Daily Current Affairs Quiz: February 03, 2026

Article 14 embodies substantive equality, not absolute or mechanical equality. It permits the State to classify individuals or groups for differential treatment, provided the classification is based on an intelligible differentia and has a rational nexus with the objective sought to be achieved. This ensures fairness while preventing arbitrariness in State action.

Statement 1 is incorrect: Article 29 protects the interests of any section of citizens having a distinct language, script, or culture. It is not limited only to linguistic minorities.

Statement 2 is correct: Article 30 specifically grants religious and linguistic minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.

The Indian model of secularism does not follow a strict separation between State and religion. Instead, it is based on equal respect for all religions, while allowing the State to intervene in religious practices to ensure social reform, public order, morality, and fundamental rights. This approach balances religious freedom with constitutional values.

The doctrine of equality before law under Article 14 primarily acts as a check on arbitrary executive action. It ensures that the executive applies laws uniformly, without discrimination or favoritism, and does not exercise power in a capricious or unequal manner, thereby upholding the rule of law and fairness in governance.

Statement 1 is correct: The Constitution permits the State to restrict religious practices in the interests of public order, morality, and health, as expressly provided under Article 25.

Statement 2 is incorrect: Not every practice claimed to be religious is constitutionally protected; only those considered essential religious practices receive protection under Article 25.