Report No. 66

XI. Constitutional Provisions

3.39. Articles 15-16 of the Constitution.-

The Constitution of India, in Articles 15 and 16, makes a clean sweep of all discrimination against women on the ground of sex. Article 15 is of particular importance, and provides as follows:-

"15. (1) The State shall not discriminate against any citizen on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex, place of birth or any of them.

(2) Nothing in this Article shall prevent the State from making any special provision for women and children."

This provision has been invoked more than once before the courts.