How many fundamental rights are there in our country?

In India, there are six fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution. These rights are considered essential for the overall development and well-being of individuals and are enforceable by the courts. The fundamental rights are outlined in Part III (Articles 12 to 35) of the Indian Constitution:

  1. Right to Equality (Articles 14-18):
    • Article 14: Equality before law and equal protection of laws.
    • Article 15: Prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth.
    • Article 16: Equality of opportunity in matters of public employment.
    • Article 17: Abolition of untouchability.
    • Article 18: Abolition of titles except military and academic distinctions.
  2. Right to Freedom (Articles 19-22):
    • Article 19: Protection of certain rights regarding freedom of speech, assembly, association, movement, residence, and profession.
    • Article 20: Protection in respect of conviction for offences.
    • Article 21: Protection of life and personal liberty.
    • Article 21A: Right to education (added by the 86th Amendment Act, 2002).
    • Article 22: Protection against arrest and detention in certain cases.
  3. Right Against Exploitation (Articles 23-24):
    • Article 23: Prohibition of traffic in human beings and forced labour.
    • Article 24: Prohibition of employment of children in factories, etc.
  4. Right to Freedom of Religion (Articles 25-28):
    • Article 25: Freedom of conscience and free profession, practice, and propagation of religion.
    • Article 26: Freedom to manage religious affairs.
    • Article 27: Freedom from payment of taxes for promotion of any particular religion.
    • Article 28: Freedom from attending religious instruction or worship in certain educational institutions.
  5. Cultural and Educational Rights (Articles 29-30):
    • Article 29: Protection of interests of minorities.
    • Article 30: Right of minorities to establish and administer educational institutions.
  6. Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32):
    • Article 32: Right to move the Supreme Court for enforcement of fundamental rights (also known as the ‘Heart and Soul’ of the Indian Constitution).

These fundamental rights collectively aim to ensure equality, justice, liberty, and dignity for all citizens of India.