Special provisions for women and children
Also called: Article 15(3) · Topic: Fundamental Rights and Constitutional Remedies · NCERT: Class 11, Ch 2 "Rights in the Indian Constitution"
Meaning
Article 15(1) bars the State from discriminating against citizens only on grounds such as sex. Article 15(3) adds that the State may still make special provisions for women and children. Treating them more favourably is not forbidden discrimination, because it helps groups that have long been held back. Begum Aizaz Rasul told the Constituent Assembly on 22 November 1949 that equality for women was India's "rightful heritage".
Example
The State has reserved seats for women in local bodies such as panchayats and municipalities. Article 15(3) supports this kind of provision.
Don't confuse with
- Art. 15(4): this clause covers socially and educationally backward classes, SCs and STs. Article 15(3) covers women and children.
Related concepts
- Prohibition of discrimination
- Special provisions for backward classes
- Equality of opportunity in public employment
- Residence requirement in public employment
- C.B. Muthamma case
- Untouchability
- Abolition of titles
- Balaji Raghavan case