Fundamental Rights, enshrined in Part III (Articles 12–35) of the Constitution of India, guarantee essential civil and political freedoms to individuals. Often called the Magna Carta of the Indian Constitution, these rights protect citizens against arbitrary state action and form the conscience of India’s democratic framework.

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• Fundamental Rights apply through Articles 12–35 of the Constitution
•  Inspired by US Bill of Rights, French Declaration, European thinkers
•  Legally enforceable; citizens can directly approach Supreme Court
•  Judicial review and writs available under Article 32
•  Some rights only for citizens, others for all persons
• Originally seven rights; Right to Property removed in 1978
•  Six categories: Equality, Freedom, Exploitation, Religion, Culture-Education, Remedies
•  Article 21 expanded to include privacy, clean environment
•  Minority rights protected under Articles 29–30
•  Rights subject to reasonable restrictions, emergencies, amendments