Equality Before Law Essay

INTRODUCTION:

“EQUALITY” is the general principle stated in Article 14 which states equality before law or the equal protection of laws and also prohibits unreasonable discrimination between the persons. It is recognized as Fundamental Right in the Constitution of India. There should be no inequality on any basis. The first expression ‘equality before law’ is of English origin and the second expression ‘equal protection of laws’ has been taken from the American Constitution. Though both the expression may seem to be identical, they do not convey the same meaning. The ‘equality before law’ is a somewhat negative concept implying the absence of any special privilege and liabilities in favor of the individuals and ‘equal protection of law’ is a more positive concept implying equality of treatment in equal circumstances. However, the common idea to both the expression is that of equal justice. The guarantee of equal protection applies to both substantial as well as procedural law.

Always there has been a soft corner towards women. In the middle of the twentieth century, there was a very strong feminist movement throwing light on the mayhem suffered by the woman on day-to-day basis and so the need was felt to make amendments in the prevailing laws so that women can also get equal with men. But the legislations which were passed for the empowerment of women ultimately turned out to be the curse for the men and they started becoming victimized for the same. It should be recognized that the offence committed by male can also be committed by a woman. For some offences only a man is being punished. And there are many unbiased laws prevailing in the country regarding the same. The laws itself violates the Article 14 of the