First Recognition of Right to Education

The Right to Education for all was first formally recognised within the framework of Indian law through Article $45$ of the Indian Constitution. This article, part of the Directive Principles of State Policy, originally mandated the State to endeavour to provide, within a period of ten years from the commencement of the Constitution, free and compulsory education for all children until they complete the age of fourteen years.

Analysis of Options

• Article $45$ of the Indian Constitution: This provision represented the initial constitutional directive towards universal education, laying the groundwork for the right. It was the earliest formal recognition within the legal structure.
• Right to Education Act: Enacted in 2009, this Act made education a fundamental right (under Article $21A$) for children aged 6 to 14. While significant, it came much later than the initial recognition in Article $45$.
• Child Rights Act: This is a general term. While specific child rights acts address education, Article $45$ provided the foundational legal recognition within the Indian constitutional context.
• Human Rights Act: This refers to broader human rights legislation. While the right to education is a human right, Article $45$ specifically addressed its recognition within India's legal system.

Conclusion

Therefore, Article $45$ of the Indian Constitution is identified as the law where the Right to Education for all was first recognised.