January 10, 2014

Art.15 prohibits discrimination among citizens on ground of their religions

We forget our constitutional rights so often. One such right is under Art.15. It is about not to be divided on grounds of religions.

But this article is often forgotten or not understood in right sense.

Therefore, many feel as if they are divided by religions. Invisible walls come up among people of different religions.

Many times State, grants special benefits to followers of any particular religion.

When any such relaxation is given on ground a particular religion, it violates right of people of other religions to be treated equally. Art.14.

There could be many reasons behind such actions by a state.

There could be pressure from religion groups. There could be political votes oriented views. Or, there may be data before governments to justify such discrimination.

The State action might be justified.

But nevertheless, each such circular or law weakens unity of people of India, at least a little.

It encourages people to look with enmity against people following other religions who may have been denied such relaxation.

It sometimes increases problem instead of decreasing it. Discrimination of any type is never good. It is against human nature.

Haresh Raichura
1075