How Many Fundamental Rights Are Right in the Indian Constitution?

India's Constitution is a cornerstone of its democratic framework, providing a comprehensive framework for the rights and liberties of its citizens. Initially, the Constitution enshrined seven fundamental rights, but one of these rights, the Right to Property, was removed through the 44th Constitutional Amendment in 1978. This amendment resulted in the current set of six fundamental rights that form the bedrock of individual liberty and equality.

Seven Fundamental Rights in the Original Constitution

When the Indian Constitution was first adopted in 1950, it recognized seven fundamental rights. These rights were enshrined in Part III of the Constitution, specifically Articles 12 to 35. The seven fundamental rights included:

Right to Equality (Articles 14-18) Right to Freedom (Articles 19-22) Right against Exploitation (Articles 23-24) Right to Freedom of Religion (Articles 25-28) Right to Education and Culture (Articles 29-30) Right to Property (Articles 31) Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32)

These rights were designed to protect the individual from various forms of discrimination, state interference, and ensure civil liberties and state-backed protections.

The Removal of the Right to Property

One of the most significant changes in the Indian Constitution came through the 44th Constitutional Amendment in 1978, when the Right to Property was removed as a fundamental right. This amendment was driven by a need to provide more direct state intervention to mitigate socio-economic inequalities and promote national development. The government argued that the Right to Property was bogging down agricultural and industrial growth.

Current Six Fundamental Rights

With the removal of the Right to Property, the Indian Constitution currently comprises six fundamental rights. These rights are essential for ensuring civil liberties and equality, reflecting the balance between individual freedoms and state responsibilities.

Right to Equality (Articles 14-18) Right to Freedom (Articles 19-22) Right against Exploitation (Articles 23-24) Right to Freedom of Religion (Articles 25-28) Right to Education and Culture (Articles 29-30) Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32)

Implications and Future Developments

The removal of the Right to Property has had a significant impact on economic and legal contexts. It has allowed the government greater freedom to intervene in economic matters, enhancing the state's ability to enforce land reforms and other measures aimed at social welfare.

However, this has not ended the debate on fundamental rights. There are ongoing discussions and legal challenges around the scope and interpretation of the remaining fundamental rights, reflecting the dynamic nature of the Indian legal system.

Moreover, as the socio-economic landscape continues to evolve, there might be further amendments or enhancements to the Constitution. This could include newer rights related to digital citizenship, data privacy, and other contemporary issues that have emerged in the socio-economic environment.