Article 16 guarantees equality of opportunity for all citizens in matters of public employment, prohibiting discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, descent, place of birth, or residence.
- Guarantees Equal Opportunity: It ensures that all citizens have equal opportunities in matters relating to employment or appointment to any office under the State.
- Prohibits Discrimination: It prohibits discrimination in public employment.
- Allows for Reservations: The article also allows the state to make provisions for the reservation of appointments or posts for backward classes of citizens.
- Exceptions and Nuances:
- Residency Requirements: Parliament can prescribe residency requirements for certain jobs under Article 16(3).
- Backward Classes: Article 16(4) allows for reservations for backward classes who are not adequately represented in state services.
- Religious Institutions: Article 16(5) allows for specific criteria in the office-bearers of religious or denominational institutions.
- Importance: Article 16 is a fundamental right that ensures fairness and equal opportunity in public employment, contributing to the upliftment of marginalized and backward sections of society.
Source: Indian Polity by M Laxmikanth