Understanding the Definition of 'State' in the Indian Constitution
The question asks to identify the specific provision within the Indian Constitution that provides the definition of 'State'. This definition is crucial as it determines the scope of application for various fundamental rights guaranteed under Part III of the Constitution.
Article 12: Defining the 'State'
Article 12 of the Indian Constitution explicitly defines the term 'State'. This definition is foundational for understanding the limitations imposed on governmental powers and the extent of fundamental rights available to citizens.
According to Article 12, the term 'State' includes:
- The Government and Parliament of India (i.e., the Union executive and legislature).
- The Government and the Legislature of each State (i.e., the State executive and legislature).
- All local or other authorities within the territory of India or under the control of the Government of India.
This broad definition ensures that various entities, beyond just the central and state governments, are bound by constitutional provisions, particularly those related to fundamental rights.
Other Constitutional Articles Mentioned
Let's briefly look at the other options to understand why they are not the correct answer for the definition of 'State':
- Article 14: This article guarantees the Right to Equality, stating that the State shall not deny any person equality before the law or the equal protection of the laws within the territory of India. While it uses the term 'State', it doesn't define it.
- Article 13: This article declares that laws inconsistent with or in derogation of the fundamental rights shall be void. It empowers the judiciary to review laws, but it does not define the 'State'.
- Article 15: This article prohibits discrimination by the State against any citizen on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. Like Article 14, it involves the 'State' but doesn't define it.
Therefore, the constitutional provision specifically dedicated to defining the 'State' is Article 12.
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