Phase IFoundation
Background
Overview
Understanding the constitutional limits on legislative power, the role of the judiciary in upholding fundamental rights, and the principles of non-arbitrariness in governance and policy-making is crucial for UPSC aspirants.
Article 14 of the Indian Constitution guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws, prohibiting arbitrary discrimination. This principle extends to economic legislation, requiring that any classification made by law must be based on an 'intelligible differentia' and have a 'rational nexus' to the objective sought to be achieved, ensuring that economic policies do not create arbitrary hierarchies or disadvantage specific groups without just cause.