you away on these grounds. Other private discrimination is illegal only where a specific law covers it.

Can I be arrested for a social media post criticising the government?

Criticising the government or its leaders is free speech, not a crime. A post is an offence only if it breaks a specific law — like inciting violence, spreading hatred between groups, defamation or obscenity. Even then, for most such offences police usually send a notice before any arrest.

What does Article 21 (right to life and liberty) cover?

No person can lose their life or personal liberty except through a procedure set by law, and that procedure must be fair and reasonable. Courts have read Article 21 to include the right to live with dignity, livelihood, privacy, emergency medical care, a speedy trial and free legal aid.

My rights were violated. How do I go to the High Court or Supreme Court?

File a writ petition in the High Court (Article 226) or the Supreme Court (Article 32). The court can order a government body to stop an illegal act, do its duty, or free someone held illegally. The High Court is usually the first stop — it is nearer and its powers are wider.

How do I file an RTI application?

Write your questions to the Public Information Officer (PIO) of the government office, pay the fee (₹10 for Central Government offices) and submit it by post, in person or online. No reason is needed. The reply is due within 30 days, or 48 hours if someone's life or liberty is at stake.

Is education a fundamental right? Can a private school refuse my child?

Yes — every child aged 6 to 14 has a fundamental right to free and compulsory education (Article 21A). Most private unaided schools must keep at least 25% of entry-class seats free for children from weaker and disadvantaged groups. No school can take a donation or test the child or parents for admission.

Is privacy a fundamental right? Can anyone force me to give Aadhaar?

Yes, privacy is a fundamental right (Supreme Court, 2017). Aadhaar can be required for government subsidies and benefits, and for linking with PAN. But a bank, mobile company or school cannot insist on Aadhaar — you can usually give another valid ID instead.

My name is missing from the voter list. Can I still vote?

No. You can vote only if your name is on the electoral roll for your area — a voter ID card alone is not enough. Apply with Form 6 well before the election. If your name is on the list, you can vote with another approved photo ID even without a voter ID card.

Is child labour illegal? What should I do if I see it?

Yes. No child under 14 can be employed in any work, including as domestic help or in shops and dhabas. Teenagers aged 14–18 cannot work in hazardous jobs like mines or with explosives. If you see child labour, call 1098 or 112, or report it on the PENCiL portal.