Question

Which of the following Article of the Constitution of India guarantees equality of opportunity for all citizens in matters relating to employment and appointment to any office under the State?

• A. Article 16 (1)
• B. Article 22 (1)
• C. Article 16 (4)
• D. Article 20 (1)

Hint:

Remember that Article 14 provides a general right to equality, Article 15 prohibits discrimination on specific grounds, and Article 16 specifically deals with equality of opportunity in public employment.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Clarification of Inquiry:
The request is to pinpoint the specific article and clause within the Indian Constitution that enshrines the fundamental right to equal opportunities in public sector employment.

Step 2: Elaboration:


Article 16 (1): This sub-section unequivocally declares that "all citizens shall have equality of opportunity in matters of employment or appointment to any office under the State." This constitutes the direct mandate for this right.

Article 22 (1): This article safeguards individuals against arrest and detention and is unrelated to employment matters.

Article 16 (4): This sub-section empowers the State to implement reservations for disadvantaged social groups. It functions as an exception to the overarching principle of equality stipulated in Article 16(1), rather than being the foundational source of that principle.

Article 20 (1): This article provides protection against retrospective criminal legislation and has no bearing on employment.

Step 3: Conclusive Determination:
Article 16(1) stands as the precise constitutional provision that guarantees equality of opportunity concerning public employment.