One of the characteristic features of the Indian Constitution has been the guarantee of some fundamental rights to the citizens of India. That is to say, the government of India cannot pass an act that violates or restricts the fundamental rights in any way. Further, one may seek protection of the Court for the vindication of the fundamental rights. The Fundamental Rights guaranteed by the Constitution of India include: a. Right to Equality b. Right to Freedom c. Right against Exploitation. d. Right to Freedom of religion e. Cultural and Educational Rights and f. Right to Consiitriional Remedies.
a. Right to Equality :
This ensures equality before law.
There shall not be any discrimination between man and man on grounds of caste, creed, religion or sex. Untouchability has been abolished and is a punishable offence.
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b. Right to Freedom :
Right to freedom guaranteed by the Constitution includes right to freedom of speech, to assemble peacefully without arms to form associations or unions, to move freely throughout the territory of India, freedom from imprisonment except for breach of law etc.
c. Right against Exploitation:
Forced labour, traffic in human beings, employment of children below fourteen years of age in factories, etc. have been prohibited.
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d. Right to Freedom of Religion:
Practice and propagation of religion have been guaranteed by our Constitution. But these rights are to be used as may not offend the similar rights of the other citizens.
e. Cultural and Educational Rights:
Any section of the citizens will have the right to protection of their language, script, culture, etc. Minorities will have the freedom to establish and administer educational institutions.
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f. Right to Constitutional Remedies :
One may approach the superme Court for the protection and vindication of the Fundamental Rights. The Fundamental Rights, however, may be kept in abeyance by the President of India in times of emergency.