Article 14 of the Indian Constitution guarantees that “the State shall not deny to any person equality before the law or the equal protection of the laws within the territory of India.” This fundamental right forms the cornerstone of the right to equality and aims to ensure non-discrimination and equal treatment under similar circumstances. However, Article 14 does not mean absolute equality, and allows for reasonable classification.

Scope of Article 14:
1. Applies to All Persons – Both citizens and non-citizens are protected.
2. Equality Before Law – Everyone is equal in the eyes of the law.
3. Equal Protection of Laws – Similar people in similar situations must be treated equally.
4. Allows Reasonable Classification – Law can treat people differently if:
- There is a clear basis (intelligible differentia)
- The classification is related to the law’s objective

5. No Arbitrariness – Any arbitrary or unfair action by the State violates Article 14.

Limitations of Article 14:
1. Reasonable classification is allowed – Unequal treatment can be legal if justified.
2. Not an absolute right – Can be restricted for public welfare or special protection (like reservations).
3. Judicial interpretation required – Courts decide what is fair and unfair under Article 14.

Landmark Judgements:
1. State of West Bengal v. Anwar Ali Sarkar (1952): Introduced the concept of reasonable classification, stating that arbitrary laws violate Article 14.

2. Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978): Held that Article 14, 19, and 21 are interlinked, and any law affecting personal liberty must be just, fair, and non-arbitrary.

3. Ajay Hasia v. Khalid Mujib (1981): Reaffirmed that arbitrary state action violates Article 14, even when there is no explicit discrimination.